My first cyclocross bike (Giant?)

[Henry_G]

Hey everyone!
The time has come for me to enter the cyclo-cross world and taste that mud. On the lookout for solid first bike. Nothing very fancy, but reliable and quality. I'm just above 5'7". Have been sneaking around JensonUSA and have three shortlisted. Share your view, any thoughts on these will be appreciated.

1. Marin Four Corners: https://www.jensonusa.com/Marin-Four-Corners-Bike-2019
   Giant Toughroad SLR GX3: https://www.jensonusa.com/Giant-Toughroad-SLR-GX-3-Bike-2019
   Focus Mares AL 105: https://www.jensonusa.com/Focus-Mares-Al-105-Bike-2018
   

Henry

[Zviedrs]

Hi.
Focus Mares is good value-for-money with such discount, my vote goes for this bike. 105 groupset is class above the Sora/Claris entry level. Good cycling friend once told me that if I want to buy road or cyclo-cross bike, then I better choose something above the entry level because the comfort and performance on the tarmac is key. He's an experienced amateru road cycling racers, so I trust that opinion. Focus is a reliable brand (just like Giant) and the frame looks top notch. Only concern is about the 48cm size, at least @ Jenson. It is right on the line with your height, so if you prefer larger frames, then might have to look for other options. Otherwise go for it!

[Henry_G]

(06-27-2019, 09:41 AM)Zviedrs Wrote:  Hi.
Focus Mares is good value-for-money with such discount, my vote goes for this bike. 105 groupset is class above the Sora/Claris entry level. Good cycling friend once told me that if I want to buy road or cyclo-cross bike, then I better choose something above the entry level because the comfort and performance on the tarmac is key. He's an experienced amateru road cycling racers, so I trust that opinion. Focus is a reliable brand (just like Giant) and the frame looks top notch. Only concern is about the 48cm size, at least @ Jenson. It is right on the line with your height, so if you prefer larger frames, then might have to look for other options. Otherwise go for it!

Thanx for your input. Leaning towards Focus. But have to check few other sites. Will let you know about the purchase once it happens.