Having owned a Specialized Globe for over 2 years I decided to upgrade and get a new bike that was a bit lighter and more nimble around the streets Dublin. Having already owned a Globe (and been very impressed) I decided to go for another Specialized. I went for a Specialized Comp 2010, purchased in Cycleways.
Weight and Handling
In comparison to my Globe 08, this bike weighs nothing! I can't tell you the actual weight as it's not the the Specialized website!! Although it has an aluminum frame, it has carbon forks which greatly reduce the weight. This bike handles far better than my Globe. Due to the big decrease in weight overtaking buses (and really long lines of stationary cars) at speed is that little bit safer and easier! The bike just feels really light and responsive in comparison to the Globe.
Speed and Comfort
As already mentioned, it is a fast bike. I'm overtaking and keeping up with the other road bikes that used to breeze by me with disgust :). Flat bars on this bike make for a comfortable short ride, however it must be noted that on long races my shoulders and back were very stiff due to the upright position on the Sirrus. The flat bars also mean a higher position, so you can see crazy pedestrians on an intercept course. Zertz plastic/rubber inserts help to dampen the vibrations from the front and back forks, again making for a more comfortable ride. Please note again that these are not super shock absorbers, on a longer run I had sore hands and a sore arse from vibrations off the rough road!!! This bike is as comfortable as my Globe which surprised me. I was told to expect a bumpier ride due to the thinner wheels, but this is not the case.
Conclusion
Great bike. I'm very pleased with the Sirrus and have had no problems (and only 1 puncture) yet so far! I have been knocking out 120k a week and just completed the 180k Ring of Kerry on this bike, and it has given me no trouble at all. This bike is classed as a hybrid, but in fairness the Comp and Elite Sirrus have the same frames/forks as the entry level Specialized road racers. Apart from "slightly" thicker wheels this is effectively a racer, I would not recommend it for use on anything but paved roads and paths. It is not built for the trail. It's an ideal commuter bike, but for longer distances and racing you can get a better road racer for slightly more than I paid. If you want something that ticks both boxes (but really excels as a commuter bike) than this is your bike!
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