first week riding 2011 stradalli palermo
Hi. I researched many bikes over the last month, trying to get the most (carbon-road) bike for my money. I decided to buy on-line (sorry LBS) and in fact found this palermo on ebay by a private seller for $500 off list from the stradalli site. Luckily it was my frame fit. After the bike and components arrived I had my LBS build it for approx $120 (2hr labor). I pre-purchased mich pro 3 tires and shimano 105 pedals (will up grade to ultegra soon) and braught those along as well. The LBS mechanic had never seen this bike (as it is new this year) but really liked it. It came with SRAM force components- standard crank + 11-28 red cassette and stradalli carbon clinchers (~1420 grams total). My LBS did a fantastic job with the build and fit me for free since I purchased specialized bibs. Total weight with pedals, carbon bottle holders and tape..16.3 lbs.
My first ride was unbelievable. Just incredibly fast and way easier to ride than my previous (now trainer bike) Redline 760 alum, Shim 105, with carbon fork,seatstays and seat tube @ 24.5 lbs!!
I have been out 4 times since (~150 miles) and I can't say enough good things. I did have to return to my LBS for a quick adjustment of the front and rear derailure to improve the shifting, which now works great and I'm glad I have sram force (BTW double tap shifting is easy to adjust to from shimano).
This bike climbs with ease, is very stiff but not harsh to ride at all (unlike my R760). The finish/color is perfect. Maybe alittle bold with all the print for my taste but I got it because I wanted the best bike for the money. I would highly recommend this bike. I will soon order some nuevation or stradalli alum clinchers for training and save the carboney's for future race days..