Training bike

[Rob W]

I`am thinking of building up a new training bike with similar geometry as my Cervelo RS.I had a look at the Eddy Merckx Gara as it has a similar high front end which seems to suit me.Any one got any opinions on the Gara as a training bike.I` ve been getting neck ache on my Butlers frame down the left side and behind the ear.But not on the Cervelo.

[Dominic]

I'd get the measuring tape out Rob and see what the differences are across the frames and your set ups. You may be able to remedy what is causing the pain if there is something different. If on the other hand you really want a new bike go for it and get it set up the same as the Cervelo.

[Andrew G]

Agree with Dom about taking lots of measurements of the bike you are comfortable on as you may be able to transfer with things like a stem switch to raise the front end, length or height.

The Gara is a good frame however if it's to be purely a training frame them one that takes mudguards would be good. It won't always be nice and sunny and winter training is so much nicer when you don't get wet from underneath even if it's stopped raining. If you don't want a "full mudguards training bike" for some reason then one with stays that will take the better clip-on ones would be okay. The tapered seatstays on the GB don't allow it.