£800 to spend

[Onyer]

Would I notice much difference between the trek & carrera?

What you will notice is the difference between a good carbon frame and an ally frame. I bought a Spesh Roubaix to replace my ally framed bike and the difference was amazing. No longer the numb hands through the road buzz, or the feeling of being shattered after a long ride. I rode LEJOG on the Roubaix last year and I'm glad I made the investment. Since then I have upgraded the components and the wheels to make it an even better bike. There are some good bikes on fleabay or gumtree to be had. I take your point about not trusting carbon frame from fleabay or gumtree, but if they are local to you go and have a look first. Domane is a good bike and come highly recommended.

Good luck with your search and try not to get too confused with all this advice.

 

[nobbyp]

I've just returned from an activity holiday where they had 1.5's as the standard bike - found it comfy and the Tiagra (when properly indexed) was smooth - couldn't really fault it other than I think you can get same quality and spec for less than £800 - I spent £650 on a Focus Culebro - which is normally £800

 

[SteCenturion]

Would I notice much difference between the trek & carrera?

@Thegreatthor
I 'personally' would ignore the Trek & go for the 2914 Cube Agree GTC at Pauls Cycles £799 (£819 at CRC) or the 2014 Giant Defy Composite 3, also Pauls Cycles, both perfect for Sportives etc.
The Cube has 10 speed Shimano Tiagra (plenty good enough) & Fulcrum Racing 77 wheel set & probably the best spec £ for £.
The Giant is very well respected & with a great frame warranty.

I have an aluminium Cube & mate has an Alu Giant Defy, can't fault 'em.

The CAAD8 on the above link, very very good value and a stunning bike.

 

[SteCenturion]

Would I notice much difference between the trek & carrera?

@Thegreatthor
I 'personally' would ignore the Trek & go for the 2914 Cube Agree GTC at Pauls Cycles £799 (£819 at CRC) or the 2014 Giant Defy Composite 3, also Pauls Cycles, both perfect for Sportives etc.
The Cube has 10 speed Shimano Tiagra (plenty good enough) & Fulcrum Racing 77 wheel set & probably the best spec £ for £.
The Giant is very well respected & with a great frame warranty.

I have an aluminium Cube & mate has an Alu Giant Defy, can't fault 'em.

The CAAD8 on the above link, very very good value and a stunning bike.

 

[jamin100]

http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/m7b0s6p4918/GIANT-DEFY-COMPOSITE-3-2013

I got this earlier in the year and apart from the white bar tape (now black) it's great