I looked carefully at the TDF and made several visits to my local
Halfords.
Went down with a a view to buying one. Entered the store and was astounded to find the price had increased to £500 almost overnight. There was no way I was going to pay that for a TDF so left, feeling a little cheated.
Looking further into buying a bike I stumbled upon the Triban 3 in a cycling magazine review. The review stated that the T3 was the best road bike they had ever tested in the price range (£299) They also stated that the T3 was as well specced as bikes twice the price.
A trip to
Decathlon followed, got my correct size sorted with a ride round the store for good measure. The bike was then checked over to ensure it was safe to ride. (Take note Halfords)
Then the deed was done. I was a Triban 3 owner.
The above scenario happened just over a year ago. Glad to state that I am still a happy T3 owner.
Nothing against TDF's personally. Nice looking bikes. It's just Halfords who constantly mess with the prices.