Rodriguez Phinney Ridge or the Bandito?
Rodriguez Phinney Ridge with post mount disc brakes
The Phinney Ridge is probably the most versatile build in our industry. It can be built very light weight if desired, or can be built for heavier duty use if you wish. A Phinney Ridge can be used for road racing, gravel grinding, loaded touring, or daily commuting, depending on the build. We have Phinney Ridge models that use cable actuated disc brakes, and models that use hydraulic disc brakes like the Bandito.
This bike is a fantastic value, and has become one of our most popular builds. It can be built in your choice of wheel size....700c, 650b, or 26". Because of our exclusive Phinney Ridge light-weight fork, this bike can run wider tires with fenders than most bikes in this class....included the Bandito.
Russ from Path Less Pedaled described the Phinney Ridge as a 'platform' instead of a bike model. It has just about any upgade option available that anyone needs.
Now, we know that you might need help selecting a wheel size or model for your purposes, and that's what we're here for. Tell us what you intend to use this new Phinney Ridge for, and we'll help guide you through the options.
If you're looking for a versatile bike with disc brakes, and your budget starts at $3,999, then the Rodriguez Phinney Ridge is for you!
Rodriguez Bandito with flat mount disc brakes
While not as versatile as the Phinney Ridge, the Rodriguez Bandito is the most versatile bike in its class. That class is the fly-weight road bike! This bike is very light, and allows the rider to run wider tires than other road racing brands. You can easily run 32c with fenders, or 35c tires without fenders. While not as versatile as the Phinney Ridge, this is a great variety of tire widths for a sub 20 pound race bike. The ability to run fenders on a bike like this is almost unheard of, but we made it happen! Also, while not specifically designed for it, because of the ability to run wider tires, the Bandito is great for occasional off-road grinding.
The Bandito also comes stock with Thru Axle dropouts, electric shifting, carbon fork, and hydraulic disc brakes. All these things are available on the Phinney Ridge as upgrades, but are standard on the Bandito.
This bike is great for road racing, weekend rides with buddies and organized rides. This bike is lighter than carbon fiber bikes in its price range, and available in many more sizing configurations as well. You'll be riding faster because you'll be more comfortable than your buddies on their decal plastered carbon rides;-)
If you're looking for the lightest disc brake road bike money can buy, and your budget starts at $6,999, then the Rodriguez Bandito is your bike!
Obviously, these are both great bikes! Now that you know the difference between 'flat mount' and 'post mount' brakes, you can set that aside and focus on what really matters.....comfort, fit, budget and purpose. If the brief articles above don't make your choice clear, then let us help. Contact us today and we'll discuss which one is best for you.
