July 23rd
So about one-month ago I was hit from behind by a Toyota Previa Mini-van. I was riding northbound on Friant Road at about 4:15 pm. While traveling about 20 mph in the bike lane I was sideswiped at approximately 45mph by the van’s side mirror, front right tire and bumper. My bike sustained little apparent structural damage but was rendered un-rideable by a tacoed rear wheel and a bent behind belief rear skewer. I kept the van and its Non-english speaking drivers at the scene, called 911 to get a police report and called Sarah to pick me up. No injuries.

July 24th
I took my bike to Rubber Soul Bicycles to have the frame checked for damage. They found no serious physical damage but suggested that due to the details of the accident, I replace the frame. They gave me a typed estimate of the cost to replace my Frame/Fork, Rear wheel, pedals, and jersey.

August 14th
After faxing the damage estimate to the Car Owner’s insurance company they contacted me and wanted to see the bike for themselves. I showed them the damaged bike and explained that the damage was not visible but inside the carbon frame. Allstate insurance told me that they would do some research as to the value of the frame and get back to me.

August 19th
In anticipation of the insurance company wanting to keep my frame for salvage purposes I dissembled the entire bike and discovered a HUGE crack on the right chainstay behind the chainrings. Kestrel Evoke=Dead

August 21st
The insurance adjuster called and told me that they had settled to give me 80% of what I was asking for. I asked for full retail for all my damaged items knowing that they would negotiate a lower payment.

I’m happy. I went for a ride with Isaac this afternoon and still couldn’t ride on Friant Road. We did the willow/copper loop instead. I will get better but I’m still a little spooked.
August 22nd
Now I need to replace my road bike frame. I posted a poll/question on bikeforums.net also but I appreciate your feedback also.

My choices are:

Three choices: I can only get one.

I lost my 2005 Kestrel evoke in an unfortunate meeting with a Toyota Previa Minivan. Insurance paid for the frame and some other stuff budget is $1500.

I will be transferring my Campagnolo Record Group, FSA SLK crank, Neuvation r28 SL5’s and Keo pedals over to the new frame.

Choices:

1. 2007 Kestrel Evoke Red (mostly red) 56cm $999 Free shipping No tax online

2. 2008 Argon 18 Krypton Red white and Black (Mostly White) $1200 plus tax $1295

3. 2008 Ridley Orion Black red and Silver (mostly Black) $1400 plus tax $1511

My feelings:
1. Kestrel - I know and love the Kestrel but I don’t exactly love the new paint. Rides great, fits great.

2. Argon 18 - Badass looking bike but seems a little soft in performance vs comfort area.

3. Ridley - Raciest stiffest, probably the best frame in the group also the most boring looking.

I don’t race but ride lots of miles on the weekends and with the local saturday morning hammerhead crew.

Performance , aesthetics, and comfort are my requests in that order.

Any and all opinions are welcome. Suggestions for similar frames under $1500 also.