My bike is a red version of this one, with one or two other differences. I think the aerobars on this bike are a bit absurd. Mine are much flatter. You don't need them to curve this much upward.
The downtube with the piece of curved aluminum cut of it on the other hand is great. My downtube is tapered, like this one, but the wheel fits less snugly than does the wheel into this frame.
I do have the same deep section aero wheels, but the decals on them are red and yellow (like my bike).
Overall the most important thing about a bike is that it must be the right size. You should be looking directly down on the front axle when in the aero (tucked on the bars) position. Both the bikes I had before this one were a bit too big.
One thing about my bike that's not ideal is that the headset is on the low side. It's good because it means my profile against the wind is slightly smaller, but it is not as comfortable as I'd like, and after about 100km backache starts to creep in. I can lift the bars, which will be more comfortable, but then the drag increases.
Wheels are important, as they make the most contact with the wind. Even more important than the wheels or the bike is the rider. The rider creates more drag than anything else. On really long cycles, weight becomes a bit of a factor, and then you'll need a good frame, components and lightweight wheels to make the hard work and long hours a little easier on the legs.
I don't like the older Cannondales with their fat tubes, they just look heavy and lumpy, but the CAAD (aero design) I can live with. I'd love a Kestrel or a Felt bike. These a re pure carbon bikes, very light and comfortable. The absolute cutting edge. But that may mean choosing between a great bike and an average car. At this stage I'll stick with my CAAD and go for the car.
http://www.feltracing.com/2005_bikes/2005_f1c.html
http://www.kestrel-usa.com/index.php
No comments:
Post a Comment