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WITH

LESS FATIGUE, MORE CONTROL.

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INTRODUCING NEW COUNTERVAIL VIBRATION CANCELING TECHNOLOGY
BIANCHIS INNOVATIVE SOLUTION TO CANCEL VIBRATION
Bianchi collaborated with Materials Sciences Corp. to develop our innovative and exclusive application of the patented Countervail integrated vibration canceling system for cycling. The result is the new Bianchi Innito CV. *Scientic studies prove that long term exposure to vibration, typically absorbed by the rider, causes muscle fatigue and discomfort, resulting in reduced performance.

INTEGRATED SYSTEM PROVEN IN NASA AEROSPACE OPERATIONS


Traditional passive damping of the frame using supercial rubber inserts and isolators are only marginally effective compared to the integrated carbon Countervail system developed by Bianchi and proven in the extreme conditions of NASA aerospace operations. With its patented carbon ber architecture and viscoelastic material, Countervail carbon material, embedded within our unique Innito CV carbon lay-up, immediately cancels vibration while increasing the stiffness and strength of the entire frame.

ADVANTAGES
Maximized ride control and handling under normal to extreme vibration loads Reduced muscle fatigue and increased energy savings in distance rides Increased rigidity and peak power output over long distances *As noted by the Journal of Sciences and Medicine report.

ROAD TEST

VIBRATION PLATFORM MACHINE

DATA ACQUISITION SYSTEM

SINGLE IMPULSE FORCE REACTION COUNTERVAIL MATERIAL EMBEDDED WITHIN THE CARBON STRUCTURE TRADITIONAL CARBON FRAME CONTINUES TO VIBRATE BIANCHI FRAME WITH COUNTERVAIL IMMEDIATELY CANCELS VIBRATION

Countervail layers

Acceleration

Carbon layers

Time

Acceleration

INCREASED VIBRATION CANCELLING CAPACITY

75%

Time

www.bianchi.com

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Photo: matteocappe.com

To m D a n i e l s o n

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P i v L o c k V 2

C H A N G E I S E ASY
PivLock technology: 1.lock 2.pivot 3.replace

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SPONSORS OF CHASING THE SUN

Its a dare to push harder. Its a taunt to go faster. And this time its different. This time you aim to experience more. This time you have a team behind you. Pushing you, driving you, and celebrating every burst, climb, push, and breath. We sponsor you, our Champion-in-Training.

Nourish your goals. Realize results. Join Team EAS and get your free kit. EAS.COM/TEAM THE BEST IS WITHIN WorldMags.net

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The Budnitz No. 3 Steel is tough yet elegant. Read the review on p. 88.

whether youre shopping for your rst bike or looking to add to the eet in your garage, we make nding the perfect ride easy this yeareven if youre still not sure what type of rider you are. With scores of tested and reviewed bikes in ve basic categories, you can quickly narrow your search to nd the one thats best for you.

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Cour tesy

48

These bikes quickly get you where you want to gowhether youre on a budget or a training plan.

BEGINNERS

You want to be carefree and have fun. These bikes are big on comfort and qualitywithout a scary price tag.

WOMENS

60

72

You want the same quality and performance as the guys. But you want a bike thats designed with your needs in mind.

MOUNTAIN

82

Finding the right bike for the trail doesnt have to be complicated. Whatever your goals, we have you covered.

URBAN

Whether youre riding to work or nowhere in particular, you want a bike that reflects your eye for style and utility.

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AMERICAN WATCHES BICYCLES LEATHER GOODS PAPER


TRIBECA 177 FRANKLIN ST. DETROIT 441 W. CANFIELD ST.

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Contents WorldMags.net

BUYERS G U I D E 14

16 18 128 130 136

Editors Letter The Feed Contest: Win Any Bike Source List The Frame

90

GEAR
Components and accessories for every kind of riderand every kind of ride

92 | Gran Fondo
Hit the road all day in comfort

94 | Womens
Look and feel your best

96 | Road Race
Fuel your need for speed

98 | Enduro
Tame any mountain

100 | Weekend Rider


Reward yourself with something awesome

92

102 | Lifestyle
Flaunt your cycling flair off the bike

104 | Upgrades
Take your ride to the next level

FEATURES
Peeling Back the Layers
Is there more to carbon fiber than meets the eye? Our author takes a closer look at this complex materialand makes a few surprising discoveries that take the mystery out of buying a carbon bike.
BY BERNE BROUDY

106 | Commuter
Arrive at the office safely and looking good

114

108 | Adventure
Be prepared for the longor shorthaul

110 | Workshop
Keep your bike in top shape

112 | Mountain XC
Show the trail whos boss

Shop Savvy
Buying your first bike can be a thrilling experienceas long as you understand the basics before walking into a shop. Our simple guide gives you all the adviceand confidenceyou need to get rolling.
BY NEIL BEZDEK
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On the Cover
Photograph by Trevor Dixon. The Pinarello Dogma K Hydro is ready for rough roads. Read the review on p. 20.

Find more bike and gear reviews in our iPad edition. Go to BICYCLING.com/ipad and download the app.

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WYOMING

ADVENTURE

Peter Flax editor in chief


design director Jesse Southerland
executive editors Leah Flickinger, David Howard editor at large William Strickland articles editor Louis Mazzante managing editor Christine Bucher senior editors Emily Furia, Jennifer Sherry brand editor Brad Ford editorial projects coordinator Deb Cosgrove copy editor Nancy Wallace Humes editorial intern Courtney Chamberlain test director Matt Phillips test editor Ron Koch mechanic Michael Yozell photo director Stacey Emenecker art director Colin McSherry photo assistant Kat Hanegraaf prepress by Quad Graphics senior online editor Matt Allyn web producer Greg Kaplan online intern Taylor Farnsworth
Frankie Andreu, Christie Aschwanden, Tom Clynes, Ian Dille, Bill Donahue, Brian Fiske, Steve Friedman, Bill Gifford, James Herrera, Ted King, Dan Koeppel, Mark Levine, Joe Lindsey, Mike Magnuson, Bob Mionske, Jen See, Jens Voigt, Selene Yeager, Whit Yost
CONTRIBUTORS ONLINE ART CYCLING TEST GROUP EDITORIAL

Tell us about your dream Wyoming getaway, and you could be on your way to enjoying all of the wonder, beauty and excitement Wyoming has to offer.

our man in europe James Startt librarian Lynn Donches


400 South 10th Street, Emmaus, PA 18098 bicycling@rodale.com; fax: 610/967-8960
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director, business management Laurie Jackson manager, business management Jackie Baum advertising finance manager Susan G. Snyder senior director David Tratner coordinator Laura Beachy
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CUSTOMER SERVICE: For subscription orders, questions, and address changes: Visit: www.bicycling.com/customer-service, e-mail BKEcustserv@rodale.com or write to: Bicycling Customer Service, 400 South Tenth Street, Emmaus, PA 18098-0099; 800/666-2806. Include a recent mailing label with all correspondence. Bicycling and Rodale Inc. assume no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts and artwork, and are not responsible for their loss or damage. READER PREFERENCE SERVICE: We occasionally make our subscriber names available to companies whose products or services should be of interest to you. If you do not wish to receive such mailings, call 800/666-2806 or visit rodaleinc.com/your-privacy-rights. FOR LICENSING AND REPRINTS OF BICYCLING: Contact Nick Iademarco, Wrights Reprints, at 877/652-5295. ATTENTION RETAILERS: Sell Bicycling in your store, risk-free. Call 800/845-8050 for details. (Please, no subscriber calls to this number.) April 2014 Vol. 55 No. 3

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Void where prohibited. Contest begins at 12:00AM ET, 2/25/14 and ends at 11:59PM ET, 4/15/14. Must be over 18 and a U.S. resident of 49 U.S. states or DC (excluding residents of AZ) or Canada (excluding residents of Province of Quebec). For the ofcial rules, visit bicycling.com/wyoming. The winner will be determined based on the quality of writing, originality and how compelling the entrants description of intended travel plans. Rodale Inc. 400 South Tenth St., Emmaus, PA 18098-0099, is the operator of the contest.

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President

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Chairman and Chief Executive Ofcer

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The fastest and most reliable race tire we have ever built. For every wheel system: Folding, tubular, tubeless. BECOME ONE WITH SPEED.

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Editors Letter

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CONTRIBUTORS

Shop Talk
find bikes that are boring or have a questionable choice of parts, but its rare to find real duds. The trick, of course, is to find a great bike. Fit still matters. A lot. The bikes are better and prices have fallen, but you cant fully enjoy a bicycle if its too big or small for you. Yet people make this mistake all the time. This is one reason everyone should visit a good bike shop where someone will spend time getting your fit right. Pay attention to the details. The tires are important. As are the saddle and the bar tape and the angles. They have to work and they have to work for you. Before you buy a bike you should take it for as long a ride as possible to experience all the little things that will affect how you feel about the bike in the long term. Good bikes have personality. Some are steady and quiet. Others are impetuous and chatty. Bikes can be smooth or brash, forgiving or unyielding, purposeful or impish. All of these qualities can be good; its tough to go wrong as long as you aspire to have a bike with character that makes you feel something. The story of a bike matters. Despite what some engineers might tell you, a good bicycle is more than the sum of its physical parts. The heritage or soul of a brand, the ideas and inspiration and people who influenced the final design, even your emotional reaction to the shaping or color of the tubingall of these things can have a real impact on how you experience a bike. It is good to have a bike with a story that speaks to you. To find it, read this buyers guide closely. It contains reviews and insights that can help you find the perfect bike. Thats the point. Weve picked standout bikes in every category that illustrate qualities or features that might speak to you. If were doing our job properly, the reviews should help you figure out what you really want. Whether youre here to shop or to fantasize, I hope you learn something about the mysteries of these magical machines.
Thanks to his avid-cyclist father, BICYCLING test director Matt Phillips has been around bicycles his whole life. To help you decide which one is best for you, Phillips notes that its not the coat of paint or the brand name that makes a bike worthy, but the personal connection you feel to your ride. A great bike is one that aligns with your needs and desires more than anything you can tangibly measure, he says. If it feels right, its right.

more beautiful and mysterious they become. Believe it or not, physicists still dont fully understand how a bicycle stays upright. Gyroscopic forces have something to do with it, but scientists acknowledge that they may know more about black holes and quarks than about why bikes are so stable and fun to ride. This uncertainty makes me unreasonably happy. We all have a lot to learn. I was a serial cycling monogamist before I took this job, but Id estimate Ive ridden about 400 different bikes since then. In that time, Ive had hundreds of conversations with engineers and leaders in the bike industry, and spent countless hours riding and debating with the BICYCLING test teama group of men and women that collectively has ridden more than ten thousand bikes. Here are some brief conclusions from my education so far. Practically all bikes are good these days. There was a time in the not-so-distant past when bad bikes roamed the showroom floors. But now, thanks to improvements in frame building and years of trickle-down advances with components, almost everything you can buy (at a real bike shop) is reasonably light and stiff and comfortable and nimble. Its not exceedingly hard to

THE MORE I KNOW ABOUT BIKES, THE

Colorado native Neil Bezdek shares tips for first-time bike buyers in Shop Savvy (p. 120). His most important piece of advice: Try lots of bikes. Its like buying a car, he says. You should never purchase the first model you see. Bezdek, a former professional cyclist, now lives in New York City and works for the Department of Transportations CitiBike program. His beginners guide to bike share will appear in our pages later this year.

editor in chief
@ PFLA X1

Peter Flax

I really enjoy product photography because it can be approached in many ways, says Philadelphia-based photographer Trevor Dixon, who shot this months cover and bike portraits. Once an avid BMX rider, Dixon enjoys pedaling with family in Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania. He photographed the Editors Choice dream bikes in our December 2013 issue and has also shot for Philadelphia magazine, IKEA, and Urban Outfitters.

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Cour tesy; Iz z y Cohan

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I hadnt even seen the latest issue yet when my wife, Jeanie, a new cyclist, said, She rides a Specialized Ruby, just like me! The couple featured on the cover had caught her attention, and she had begun leang through my magazinebecause shed seen someone she could relate to.

CHRIS BORNHAUSER
C H AT S W OR T H , C A

Thanks for the weight-loss stories in Tempt Yourself Thin (Jan./Feb.). My wife and I have undergone a similar transformation over the past year and the result has been equally life-changing. Between us weve lost nearly 100 pounds.
RYAN GEYER
S A N TA B A R B A R A , C A

Heres what my wife and I do: We each have a daily calorie limit, and if one of us goes over it, that person has to be the designated driver the next time we go out. If we both go over, the one who exceeds it by the most loses.

DAVE CROCCO
L ONG MON T, C O

Mission Accomplished
After missing many group rides last summer due to a new job,

diadoracyclingamerica.com

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SURVEY SAYS
the senorita century in san diego.
L IS A K . B A S S IL L

WHAT 2014 CYCLING EVENT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO?
police unity tour: 400 miles from new jersey to the police memorial in washington, dc.
R A C H A E L L IC H T VA N S L O T E N

WorldMags.net Winning Note


the one where i have the road to myself on a windless monday.
L A R S E N B E E

WE GET ON LIKE A HOUSE AFIRE


When my house caught fire I was out of town. I was relieved to hear my bikes were okay. Then I found out the fire started in my reading room, aka the bathroom. My worst fears were realized when I found the remains of three issues of BICYCLING. I contacted customer service and they sent me the lost copies. Kudos and thanks to all!

I was struggling to reach my mileage goal for 2013. James Herrera (Personal Trainer) reminded me to stick to my plan. After reading his goal-setting column on a Friday night, I knocked o 32 miles on a 30-degree Saturday and 35 miles on a 28-degree Sunday. Ive been riding more than a decade, and your magazine continues to motivate me.

Canyon with troubled teens from Colorados Ridge View Academy.


God bless cycling coach Greg Townsend, who has risen from the abuse of his own childhood to inuence the lives of young men who have suered the same fate. Having worked for the past 16 years as a mobile crisis counselor, I thank Townsend for showing us what it means to be a true role model, hero, and healer, and Ross for documenting it.

Pedaling the Past


Jonathan Kimes story, So This Is Where I Begin, hit close to home. I, too, never had the chance to grow up with my dad, who passed away days before my birth. I sometimes ride close to his resting spot and nd it very comforting.

JIM GREENE S A ND Y , U T

MARK SHAMES
B R O OK LY N , N Y

CARL KING
P OR T L A ND , ME

TALK WITH US
bicycling@rodale.com Bicycling Magazine @BicyclingMag @bicyclingmag

Roll Model
In Street Kids, Tracy Ross rode to the Grand

DENIS ASHTON
G IL B E R T, A Z

Jim, were betting you wont be able to extinguish your love for your new Park Tool Home Mechanic Starter kit.

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PINARELLO DOGMA K HYDRO

A S T R I K I N G R I DE E Q U I P P E D F OR A N Y RO UG H RO A D

Actually, its called that because it flows like water, I said to the third or fourth smartass who, on the Saturday ride, had pointed out that the Hydro part of my bikes name was inaccurate. Then the Dogma and I dropped him on the mile-or-so-long gravelly, rutted, wet-sand ascent of Hollyberry. The Italian company engineered this version of its bad-road bike to work with hydraulic disc brakes by tweaking the fork and chainstay to accommodate the mounts and the new forces that will affect those spots. When SRAM recalled the Red 22 Hydro in December 2013, our test bike temporarily lost a name that made sense (replacement hydraulic brakes will be supplied eventually), and we found ourselves, like other early adopters, restringing our bike with a cable-actuated system. To me, the brakes are the least of this bike, anyway. I dont mind disc brakes, and, like others on staff, I found some advantages (less so with the mechanical replacement, but still discernible): I could scrub speed later and harder approaching corners, which made me faster overall. Once accustomed to the sensitivity, I thought modulation and control were unquestionably better. And, of course, in rain the discs grabbed without the lag that occurs while traditional cantilevers squeegee the braking track. But, after 30 years of riding, I go about as fast as I ever want to downhill or into corners anyway. More pressing to me is my collection of beloved wheels I dont want to toss just to switch brakes. On our staff, the mountain bikers and the Google Glass guy are most excited about the disc revolution. Ill switch when so many others have them that I keep plowing into riders on rainy group rides. I think you ought to check out the Hydro simply because, among the many bicycles built for rotten roads, this one yields a striking ride. This Dogma carries the Pinarello DNA that produces stiff, ultra-efficient, crisp bikes that require attention but, with it, can be piloted in a manner as razor sharp as that of any bike Ive tested. Make no mistake: Thanks primarily to minute adjustments in angles and a slightly longer wheelbase, this frame is more forgiving than a pure Dogma. Yet Pinarello sticks with its asymmetric design (more strength where drivetrain and other forces are highest), and its top-level carbon, so the Dogma K rides with its teeth gritted a little more than some of its rivals. One of the most important changes is easy to overlook because it doesnt sound exciting: The frame and fork were altered to accept wider tires. When ridden at 80 to 90 psi, the 700x28c Contis on our Hydro (theres room for even wider options) have to be worth a million CAD iterations of fiber orientation when it comes to cushion and traction. Kudos to Pinarello for pushing the edges of its frame technology while not forgetting the fundamentalsand for making a bike that flows even when its brake lines cant.Bill Strickland

PRICE $5,300, frame and fork WEIGHT 16.5 lb. (48.5cm)


P H O T O G R A P H B Y T R E V O R DI X O N

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DIAMONDBACK HAANJO COMP


The broad category of skinny-tire bikes continues splintering into niches: race, endurance, cyclocross, urban, and now the trendy gravel-road segment. Is all that hair-splitting necessary? With the Haanjo Comps versatility, the answer is a refreshing no. Designed primarily for gravel-road rides, the Haanjo is up for almost any kind of experience youre after. Pavement ends? Ride on. Commuting and errands? Slap on fenders and a rear rack. Exploratory adventures? Get out the map. Its less adept at fast group rides or cyclocross racing, but you can use it for both. The Haanjo Comp closely resembles a cyclocross bike, but there are important geometry differences: The head tube is 3.5cm taller than those on Diamondbacks Steilacoom cross series, and the head angle is a degree slacker. This translates into an upright position and a slow-handling ride thats either reassuringly stable or sluggish, depending on your perspective. The long wheelbase softens the ride, important considering

F R OM G R AV E L T O DI R T R O A D S T O C I T Y S T R E E T S , T H I S B I K E D OE S I T A L L
that the frame and fork, designed to handle the stresses created by the disc brakes, dont yield much. Diamondback gave the Comp a smart mix of parts, including Shimanos dependable 105 shifters and derailleurs and WTB All Terrain 32mm tires, which corner nicely on dirt and roll surprisingly fast on pavement. One miss: Wed prefer a conventional 50/34 compact-geared crankset over the crossspecific 46/36 setup. The Haanjo Comp isnt built for a particular style of riding, and it is remarkably capable over a wide range of roads and experiences. The key is not to pigeonhole it as a gravel-road bike. Its a pleasingly versatile model for riders who want to keep their options open.Joe Lindsey

PRICE

$1,300
WEIGHT

21.8 lb. (53cm)

T R P H Y/ R D D I S C B R A K E S

The Haanjos HY/RD (say high road) disc brake system is a hybrid: It relies on cable actuation, but has hydraulic fluid to push the pistons and pads against the rotor. Its heavier and more complex than a pure hydraulic or cable system. But it gives you the more consistent feel and modulation of a full hydraulic brake at a lower price, plus self-adjusting calipers.J.L.

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FOCUS CAYO EVO 3.0


The Cayo Evo 3.0 is suitable for just about any type of road riding you plan to do, from casual outings with friends to long gran fondos to fast-paced races. The German brand set out to make a more forgiving frame by manipulating tube shapes and profiles (see box); its goal was to create a bike that will be comfortable from the first mile to the last.

A R E F I N E D F R A M E M A K E S L ON G R I DE S MOR E C OM F OR TA B L E
I noticed the smoothness almost instantlythe frame capably took the edge off road vibration and I felt connected to the pavement without every imperfection rattling through my bar and saddle. Confident my wheels wouldnt skip, I carved turns and powered through rough patches of gravel with purpose. The Cayo Evo provided a reminder that comfort doesnt have to slow you down. At 18.5 pounds with pedals and bottle cage, the Cayo Evo seemed lighter than it actually was, something I noticed when rising out of the saddle to climb or sprint. After a few pedal strokes, the frame swayed reassuringly back and forth beneath me, feeling lively and energetic. The Cayo I tested had Shimano Ultegra shifters and derailleurs, ensuring precise gear changes. In the past, North American customers could choose between a compact (50/34) or standard (53/39) drivetrain, both with FSA Gossamer cranks. But this year the Evo 3.0 is available here only with a compact setup. The rest of the build features Concept EX branded components, Fulcrum WH-CEX 7.0 wheels, and Schwalbe Lugano tires. With these quality parts the Focus Cayo Evo is a considerable value at this price a bike that combines race performance with predictable handling and all-day comfort to make every mile more enjoyable. Brad Ford

PRICE

$2,700
WEIGHT

18.1 lb. (54cm)

C O M F O R TA B LY S T I F F

The Evos flattened seatstays resist twisting but have a slight curve that allows just enough flex to blunt the sharpness of impacts or bumps. The hourglass-shaped top tube is stiffer at its wider ends, where it meets the head and seat tubes, but is more forgiving where it narrows in the middle, adding to the bikes stable, predictable handling.B.F.

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The new Norcom Straight replaces the venerable D6, a time-trial bike ridden by Olympians Matty Reed and Sarah Haskins. Change is good: This latest model boasts improved aerodynamics and better handling that should have any competitive riderpro or amateurcontending for even more podiums. The midrange Norcom 2.3 felt nimble and agile, stable on descents yet able to roll quickly from one turn to the next. The massive bottom bracket prevented the frame tubes from twisting when

I torqued the cranks to summit a climb and when I accelerated to racing speed from a complete stop. The frame muted road chatter, so much so that I noticed buzzing from the handlebar only on some poorly maintained rural roads. This model has a multiposition carbon seatpost that allows up to 70mm of front-to-back adjustment, nearly twice as much as some similar posts. On longer rides and races, I slid my saddle back for added comfort; for shorter outings, I moved it forward into a more aggressive position.

I wish the elbow pads on the bar extensions offered as much adjustmentto get comfortable I had to swap the stem and install risers under the pads. The Norcom 2.3 comes with SRAMs Rival 10-speed group paired with an Oval crank and 52/36 midcompact chainrings, all of which delivered reliable shifting. A sliding dropout makes it easy to lengthen or shorten your wheelbase to suit

specific courses, but the design isnt flawless: The derailleur cable can interfere with wheel changes, slowing midrace flat fixes. Despite these minor exceptions, the Norcom 2.3 impressed me. Rarely does a multisport bike at this price offer such a pleasing ride. Whether youre a seasoned pro or entering your first triathlon, this bike has the versatility to suit your needs. Greg Kaplan

PRICE

$2,800
WEIGHT

19.3 lb. (53cm)

B R A K I N G W I N D By mounting the front brake behind the fork and running the cable through the head tube, Fuji engineers reduced drag by 11 grams compared with traditional brake setups, the manufacturer claims. Thats a savings somewhere between 7 and 16 watts and means you can go faster with the same effort.G.K.

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GURU PHOTON SL
PRICE
The original Photon won our Editors Choice Dream Road prize in 2010. We lauded its 747-gram frame, sprightly climbing ability, and snappy, responsive ride quality. Guru revised the Photon in 2013, expanding it to a three-bike line that includes the SL reviewed here, the superstiff Photon R (for race), and the gossamer Photon HL (hyperlight).

A P R E V I O U S AWA R D W I N N E R B E C OM E S E V E N M O R E R E F I N E D
The SL (superlight) is the most direct descendant of the original Photon, says Nicolas McCrae, composites engineer for Guru. We wanted to show what weve learned in the past few years, he told me. The new model has rounded main tubes that are similar to the originalsbut now they flare at the junctions to increase surface area; the larger joint allows the front triangle to better resist twisting stresses. The Photon SL has the same ethereal climbing qualities as the original; its handling was quick and even more crisp than in previous iterations, thanks to the stiffer frame. The rigid Reynolds Assault SLG wheels would be excellent for racing, but they made the bike ride a bit more harshly than I liked. Switching to Shimano C24 hoops restored the smoothly damped, almost polished ride I remembered from the earlier model. Gurus frame sizes and geometry differ among the SL, HL, and R, making direct comparisons difficult. Generally, the SL has a slightly taller bar height and shorter reach, which put me in a more upright position. If you race and prize stiffness, the R is a better choice; the HL obviously has the lightest frame. But the Photon SL hits a wide sweet spot, a performance bike with a gorgeous ride. Joe Lindsey
*$6,900 as tested

$4,500,* frameset
WEIGHT

15.6 lb. (54.5cm)

FABRIQUE AU QUEBEC

Guru builds its Photon frames at its factory in Quebec, which allows the company to do rapid prototyping of new ideas or designs that would take months on the usual Asian-built program. North American manufacturing also offers Guru access to military-grade carbon that isnt sold in China. J.L.
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Its WorldMags.net Easy to Test Ride the New Dogma,


the hard part is giving it back.
Find out what makes the Tour de France winning DOGMA so special. Now you can take the exhilarating new Dogma 65.1 Think2 out for a test ride. Over 200 of these new bikes are ready to roll at ofcial Pinarello Demo Test Centers across the country. Check the dealer locater (QR code below) to nd the one closest to you and schedule your ride today. Just remember, returning it will be the only unpleasant part of the experience.

www.DogmaDemoDealers.com

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WorldMags.net FELT F5

HIGH PERFORM A NCE AT A FR ACTION OF THE COST

Just a couple of years ago, I wouldnt have considered buying any of the less-expensive carbon bikesmost were too rigid and rode harshly, and rumors of catastrophic failures concerned me. But bikes like the F5 are changing my opinion. Its satisfying mix of speed, power, and comfort made me forget after only a few rides that it costs just $1,800. I wasnt surprised when I later learned that Felt uses the same frame design on models that can cost three times as much. A handful of winter rides revealed the bikes premium qualities. A series of storms near our Pennsylvania HQ left many of the roads covered in snowmelt cinders, then the freezing and thawing widened cracks in the pavement and ripped open potholes. Even in those conditions, the F5 felt reassuringly connected to the road. It smoothed out vibrations from the gravel-like cinders and lessened the sting when I couldnt avoid rolling into a pothole. I could drive hard up climbs and lean into corners confident that my wheels would hold the road and go where I pointed them. While comfortable, the F5 never felt soft or vague, the way some inexpensive frames do. Felt is one of many manufacturers chasing that satisfying blend of comfort and stiffness. To achieve it in the F5, the company uses some premium layers of carbon in the frame and fork. Felt doesnt skimp on components, either. The frame comes with Shimanos 105 shifters and derailleursparts typically found on bikes sold at $2,000 or more. But to save some money, Felt uses lower-grade Shimano parts in areas it believes will have less impact on the ride: the 10-speed cassette, chain, and dual-pivot brakes. At 18.5 pounds including alloy pedals and a bottle cage, the F5 is reasonably svelte compared with similar bikes. On the road, the bike felt neutralneither heavy nor lightand moved predictably in response to my input. When I stood to climb or to chase back to a group, the bike felt balanced beneath me, swaying easily as I rocked it from side to side. The 50/34 compact crank (with close-ratio 11-25 cassette) provided an ample range of gears, and helped me to settle into a relaxed cadence on longer climbs. The F5 doesnt leap forward like Felts top-of-the-line models likely due to the heavier wheels and tiresbut the frame responds sharply to pedal input, propelling you forward during hard efforts. You still have to supply the power, but the F5 wont hold you back. In fact, I was able to win multiple town-sign sprints against folks on much more expensive rides. Anyone looking for a reasonably priced carbon bike to pedal hard all day should consider the F5. Its premium frame and quality components make it a strong value, and it might change how you look at inexpensive carbon models. Brad Ford

PRICE $1,800 WEIGHT 18.5 lb. (54cm)


P H O T O G R A P H B Y T R E V O R DI X O N

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RITCHEY ROAD LOGIC


One day my lunchtime ride group picked a route called Corningnamed after a long, steep climb about midway through. The first time Id done it, a lady mowing her lawn at a house about a third of the way up had stopped her work to laugh at me, the last in the line of sufferers. My initial impulse was to reroute, but peer pressure is powerful. Plus, I knew from previous rides that the Logic would help me out. The geometry is comfortably racy and the frame felt stiff enough to

A S T E E L B I K E T H AT I S S MO O T H , B U T A L S O S U R P R I S I N G LY Q U IC K
transfer most of my power into forward motion, yet not so rigid as to turn road wrinkles into painful hammer blows. The bike was steady at the bottom of Corning as I established a rhythm, then as the road curved left and the grade increased I alternated standing and sitting, focusing on the road sign at the top, oblivious to the boost I was getting from the Logics stability and stiffness. I joined the group at the summit, catching my breath before plunging down the other side, where the bike handled predictably while maneuvering around potholes and downed branches. Despite its stiffness, the steel frame didnt feel harsh over sections of broken pavement; it provided enough feedback that I felt connected to the road. Its easy to mock the steel is real catchphrase, but the Road Logics efficient, smooth, and refined ride highlights the merit of the material. Whos the ideal rider for this bike? Anyone who values a quality frame, anyone whose budget cant accommodate a pricey carbon model, anyone who has crashed and destroyed a carbon frame, anyone who wants a little give in a superrigid racer. Yep, thats practically anyone.Christine Bucher

PRICE

$1,050, frameset
WEIGHT

18.2 lb.* (54cm)

SUPERIOR STEEL

The Logics chromoly tubes look old school, but only from the outside. Ritchey says the construction process includes techniques that create aggressively short butted sectionsthe inner wall of each is tapered, thicker on the ends and much thinner in the middle. This creates a lighter, stiffer bike that Ritchey claims optimizes steels forgiving ride.C.B.

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*As tested

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GOLDENGATE - ASSOS PATENT

THE INCREDIBLE RESULTS OF THE _S7 DESIGN ARE THE SUM OF MANY SMALL STEPS AND 6 (!) PATENTS OF WHICH THE CORE INNOVATION IS GOLDENGATE. IT IS ANOTHER ASSOS MILESTONE CREATION. GOLDENGATES UNIQUE SEAMLESS DESIGN MINIMIZES FRICTION, MAXIMIZING COMFORT. PATENT PROTECTED. BEWARE OF IMITATIONS.

WHERE TO BUY? ASSOSINSTORE.COM ASSOSONLINE.COM WorldMags.net

USA & CANADA ASSOS North America Inc Tel 1 800 266 4903 HQ@assosnorthamerica.com Montreal CANADA

BUYERS G U I D E 1 4 TESTED

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SCOTT ADDICT SL
PRICE
After being discontinued in 2011, the Addict returns in a lighter, faster, less harsh, and more sophisticated package that has already shown its mettle: Orica-GreenEDGEs Simon Gerrans beat Peter Sagan on Stage 3 of last years Tour de France riding a version of this model. At just 727 grams for a 54cm frame, its incredibly

A S MO O T H- R I DI N G S P E E D M A C H I N E
svelte163 grams lighter than Scotts superaero Foilyet 5.9 percent stiffer in the bottom bracket area than the previous Addict, says the company. To boost rigidity while shaving weight, Scott used pieces of ultrahigh-modulus fibers on the frame. Though the tubes are not as rigid or aero as the Foils, they were shaped using wind-tunnel data to reduce drag and improve their slipperiness in wind. The company also optimized how the carbon was applied in key areas, especially in the seatpost and where the seatstays join the top tube. Those changes make the bike 39 percent more compliant than its predecessor, Scott says. Thats enough movement to reduce the sting of pothole strikes, but the rear end never felt soft or flexy. The Addicts combination of rigidity and light weight helped it fly up climbs. Whether I was seated or sawing away at the handlebar, this bike lunged forward with every pedal stroke, a trait I also noticed in sprints. Most impressive to me was the ride quality, which reminded me more of an exotic, handmade carbon dream bike than a pure racerlively and at the same time forgiving. In rough corners that have upset other race bikes in past tests, the Addict would just glide through, establishing it as one of the smoothest-riding speed demons Ive ever been on. Ron Koch

$12,650, frameset
WEIGHT

13.1 lb. (56cm)

W I N D -T U N N E L T E S T E D

To improve aerodynamics, Scott used its F01 partial airfoil technology on the Addict. This design eliminates the trailing edge of a traditional airfoil design, but retains the aerodynamic advantage of the full shape. Scott says the frame is 13.2 percent more aero than the previous version, which would mean you could use up to 7.8 watts less to maintain 28 mph.R.K.
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N EW

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Super Natural

Performance
The new standard for whole-food-based sports nutrition products
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Our products are tested by an independent third party lab for genetically modified material and test below a 0.9% threshold. These products have been tested by HFL Sport Science, a world-class anti-doping lab, for over 145 banned substances on the 2013 World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) prohibited list via HFL skip lot testing protocol #ICP0307 and have been certified banned substance free. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Call 1.800.477.4462 or visit GNC.com for the store nearest you. 2014 General Nutrition Corporation. May not be available outside the U.S.

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SPECIALIZED S-WORKS ROUBAIX SL4


A DR E A M B I K E F OR E V E R Y D AY R I DE R S
Like many superbikes, the S-Works Roubaix is made for racing. Specialized designed the bike to propel its pro riders to victory over the flinty roads of Europes spring Classics. But the Roubaix line has a more forgiving quality than many ultrapremium models, making the bikes enjoyable to ride whether youre attacking the peloton or cruising with a group ride. Like previous iterations, this redesigned Roubaix features the models trademark Zertz inserts in its seatstays and fork, which Specialized says increase rider comfort by absorbing road vibrations. To make this new model even faster, engineers gave it slightly more aggressive frame angles and used the same high grades of carbon as the speedat-any-cost SL4 Tarmac series. The power transfer and downhill handling feel more precise, but the bike still rolls almost silently over rough roads. It can rocket out of a hairpin turn, power over the next summit, then hold a steady line across cracked pavement and dirt. In many ways, the SL4 Roubaix feels surprisingly similar to the Tarmac, but it has a taller head tube and a ride that seems more forgiving, making it better suited for longer rides that dont end at a finish line. Our test bikes premium build includes Roval Rapide CLX 40 Disc wheels, 220-tpi S-Works Turbo tires, and SRAMs Red 22 drivetrain. The brakes in that group have since been recalled, and until SRAM resolves the issues, look to models with Shimanos Dura-Ace ($8,500) and Dura-Ace Di2 ($10,500), which use cableactuated rim brakes. For riders with a smaller budget, Specialized offers several Roubaix models starting at $1,800. But the top-of-the-line S-Works SL4 has no weakness beyond a lofty price tag.Matt Allyn

PRICE

$8,500
WEIGHT

16.2 lb. (58cm)

GOBBLE THE COBBLES

Specializeds carbon-fiber CG-R seatpost uses a carbon leaf spring under the seat to provide as much as 17mm of travel enough to take the sting out of cobbles, chipped pavement, and gravel roads without detracting from the bikes performance.M.A.

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THERE WE GO. RAISING THE BAR. AGAIN.


INTRODUCING THE ALL-NEW XENITH SL. [RE]DESIGNED. [RE]ENGINEERED. [RE]IGNITED.

EXPERIENCE THE 2014 XENITH LINE

JAMISXENITH.COM

2013 Jamis Bicycles. All rights reserved. Jamis and Xenith are trademarks of Jamis Bicycles registered in the U.S. and other countries.

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TREK MADONE 6.2 H2


Although it looks similar to last years model, the 2014 Madone has some subtle but important improvements that make it faster and more enjoyable to ride. The aero race bike uses the same distinctive Kamm-tail tubes (think an airplane wing cut in half lengthwise) as its predecessor, but this version features stiffer chainstays and a reinforced bottom-bracket area. The changes make the bike feel more substantial. On the previous iteration, the rear end felt soft when you jammed on the brakes or hammered on the pedals. No longer. With its reenergized ride, this midprice Madone better represents the platforms racing DNA. It feels lively and firm over rough pavement, but not offensively so. Both this model and the

A N A E R O R A C E B I K E W I T H A R E F I N E D R I DE
slightly more expensive Madone 7 come in two versions: The H1 has a low-and-steep geometry for racing; H2 has a shorter top tube and a taller head tube that puts the rider in a more upright, less taxing position. I tested the latter, and the handling felt balanced the bike was stable but still quick enough that I could take the inside line around most corners without scrubbing too much speed. The stiffer stays and stronger bottom-bracket area improve your stopping power, but the Bontrager rear brake still felt weaker than some similar caliper models. Trek equipped the Madone with Shimanos excellent Ultegra drivetrain; its too bad the manufacturer didnt go with the matching brakes. That rear brake did little to detract from the ride, though. Compared with some similarly priced bikes, the updated Madone feels more refined. Its agile, energetic, and seems less affected by the wind, and its upright position kept me comfortable. As the miles added up, I felt fresher on this Madone, and faster. Ron Koch

PRICE

$4,600
WEIGHT

15.8 lb. (58cm)

S M O O T H O P E R AT O R Shimanos new 11-speed Ultegra 6800 drivetrain strongly resembles the companys premium Dura-Ace groupand works nearly as well. This is significant considering that the parts cost considerably less, with only a small weight penalty. The revised shifters have a reduced throw, so gear changes happen faster with less effort. And stiffer chainrings lead to crisper front shifting.R.K.

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REMEMBER THE 70S? YEAH, NEITHER DO WE. WHAT WE DO KNOW IS THAT IN 1974 WE DECIDED WE WANTED TO START MAKING THE BEST BIKE STUFF WE COULD. BY RIDERS, FOR RIDERS. SURE OUR BELL BOTTOMS

MAY HAVE GOTTEN IN THE WAY A FEW TIMES ALONG THE RIDE, BUT FROM ALL OF US HERE AT SPECIALIZED WE JUST WANTED TO SAY THANKS. BECAUSE OF YOU, WELL NEVER STOP LOOKING FORWARD. HERES TO ANOTHER 40 YEARS. S P E C I A L I Z E D . C O M / F I R S T 4 0

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WILIER CENTO1AIR
This aero road bike from Italian builder Wilier has sleek tube shapes to create a fast, responsive frame worthy of the brands racedriven legacy. To design the Cento1Air, Wilier spent time in the wind tunnel to maximize the slipperiness of the frame. Then it road-tested the bike to make sure those aero features didnt detract from the ride.

A S L E E K N E W OP T ION F R OM T H I S R A C E -DR I V E N B R A N D
The Air fills a gap in Wiliers line, falling between the purely road-going Cento1SR and the companys Twin Blade time-trial model. That setup makes it ideal for riders who want a responsive race bike that is less vulnerable to the wind. The new frame resembles the SR, but with some aerodynamic features. In addition to drag-reducing frame tubes, the bike comes with an aero post, and the seatstays attach low on the seat tube, like they do on the Blade, to improve airflow. Those changes, and a stiff bottom bracket, make the Cento1Air more responsive than the SR without seeming harsh. The bike reacts promptly when you put down maximum watts, yet is supple enough to take the chatter out of the road. Leaning the Cento1 to carve a turn requires a minimal shift in body weight and the bike feels controlled even on 40-mph descents, blowing over small bumps in the road without flinching. Wilier sells the Cento1Air frameset (seatpost, bottom bracket, and fork) for $4,000, or you can choose from two Shimano build kits: One has a full Ultegra Di2 group; the other is a mix of mechanical-shifting Ultegra and Dura-Ace parts. Each complete bike costs $5,000. No matter which package you choose, Wiliers sleek new road bike is sure to please. Mike Yozell

PRICE

$5,000
WEIGHT

16.1 lb. (54cm)


HOOP DREAMS
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Believing that many of its customers already own race wheels, or want to choose their own, Wilier ships the Air with moderately priced Shimano RS21 hoops. For those who want premium wheels, the company offers Heds Jet 60 FR aero wheelset (at their $1,900 retail price), but you can keep the Shimanos.M.Y.

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FUJI SPORTIF 1.1 $1,450 J A smart choice for recreational riders looking to increase their miles without emptying their wallets, this model, based on Fujis carbon Gran Fondo, is made for long rides: The aluminum frames rear triangle features tapered stays to reduce road shock and vibration. The carbon fork contributes to the unruffled ride, and disc brakes provide consistent stopping even in the rain.

DIAMONDBACK PODIUM VITESSE ATHENA EPS $6,000 J Until last year, the notion of a $6,000 road bike

from a company better known for its off-road creations might have raised some eyebrows. But models such the Podium Vitesse (and the even more decadent Podium-Equipe line) prove that Diamondback can produce premium bikes for the pavement. In fact, the Vitesse Athena EPS has everything you need to mix it up at the front of a race or spirited group ride. Diamondback says that using extensive computer modeling helped its engineers create a frame that weighs less than 1,000 grams. The unyielding head tube and bottom bracket help deliver power efficiently to the rear wheel, but the bikes seatstays and seat tube have a small degree of flex to insulate you from road vibration. Campagnolos Athena EPS electronic drivetrain packs performance similar to the companys carbon-laden Super Record, but has some alloy pieces, making it a little heavier but also less expensive.

CANNONDALE SYNAPSE DISC 5 105 $1,570 J Cannondale claims


that its Save Plus Micro-Suspension absorbs road shock and vibration. The design, which is also found on some more expensive models, combines flat chainstays, helixshaped seatstays, and a superskinny 24.5mm seatpost. With rear rack mounts, fender clearance, and strong disc brakes, the Synapse is also a good option for commuting.

ISM saddles. Measurably superior.

ISM is the rst and original dual-arm saddle designed to increase blood ow in the perineal area. The results are a more comfortable ride without the numbness associated with traditional saddles. To see the ISM difference, visit ismseat.com/technology

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ISMSEAT.COM

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JAMIS ICON PRO $1,750 J Not many aluminum bikes can
match the damped feel of premium carbon. But this one comes close, thanks to carefully engineered tubes. At 1,150 grams for a 56cm, it climbs fast and whips around curves on the descent. Add in a vibration-absorbing composite fork and Shimano 105 drivetrain, and you get a budget-friendly bike thats ready to race.

SURLY STRAGGLER $1,775 J Fans of Surlys steel Cross-Check


loved the bikes go-anywhere versatility, but wanted a discbrake-equipped version. While not an exact copy, this new model borrows the Cross-Checks all-terrain ethos, thanks to a tall head tube, a low bottom bracket, and toothy 41mm tires. That makes it well suited for gravel, adventurous road rides, dirt trails, and even some cross races.

KHS FLITE 750 $1,850 J With a full carbon monocoque


frame that keeps weight low without sacrificing performance, the 750 is a great first race bike. In fact, if you want a fast and comfortable bike you can ride all day, this ones ideal. The 11-32 cassette offers lower gearing than most bikes in this category, so you can spin up steep hills with less effort.

CANNONDALE CAAD 10 4 RIVAL $1,950 J With the racy frame


angles of the Tour de France-proven SuperSix EVO, the CAAD10 merges aggressive handling with an attainable price. The hydroformed aluminum tubes keep weight low, while heat treating and smooth welds strengthen the frame and improve aesthetics. Acceleration is quick, and the bike dives in and out of corners like a Bugatti.

TREK DOMANE 4.3 $2,200 J An IsoSpeed decoupler separates


the top tube and seatstays from the seat tube, so the latter can flex to absorb feedback from rough roads. The hidden fender mounts offer wet-weather capability and the 10-speed Shimano 105 drivetrain is broadly geared to tackle steep climbs. The affordable carbon-fiber frame is stiff, light, and tough for dirt-road rambles.

STOEMPER DARREL $2,500, frame and fork J Handmade in


Oregon, the Darrel has aluminum tubes, a carbon fork, and geometry thats ideal for fast rides. Stoemper offers several custom options, such as a choice of Pressfit 30 or standard bottom bracket, and you can also choose from 11 frame sizes. If you prefer dirt roads to racing, theres a Darrel with a longer wheelbase for better handling.

Cour tesy

www.bmc-switzerland.com

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NINER RLT 9 4-STAR $3,000 J Designed to accept 29-inch or
700c wheels, the RLT expands the boundaries of where one bike can go. Mount a pair of slicks to the Stans tubeless wheels and head out for an all-day gravel-road adventure. Throw on cyclocross tires and line up at your local race series. Light-duty singletrack? No problem, as long as youre comfortable ripping downhill in the drops.

the design objective behind the updated S2, Cervlos modestly priced aero road bike (the frame alone on the higher-end S5 costs $3,800). The seat tube has a subtle cutaway that curves around the rear wheel to improve airflow, while the down tube is squared off at the cage mounts so air slips around the bottles, reducing drag. Cervlo borrowed the rear triangle design from its RCA road model, and the thinner seatstays offer better compliance, the company claims. But all those enhancements are pointless if power transfer falls flat, so designers increased frame stiffness by using a wider bottom bracket that accommodates an oversize seat tube and chainstays. Translation: Your pedaling force goes to the rear wheel, propelling you forward whether youre in a headwind or not.

CERVLO S2 $2,850 J The best way to cheat the wind? Provide a smooth route for flowing air. Thats

GIANT TCR ADVANCED 1 ULTEGRA $3,200 J The downwardsloping top tube reduces the size of the front and rear triangles, resulting in a lighter, stiffer frame. A larger-thanaverage tapered head tube boosts front-end stiffness by 30 percent, Giant claims. The P-SL1 wheels use DT-Swiss-made hub internals, and the frame is compatible with electronic shifters, making it easy to upgrade.

VX Trail Race
The fully user-serviceable VP-VX Trail Race is our top of the line trail sized pedal. It provides the utmost in longevity and durability in all conditions by employing a very high quality inner oil seal, full roller bearings and double sealed cartridge bearings. Thanks to VX bindings, cleat-in is precise and cleat-out is crisp and predictable. SPD compatible aluminum body with mini platform for extra stability Heat treated steel VX bindings w/ adjustable release tension. Forged, heat treated, CNC machined cromoly steel axle. High quality oil seals for superior longevity. Roller and double sealed cartridge bearings. Rebuild kits available.

Learn more about our full range of SPD compatible pedals. www.vp-usa.com/vp-vx-series

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PINARELLO PARIS 50.1 THINK2 $3,500, frameset J This
endurance- oriented frame has the same striking lines and asymmetric construction as Pinarellos flagship Dogma race bike. But the head tube is 5mm taller, which should reduce lower-back strain on long rides. The Think2 internal-cable-routing system is compatible with both mechanical and electronic drivetrains.

CANNONDALE SUPERSIX EVO ULTEGRA RACING EDITION $3,790


J Designed for racers who want high-performance car-

WILIER TRIESTINA CENTO1 SR DISC $4,000, frameset J Available


only as a frameset in the US, the Cento1 SR Disc has Kamm-tail shapes on the fork and seat tubea design that acts like an airfoil to reduce drag with less material than traditional aerodynamic designs. The frame weighs in at 990 grams, according to Wilier, making this one of the lighter disc-ready aero road frames available.

bon at a lower price, the stiff SuperSix EVO is cut from the same mold as Cannondales flagship SuperSix EVO Hi-Mod. This version has heavier low-modulus carbon, but the same race-inspired geometry. Flat, leaf-springshaped seatstays absorb road buzz, Cannondale claims.

GIANT TCR SLR 0 $4,050 J Outfitted with SRAMs top-ofthe-line Red 22 drivetrain, this lightweight racer comes ready to tackle your local hills or conquer an office-park crit. The high-grade aluminum tubes are 20 percent thinner than those of most competing models, Giant claims, creating a superlight frame thats stiff and strong. The carbon fork takes the sting out of bumpy pavement.

SALSA COLOSSAL TI $4,500 J This verstile model is for anyone looking to explore far-off, lesser-known roads. The double-butted 3/2.5 titanium frame has shaped stays and a narrow 27.2mm seatpost, both of which flex slightly to take the hurt out of cracked roads. But its not just about comfort: The carbon fork, sharp handling, and quality parts mean its ready to be ridden fast.

COLNAGO CX ZERO DISC ULTEGRA $4,700 J With a tall head


tube, long chainstays, and a small-diameter seat tube, the CX Zero emphasizes comfort. But dont be fooled by the posh ridethis bike was designed for rough-and-tumble spring Classics, so its also fast. While the pros cant use powerful, easy-to-control disc brakes (theyre not UCI legal), you can. And youll be glad they come on the CX Zero.

Cour tesy

www.bmc-switzerland.com

teammachine SLR01

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FELT F2 $5,150 J The F2s Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic
drivetrain has secondary shifters to use during sprints, which speaks to the bikes thoroughbred character. Felt claims that the tube construction eliminates excess material to reduce weight. A tapered head tube beefs up the front end to sharpen steering. Tubeless-ready wheels allow lower psi for a smoother ride, better traction, and fewer pinch flats.

FACTOR VIS VIRES $16,000 J Factor, a company that makes composite parts for the aerospace

industry, jumped into bike design in 2007 with the goal of creating groundbreaking bicycles. Its first production bike, the Vis Vires, hits that mark. This radical carbon rig has an unusual frame design with a split down tube: Two aero struts improve lateral rigidity and allow turbulent air from the front wheel to pass through, Factor says. The equally unique (and not UCI-legal) twinblade fork is held together by an oversize stem that serves as both crown and bar clamp. (It also has a built-in Garmin mount.) Brakes shielded by the fork and seatstays further reduce drag, as do the 45mm carbon aero wheels. Factors Power Measurement Crank, which independently tabulates left- and right-leg power output, is a stock component. An ENVE carbon handlebar and a Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 electronic drivetrain round out this stunning bike.

VOLAGI LISCIO ULTEGRA R785 $5,900 J Like the original,


launched in 2011, this second-generation Liscio is built around Volagis LongBow design, which separates the seatstays from the seat tube for increased bump absorption. Volagis Ignite SL carbon wheels add to the comfortable feelthe wide (25mm outer diameter) and shallow profile lets you run larger tires at lower pressure for a supple ride.

FOCUS IZALCO MAX 3.0 $7,250 J The Izalco Max frame weighs
just 790 grams (size small), making it one of the lightest production models available. The carbon fork adds just 295 grams. Each of the seven frame sizes has custom tube diameters to maintain consistent stiffness and ride quality across the range. The 3.0 comes with SRAMs top-end Red 22 drivetrain and Fulcrums aluminum Racing Zero wheels.

FELT IA FRD $10,000 J Each frame section and many components on this triathlon bike are designed to work with the othersa concept Felt calls Integrated Aerodynamics, or IA. Deep airfoil-shaped tubes and integrated brake calipers reduce drag. Felts TTR1 wheels shave weight and further improve aerodynamics. Theres even a nutrition compartment built into the top tube.

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RE A DY FOR A N Y TR A IL

DIAMONDBACK OVERDRIVE COMP


stiff frame makes controlling the bike easier, but a slight curve in the seatstays provides enough give to prevent the bike from feeling punishing. At the trails end, the Overdrive still shines. Its about 6 cinder-path miles from the local trailhead to my house, and the bikes wide range of gearsit has a triple crankgives me the top end I want to get home fast. Or I can use the easy gearing to spin alongside my young son on a two-wheeled ramble. While the bikes geometry is based on that of Diamondbacks higher-end mountain bikes, it still feels comfortable at slower speeds. The Overdrive Comp is plenty versatile, and its a good option for riders looking for a capable mountain bike without taking out a second mortgage. Its also ideal for first-time 29er riders, says Jon Kennedy, marketing manager at Diamondback. The company chose a balance of Shimano parts to keep the price down while offering reliable performance in the parts where its cruciallike the solid Deore drivetrain and brakes. The Octalink cranks are serviceable and shift well but are slightly heavier than more expensive versions. The wheels are not especially light, but they are tough. The 100mm-travel RockShox XC 30 TK fork feels smooth on most trails and does a surprisingly good job of soaking up larger hits. Plowing into successive bumps at high speed, like when racing through a rock garden, can overwhelm the forks basic damping and make it feel harsh, but I still made it through those sections with little trouble. The Overdrives relatively low price positions it as an entry-level mountain bike, but it performs like a higher-end product. Swapping out a few partslike the wheels and forkas your skills progress could deliver years of exciting rides. And if all you want is a fun, versatile model for commuting and exploring dirt paths, this Diamondback is good for that too. Mike Yozell

The Diamondback Overdrive Comp is a talented chameleon. Its a trail-worthy machine for letting off steam on the weekend and an apt candidate for fast spins along rail-trails or your weekday commute. This makes it a smart choice for riders who want a multipurpose bike at a reasonable price. Sometimes jack-of-all-trades bikes disappoint on technical trails, but the Overdrive Comp is seriously fun on singletrack. The hydroformed 6061 aluminum frame is low slung for good standover, while the 29-inch wheels are forgiving over rough terrain and large obstacles. The bike weighs slightly more than 30 pounds, but rides like a lighter model, dancing down the trail and nimbly negotiating fallen logs and unexpected corners. It also feels balanced: accurate through rooty lines and stable on rock-strewn descents. The Overdrives

PRICE $1,000 WEIGHT 30.5 lb. (18 in.)


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MARIN SAN ANSELMO DS4


PRICE
For me, a truly great bike is one that inspireseven compelsme to go on rides I might not otherwise take, and encourages me to seek out adventurous routes. In this regard, Marins modestly priced San Anselmo delivers splendidly. The DS in DS4 stands for dual sport, and the bike proved worthy on paved roads and gravel paths. The Suntour fork provides 63mm of travel, which I appreciated when rolling off curbs and over cobblestones (a fact of cycling life in Philadelphia, where I live). It can be locked out on the fly for road riding. Schwalbes 40mm knobby tires glided over lumps of ice and slush lurking on

F U N T O R I DE , N O M AT T E R W H E R E T H E D AY TA K E S Y O U
the roads shoulder, and enabled impromptu journeys through snow-covered fields. Attach a rack and panniers to the frame mounts and you can stop for groceries on the way home. The upright position and flat grips made climbing comfortable, if not speedythe bike weighs nearly 30 pounds. The San Anselmo has womens geometry with a step-through frame and comes with flat pedals. (If you prefer a classic diamond frame, check out the San Rafael unisex version.) The womens mountain bike saddle was comfortable even after hours of pedaling sans chamois. It all adds up to a bike that encourages you to hop on and go, to pedal as you are, to sneak in a few miles at sunset, to see whats at the end of that muddy path. If youre still trying to figure out whether you prefer road or dirtor if you never ride the same route twiceyou might find a worthy companion in the DS4.Emily Furia

$800
WEIGHT

29.4 lb. (19 in.)

F U N C T I O N A L LY F U N

I was initially skeptical of step-through frames: Im perfectly capable of throwing my leg over a regular top tube, even in a dress. Then I tried the San Anselmoand was surprised how much easier errands by bike became. The design is especially helpful on skirt days, when using a rear rack, or for riders running a high saddle height.E.F.

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CANNONDALE CAAD8 7 SORA


B R IG H T A N D L I V E LY, AT A G O OD P R IC E
When a bike that costs as much as a quality used car is amazing, were not surprised. It better be amazing. Finding an entry-level bike worthy of such praise is more rare. The Cannondale CAAD8 7 Sora came ever so close to shocking us with greatness. The bikes frame and many of its components are pleasantly refined, making this one of the quietest bikes Ive tested at any price. The CAAD8 feels smooth, softening larger bumps while damping much of the buzz from rough pavement and chip seal without sucking life from the ride. Compared with other bikes at this price, this one felt bright and lively. Its sporty handling made it easy to initiate turns and the bike responded predictably in corners, no matter how fast I was going. The geometry is similar to that of Cannondales top race bikes, which explains the competent handling, but the CAAD8 has a longer head tube, which raises the handlebar. That settles the steering a bit and puts the rider in a more upright position. At 20 pounds, the bike doesnt accelerate like an expensive race model, but its still quick and the extra weight adds some stability. The Shimano Sora ninespeed drivetrain shifted with a light touch and a smoothness that we associate with high-end components. Some flex in the aluminum frame and crankset caused the front derailleur to rub on the chainrings when I pedaled hard, and, unfortunately, the brakes felt inadequate Id recommend swapping them for something more powerful. Even so, the CAAD8 exceeds expectations for a bike at this price. You should check one out. Matt Phillips

PRICE

$980
WEIGHT

20.0 lb. (54cm)

M A K E T H E U P G R A D E The CAAD8s pleasing ride is complemented by quality components, with one exception: The Promax brakes we mentioned above feel underpowered and lack modulation, and their heavy pull requires strong hands. Our best advice is to negotiate a discounted price to swap in Shimanos excellent 105 calipers ($120 per pair) with the bikes purchase.M.P.

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LIFE IS A ROAD AND THE ROAD IS MY LIFE

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KONA DR. GOOD


Ill confess, I wasnt sure what to make of the Dr. Good at first. On the one hand, the bike is clearly meant to punch the clock, with its front rack, disc brakes, and rugged butted-aluminum frame. On the other, the cornflower-blue paint, bell, and Schwalbe road-cruiser gumwall tires lend a certain aimless-summer-day

T H I S S T Y L I S H H A R D W OR K E R C A N C A R R Y Y O U T O T H E O F F IC E A N D B E Y ON D
vibe. And the name sounds vaguely like a 90s-era party band. Was this Kona made for the mule train or the boardwalk? I figured some rides would sort it out. Carrying only my laptop, I pedaled home in a drizzle, and the full fenders with mud flaps kept my jeans and bag spotless. Soon after, heading out to pick up new eyeglasses, I loaded the rack with eight pounds of books, including a Philip Roth novel for extra heft. The weight created no perceptible difference in the steady, upright ride as I headed back up the one mild slope toward my office building. Another day, I rode downtown to Rice & Spice, where I bought a 10-pound bag of basmati and a few other itemsnearly 15 pounds of food in all. With the rack filled, I pointed the Kona up South Mountain on Fifth Street. The bike was heavier, sure, but there was plenty of range in the smooth-shifting Shimano Nexus internal seven-speed hub. Coming back down I shifted the rice to either side of the rack, to see if it altered the ride, but at worst the displaced steerage made the bike feel only mildly squirrely. The Dr. Good might just belong in a category all its own. Its a solid light-duty commuter with enough personality that it wouldnt look out of place rolling along a New Jersey boardwalk. Saddle up and say ahh. David Howard

PRICE

$900
WEIGHT

32.6 lb. (61cm)

F U N C T I O N A L F A S H I O N The Dr. Good features an aluminum, wood-lined porteur-style rack, in homage to the way Parisian newsboys carried their papers for delivery. Thanks to this utilitarian DNA, the rack does a great job of carrying compact loads without unsettling your steering, the way larger or flimsier front baskets can. Kona also added a front stabilizer spring to further steady the load.D.H.

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BEGINNER

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FELT VERZA PATH 2 WOMENS $540
J Felts Verza line includes speedy flat-bar road bikes and street-smart city models. This one lands in the middle. Its well suited to bike paths, but the suspension fork equips it to tackle rougher routes. The handlebar sits higher than on many bikes, which makes this model a capable, steady commuter. Whether youre dressed for work or a beach barbecue, the Verza is easy to hop on and go.

to class, grabbing groceries, or just heading out for a leisurely spin. The curved fork blades provide an elegant look, and the upright position helps you spot potholes or wayward texting drivers. The internal, three-speed drivetrain is easy to shift, requires little maintenance, and helps you conquer small hills without sweating through your shirt. Thoughtful touches include a rustproof chain that should withstand seasons of wet-weather riding, and a kickstand that makes parking a snap. Other favorite features: the SR3 tires, which have reflective sidewalls and extra protection to resist punctures, and the custom built-in basketa feature not often found on similar models from other manufacturers.

GIANT VIA 1 W $600 J Giants Via 1 W exudes comfort and style whether youre commuting

JAMIS ALLEGRO COMP $750

J A light, sturdy aluminum frame and carbon fork offer the crisp handling of a standard road bike, ideal for long fitness ridesor even a sprint triathlon. The head-up riding position takes stress off your back and improves visibility, so its also a good choice for less extreme duties like bike-path cruising, commuting, or for road riders who dont enjoy hunching over a drop handlebar.

BH Bikes is proud of our long lineage in the cycling industry; creating innovative bikes for elite athletes to cycling enthusiasts. Our bikes encompass podium proven road and mountain bikes, and our new award-winning Easy Motion electric bikes.

US PAT. 7717212 , 8002301

PATENT PENDING W02008027277

G6 DURA ACE DI2 ROAD BIKE

LYNX 4.8 XTR MOUNTAIN BIKE

NEO CROSS ELECTRIC BIKE

For more information, access www.BHBikes-US.com, www.eMotionBikesUSA.com WorldMags.net or call us toll free at 866-752-4872. EXPERIENCE THE BH DIFFERENCE!

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BEGINNER

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SPECIALIZED TRICROSS SPORT DISC $1,300 J The adaptable Tricross
has everything you need for road rides, long commutes, and even cyclocross racing. Its lightweight aluminum frame puts you in a powerful but comfortable position and the low bottom bracket keeps the bike steady, a feature youll appreciate when riding alongside traffic. The disc brakes offer great control, and frame mounts make attaching racks and fenders a snap.

as Vancouver, Seattle, and Portlandplaces where thousands of commuters ride practical bikes to work, school, and around town every day. That up-close perspective has made the Kona crew believers in utility bikes, and they hope to introduce more people to that type of riding with the speedy, affordable Dew. This no-nonsense, versatile machine blends an upright position with fast-rolling 700c wheels. Throw on a rack and fenders and you have an everyday transport bike. Its also capable of longer outings, if you plan to sign up for a charity ride. The 2014 version has a 6061 aluminum framethe same material used in many of Konas high-end mountain bikesto save some weight. Whether youre going long or just pedaling around the block, the Dew is a reliable option.

KONA DEW $500 J Kona is based in the Pacific Northwest, home to bike-friendly cities such

SPECIALIZED ALLEZ COMP SMARTWELD $1,350 J To shave weight


without sacrificing pedaling performance on the Allez, Specialized employs what it calls Smartwelda manufacturing process that joins frame tubes away from stress points. The carbon fork is the same type used on Specializeds higherpriced Tarmac, and though the DT Swiss AXIS 1.0 wheels arent pro-level light, they should withstand seasons of hard use.

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BUYERS WorldMags.net G U I D E 1 4

WOMENS

T E S T E D

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SPECIALIZED ALIAS PRO

A S M O O T H - H A N DL I N G M U LT I S P O R T B I K E

When cyclists who are considering triathlons ask me which multisport bike to buy, I usually say, None of them. Instead, I suggest they invest in a more versatile road bike, then add an aero bar as they progress. Ive competed on both and find that a road bikes stability and comfort outweigh the minimal performance loss, especially on hilly or technical courses (and training rides). But the Alias has me reconsidering that advice. Designed for women, the bike has triathlon geometry (a 78-degree seat angle) and comes with two multisport components: an adjustable clip-on aero bar and a zero-offset seatpost. A traditional road post is available for $55. To make the Alias even more race-ready, you can add a Remora storage box ($25) to the top tube. Named for a type of fish that hitches a ride with another, the compartment also slightly reduces the bikes drag. Specialized created the Alias for women who want use the same bike for training and sprint- or Olympic-distance races. I was impressed with how well it performed both in and out of the aero position. On a fast, two-hour tempo ride, I spent the majority of the time on the aero bar with little discomfort. The FACT 10r carbon frame made bumpy sections of pavement and railroad tracks less jarring, another quality many dedicated multisport bikes lack. Specialized credits the seatstays: They are flattened to decrease drag in crosswinds, but taper to a round cross section before they meet the seat tube, allowing them to dampen some road shock. When I installed the traditional road seatpost, it helped to further smooth the ride. The bike steered quickly, but not scary fast: It was easy to wiggle the Alias around potholes on the fly, and I quickly got used to moving my hands to the hoods to shift. I also appreciated that, aesthetically, the bike is more road than tri: The compact frame will blend in nicely on a group ride and spare you the embarrassment of showing up to a low-key sprint tri on a machine that resembles something out of Battlestar Galactica. The Alias also feels comfortable off the aero bar. The position is relatively upright, similar to what youll find on Specializeds Ruby womens endurance road model. As I spun up climbsaided by the midcompact 52/36 cranksetI sometimes forgot I was riding a multisport bike. At $6,000, this is not the model Id recommend for beginners. Newer riders should look to the $3,300 Comp or $2,600 Sportthey have the same versatile frame and geometry but come with different wheels and components to keep the price down. But if you have the means, the Alias Pro wont disappoint. Its the rare multisport bike that has the potential to serve as your daily driver and still propel you to victory in your next triathlon. Emily Furia

PRICE $6,000 WEIGHT 17.4 lb. (54cm, with aero accessories)


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WOMENS

BUYERS G U I D E 1 4 TESTED

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LIV/GIANT ENVIE ADVANCED 1


I should have felt heavy and sluggish on my postholiday, burn-off-the-excesses ride. Instead, I sliced through a cold headwind and scampered up hills on my first test of the Liv/giant Envie Advanced 1. The Envie was developed alongside Giants aerodynamic offering for men, the Propel. The bikes share tube shapes and other dragreducing innovations (see box) based on reams of wind-tunnel data. But thats where the similarities end. Liv/giant touts the Envie as the first aero road bike for women, and designed it with input from reigning world champion Marianne Vos. The female-friendly geometry includes a shorter top tube, steeper seat angle, and taller head tube than the Propel. The Envie also has a different carbon layup: It uses less material to reduce weight and increase comfort for lighter users, says Giants global product marketing manager, Andrew Juskaitis. On my test rides, the light Envie proved fleet and responded crisply to pedaling input. I had no qualms

A FA S T R I DE F OR W OM E N W HO WA N T E V E R Y A D VA N TA G E
about diving into corners at speed. Giant credits the oversized tapered head tube and fork design for steering precision, but the womens geometry helped, too. On windy days the aero frame and deep-section Giant P-SLR1 wheels put my skills to the test. Even a slight crosswind on a descent had me struggling to hold my line. I suppose thats one concession of a race bike built primarily to reduce drag. Another may be all-day comfortafter a 70-mile outing, I was wishing for an even more forgiving frame. The Envie wont turn you into Vos. But experienced riders who aspire to glory will find it a worthy choice for gaining that extra edge. Leah Flickinger

PRICE

$4,800
WEIGHT

16.1 lb. (S)

GIANT SPEEDCONTROL SLR BRAKE SYSTEM

The Envie has a proprietary braking system designed for maximum aero advantage. The carbon pieces are molded to mimic the fork blade and seatstay shapes, effectively hiding them from the wind and minimizing drag. The braking quality is solid, though the front calipers occasionally moved out of alignment and rubbed the wheel rim.L.F.

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More than thirty years ago, Keith Bontrager took some discarded 700c road rim trash, and reworked it into a lightweight, race-ready, 26-inch mountain bike treasure. He dove into a dumpster and came out smelling like a legend (ok, a little like cabbage, but mostly legend). That legendand the obsession with doing it ourselves until its rightcontinues today with the best-in-class Wheelworks products, hand built with pride and passion in Wisconsin, USA. bontrager.com/wheelworks

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D3 Dual Directional Design

Our exclusive D3 prole reduces drag on both the tire-leading and rim-leading edge. This not only makes you faster, it gives you more control in a crosswind.

Shape is more important than depth.


Our D3 rim shape is so aerodynamic that even our shallowest rims compete with other brands deeper wheels. Shallower is better.

200

150

Drag (grams)

100

Bontrager Aeolus 5 D3 (50 mm) Brand Z (58 mm) Brand H (46 mm)

50

0 0 2.0 4.0 6.0 8.0 10.0 Yaw (degrees) 12.0 14.0 16.0 18.0 20.0

bontrager.com/aeolus

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Gain everything. For less. Bontrager wheel upgrade.

RXL TLR

Aura 5 TLR

Aeolus 5 D3

XXX TLR Disc

Rhythm Elite

Nothing improves the ride quality of a bike like upgraded wheels. Take your new bike to the next level with a second set of wheels. Carbon, aero, light weight, tubeless, or bomberall available at sharp discounts when you buy a new Trek road or mountain bike.

Road wheelsets RXL TLR Aura TLR Aeolus D3 Clinchers (all depths)

MSRP $999.99 $1,199.99 $2,699.99

Upgrade $799.99 $999.99 $1,999.99

Mountain wheelsets Rhythm Elite (26" / 27.5/650b / 29") RXL TLR Disc XXX TLR (26" / 29") Rhythm Pro Carbon (26" / 27.5/650b / 29")

MSRP $999.99 $999.99 $1,199.99 $2,199.99

Upgrade $799.99 $849.99 $999.99 $1,699.99

Wheel upgrade pricing good for 30 days from the date of your Trek bicycle purchase, until 6/30/14. Valid for one pair of wheels per purchase of Trek road or mountain bike. Visit bontrager.com to nd a participating retailer.

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With some discarded parts and a hacksaw in a small garage, Keith Bontrager laid the foundation for Bontrager Wheelworks. A heritage built on the commitment to making the best and supporting the best. To tirelessly striving to make our wheels and riders faster, the fastest, and worthy of wearing the Bontrager label. Bontrager Wheelworks and Trek Factory Racing. An international roster, a Grand Tour team. State of the art frames, with the fastest wheels available. Our team. Our heritage. Our future. Ride with us, ride with the best. Go forth and take it.

bontrager.com/wheelworks

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JAMIS QUEST ELITE FEMME


One Saturday I found unexpected time for a ride, so I threw on some cycling clothes, stuffed a leftover scone into my pocket, and headed out. Id been riding the steel-framed Quest Elite for about a week, and I was eager for a longer ride. I got my wish: Several wrong turns later, I found myself on the border of a neighboring state, staring in disbelief at my phones Google Maps app and wondering if my scone would provide enough energy for the predicted two-hour ride home. Taking whatever shortcuts I could, I began climbing a road that had turned from gravel to sticky mud. As the grade steepened, I worked the gears on Shimanos reliable 105 drivetrain, thankful for the compact

P R I C E D R I G H T, T H I S B I K E I S R E A D Y F OR A N Y A D V E N T U R E
crankset. At one point, I turned down a crowded gravel rail-trail. The bikes quick steering helped me dodge walkers and little kids, yet felt stable enough that I could rumble over patches of snow. Jamis optimized the frame angles and tube lengths on this model to better fit female proportions (see box), so the ride felt comfortable whether my hands were on the hoods or in the drops, which provided not only a change of position but also a chance to eke out a little more speed. Toward the end of the ride, with my scone long gone and energy stores nearly depleted, I appreciated the Reynolds 631 steel frame, which smoothed the road, reducing fatigue, and also helped translate the little power I had left into forward motion. The Quest Elite turned an outing that could have become a never-again death march into something more fondly remembered, like an old-school training ride. My first thought upon reaching home was: I have to do this more often. Christine Bucher

PRICE

$1,750
WEIGHT

20.2 lb. (54cm)

F E M I N I N E F I T Compared with a unisex Quest Elite, my 54cm Femme has a shorter top tube. Jamis says the configuration better fits women, who generally have shorter torsos and arms than men. And I agree. The bike was easy to steer, which boosted my confidence and made me feel more in control in almost every situation, whether I was dodging traffic or leaning into downhill corners.C.B.

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SPECIALIZED RUMOR EXPERT 29


Rumor has itRumor has it. Each time I tossed a leg over Specializeds Rumor 29, that catchy earworm by Adele would play in my head on repeat. Yes, this bike makes you want to sing. The Rumors pleasing ride begins with its suspension. The bike feels like it has more than 110mm of travel, easily sinking into and ripping through rocky terrain with a reassuring stability. The front end popped up with ease when I needed to ride over a log and the suspension never bounced harshly, even when I took lazy lines through rock gardens or rolled off a boulder. I tested the Rumor Expert 29, which comes with Fox Float CTD front and rear

W H AT E V E R Y O U R E L O OK I N G F OR I N A T R A I L B I K E , T H I S O N E H A S I T
shocks and a SRAM 2x10 drivetrain. It also has Specializeds AutoSag feature, which takes the guesswork out of setting up your rear shock (see box). The Custom Formula T1 brakes were passable but a bit mushy. I appreciated the Command dropper seatpost and used it often to raise and lower my saddle, but only after swapping it for a shorter versionI could barely reach the pedals when the 100mm model was fully extended. Women like mewith shorter legs and longer torsosmight need to do the same. Speaking of fit, the Rumor has a low, confidence-inspiring 27.9inch standover height (yet still has room for a bottle mountmuch appreciated). The short head tube keeps the bar low, so even with big wheels the bike was easy to maneuver. And at 26.3 pounds, it climbed adeptly and never felt too taxing on long grinds. Turns out that Adeles catchy tune is completely appropriate. Whatever youre looking for in a trail bike, the Rumor does have itand then some.Selene Yeager

PRICE

$4,200
WEIGHT

26.3 lb. (M)

S E T I T A N D F O R G E T I T AutoSag, an exclusive feature on some Specialized bikes, automatically adjusts your shocks sagthats the amount it compresses under your weight. Ideally thats about 25 percent of the shocks travel. Getting it right can involve some tinkering. With AutoSag its a lot easier: You just pump the shock to 50 psi over your riding weight (including all gear and packs), climb aboard, and depress a single release valve.S.Y.

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YES YOU CAN.


CAYO EVO
Performance and professional quality come in an affordable package with the FOCUS Cayo Evo. Theres no better choice for gran fondos, sportives, and weekend racing events. Theres no mistaking the FOCUS lineage in the sporty lines of the Cayo Evo. A compliant carbon frame lets you go further and faster for longer.

www.focus-bikes.com PASSION. PERFORMANCE. /focus.bikes WorldMags.net PERFECTION.

REVIEWED

WOMENS

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BREEZER DOWNTOWN 5-ST $570 J The Downtown 5 makes
it easier to choose your bike over your car for short trips around town, thanks to the chainguard, fenders, and rear rack. Though its not built for speed, the frame delivers a stable ride and the step-through design makes it easy to pedal while wearing everyday clothes.

womens mountain bikes, the Juliana, named for Juli Furtado, a ski racer turned mountain biker who won numerous national and world titles. Furtado now works for Santa Cruz and her new line of four bikes (sold under the Juliana brand) embodies her focus on performance and her drive to get more women on the trails. The aluminum Joplin, named after singer Janis, has 29-inch wheels, a 120mm-travel Fox 32 fork, and 100mm of rear-wheel travel controlled by Santa Cruzs capable VPP multilink suspension. Both the fork and the shock have climb, trail, and descend settings so you can adjust the amount of bounce to suit your terrain. The saddle, bar, grips, stem, and crank are sized to provide women with more control on the trail.

JULIANA JOPLIN SEGUNDO $3,100 J Back in 1999, Santa Cruz Bicycles developed one of the first

DIAMONDBACK LUX COMP $1,000 J Previously offered in


26- and 29-inch-wheel versions, the new Lux is the first Diamondback womens bike with 27.5-inch wheels. The company says the middle wheel size has the stability of a 29er but is more agile. The low top tube, reliable Shimano Deore components, and hydraulic disc brakes make this a worthy choice for XC riders who want a fast, quick-handling bike.

DESIGNED FOR YOUR JOURNEY

PETER SAGAN

TOUR DE SAN LUIS LEADER OF THE PACK

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HONEY ROAD DAY RIDE WOMENS $1,895, frameset J Bostonbased Honey doesnt believe in do-it-all bikes. Instead, each of its frames is designed for a specific use. The Road Day Ride is built primarily for daylong excursions, centuries, and gran fondos. Youll sit more upright than you would on a race bike, which means more comfort on long rides. The beautifully TIG-welded steel frames are constructed in the US.

MARIN RAVENNA T3 COMP 105 WFG $2,100 J A refined frame


and quality components make the Ravenna T3 a smart option for anyone looking for a lower-cost carbon bike. The tapered seat tube and swooping seatstays soak up road buzz, the stout head tube improves steering precision, and lower gears on the compact crank make steep roads hurt a little less.

EDDY MERCKX EFX $2,495 J The carbon-fiber EFX frame is


made to go fast. The bike has a relatively short sloping top tube and taller head tube. Those changes allow the riders pelvis to rotate upward, taking pressure off her back, shoulders, and sensitive saddle area, the company says. The triple chainring adds weight, but its wide range of gears makes ascents easier.

TREK CALI CARBON $3,780 J Women who like fast, crisphandling hardtails will find the Cali hard to beat. The 29-inch wheels help you roll over obstacles, and the gossamer OCLV carbon frame quiets trail vibration. Trek worked with its top female racers on the design; their input led to a frame with a low top tube, which makes it easier for smaller riders to mount and dismount.

TREK SPEED CONCEPT 9.5 WSD $6,000 J For 2014, Trek


revamped its flagship time-trial platform, reducing the bikes frontal area to drop weight and improve aerodynamics. The Speed Concept now comes with six stem-size choices and 14cm of stack-height adjustment to fine-tune fit. Dont like the stock lunar orange frame paint? Treks Project One program lets you choose your favorite color.

SPECIALIZED S-WORKS RUBY $8,500 J The S-Works designation (and the price) indicate this bikes top-of-the-line quality. Vibration-damping Zertz inserts in the carbon frame and fork help smooth the road, and the slackened seat-tube angle, raised bar, and shorter reach are comfortable on long rides. The Shimano Dura-Ace components include carbon tubeless wheels for a velvety, speedy ride.

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INTRODUCING THE GRAND TOUR COLLECTION


Find a Dealer at craftsports.us

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BUYERS WorldMags.net G U I D E 1 4
TESTED BIKES

MOUN TAIN

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NINER RIP 9 1-STAR X7

R E S P O N S I V E , S TA B L E , P L AY F U L A N D A F F O R D A B L E

Six and a half years ago, when Niner cofounder Chris Sugai delivered a RIP 9 test bike to my office, he told me that within a few years the 26-inch wheel would be dead. I rolled my eyes and laughed out loud; at the time, 29er frame geometry was awkward, the parts were heavy, and everything seemed to flex. Sorry for doubting you, Chris. This latest revision of the RIP 9, in aluminum, is about as stiff as the carbon version, with a frame that weighs just 0.65 pounds more. Its handling balances cross- country responsiveness and trail-bike stability. That blend helped the RIP 9 competently tackle rough trails, making it easy for me to dive into steep and nasty terrain that, had I been riding some other bikes, would have made me dismount and walk. Only when I pointed it down near-vertical chutes and approached shoulder-high drops did the 69.5-degree head angle feel too steep.

Rarely, however, did I wish for more travel. Niner increased rear-wheel travel by 5mm, to 125mm, and improved its performance. On the previous frame, the suspension sometimes sank into the middle of its stroke and wanted to stay there. The new setup rides taller, and it reacts faster to small, successive imperfections like braking bumps. It resists bottoming better too; I pushed the shock to its max only on the biggest hits. Although the suspension resisted bobbing when I pedaled in the small chainring, it felt overactive when I pounded on the pedals in the big ringbut many bikes do that, so its not a deal breaker. Besides, a flick of the shocks switch to one of the firmer settings calmed things down. Instead of hydroforming, Niner now shapes the RIP 9 tubes with compressed air in a heated mold. The process makes it easier for engineers to control wall thickness and to create complex shapes, Niner says. To cite just one example, the bent and twisted strut between the seatstay and chainstay is lighter but just as strong as the two-piece hydroformed bridge it replaced. To further boost the frames stiffness, Niner developed stronger, lighter, forged suspension linkages and replaced welded assemblies with forged units, like the one that contains the bottom bracket, suspension pivot, and shock mount. Niners 1-Star X7 build is its lowest-cost package, but its smartly put together. Schwalbes Racing Ralph tires rolled fast and gripped predictably. Theyre paired with rigid American Classic Terrain wheels to give the bike a snappy, high-end feel that belies its price. SRAMs X7 clutch-style rear derailleur kept the chain seated and mostly prevented it from slapping against the lower stay. I wouldnt expect a dropper seatpost at this price, but Niner should have included a quick-release lever instead of a bolt. The wheel-size debate rages on, with 27.5 challenging the 29ers, but no matter what happens, the RIP 9 1-Star X7 is a great value. I only laughed this time when I was riding itand having fun.Ron Koch

PRICE $3,000 WEIGHT 28.7 lb. (L)


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ROCKY MOUNTAIN THUNDERBOLT 750


A N I M B L E B I K E M A DE F OR H A R D R I DE S
Id been waiting for a bike like the Thunderbolt for at least a decade. Thats about how long ago I began to savor (not just endure) daylong rides with thousands of feet of elevation gain and tight, steep, descents that make your eyes water. My ideal bike for such an adventure would have limited travel, an efficient suspension, and relaxed frame angles to keep it steady at speed. When I first saw the Thunderbolt, I thought it might be the one. It has a stiff aluminum frame, 120mm of travel, and 27.5inch wheels that allow for a relatively short, quickhandling rear end. Crucially, the head-tube angle is 68.5 degreesabout a degree less than many bikes with similar travel, to keep it calm at speed. On my first ride aboard the Thunderbolt, I descended a trail named West Leg in Nevadas Bootleg Canyon. The bike quickly revealed its potential. The path twisted around volcanic outcroppings, climbed over scabrous boulders, and dropped sharply into gullies, losing 10 to 15 feet of elevation in a few bike lengths. On wrinkles in the trail that demanded deft steering and (simultaneously) a measure of control, the Thunderbolt felt like the bike I had been longing for. On subsequent rides, the Rocky continued to flash that brilliance. Notably, the rear suspension impressed me with its ability to absorb big hits without getting knocked off its line. But other times the Thunderbolt left me wanting. The suspension occasionally felt too soft while climbing. And at 29.3 pounds the bike seemed heavy for a model with this amount of travel, even at this price. I still enjoyed the Thunderboltit came so close to fulfilling my longing for a short-travel trail bike with downhill muscle. And with a few tweaks, it just might get there yet.Louis Mazzante

PRICE

$3,300
WEIGHT

29.3 lb. (L)

R E M O T E C O N T R O L Rocky Mountain tunes the Thunderbolts rear suspension to remain active as you pedal, which improves traction while climbing uneven trails. But it also bobs under hard efforts in some gear combinations. To firm the rear end, Rocky includes a bar-mounted remote that allows you to easily toggle between the Fox shocks three damping settingsthe firmest nearly locks it out.L.M.

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GT SENSOR ELITE
Last summer I tested a $7,000 carbon version of GTs redesigned Sensor on the sprawling trail network near Park City, Utah, and was impressed with the 27.5-inch wheels, new suspension, and updated geometry. I wondered how those changes would feel on the more reasonably priced, 130mm-travel Sensor Elite. I worried that at 32 pounds, the aluminum version would feel less lively. But the bikes geometry is the same as on the carbon version, and on my first test ride I found that the suspension worked just

R U L E T H E T R A I L S ON A MODE S T B U D G E T
as flawlessly. I noticed the weight only on steep climbs. The new AOS suspension is a completely revamped version of GTs i-Drive design, with new chainstay pivots, a stiff swingarm, stout 15mm axles, and a lightweight forged linkage. Changes in tuning allow it to respond quicker to smaller bumps, so you have more traction while scrambling up loose climbs. Even with those changes, the design felt as crisp and efficient as the old i-Drive. Compared with the previous Sensor, this one has a longer top tube, which creates a more stable front end. The relatively short 80mm stem kept my weight centered just behind the front wheelI was in a good position to tackle steep descents and attack corners at full speed. The rest of the components accentuated the Sensors aggressive ride. Formulas C1 brakes were surprisingly powerful, the 740mm-wide bar made controlling the bike easier, and Shimanos clutch-equipped rear derailleur kept the chain seated. The RockShox Sector fork felt underdamped on challenging terrain, but worked well everywhere else. This Sensor wasnt as irresistible as the one I tested in Park City, but it came close, and that makes it a great option for trail riders on a budget.Ron Koch

PRICE

$2,820
WEIGHT

32.1 lb. (L)

SWEET SUSPENSION

The Sensors single-pivot AOS suspension has a rearward wheel path to help absorb sharp impacts. Those designs typically have more pedal feedback, but GTs Pathlink linkage, which houses the bottom bracket, rotates rearward as the bikes swingarm moves to absorb the blow. That limits chain growth, keeping the suspension active with less feedback.R.K.

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SALSA SPEARFISH 1
Three years ago Salsa introduced its popular Spearfish, a fast, sharphandling bike made for long, adventurous rides. It was a great model for the price, but its single-pivot suspension (with flexing seatstays) stiffened under braking, and the shock needed some platform damping to keep it controlled while climbing. This year, Salsa addressed

F OR T HO S E W HO C ON S I DE R 4 0 -M I L E R I DE S J U S T A WA R M- U P
those weaknesses by licensing suspension engineer Dave Weagles Split Pivot design, which helps the shock absorb bumps when youre stomping on the pedals or slamming on the brakes. Altering a well-liked bike can be risky, but the gamble paid off. At about 5.4 pounds, the new Spearfish frame is only slightly heavier than the previous version. Rear travel remains 80mm, but the bike feels stiffer and reacts more sharply to rider input. The Split Pivot design reduces the effects of braking and pedaling forces on the suspension, and does a better job resisting bobbing. The bikes rear end tracks more smoothly over choppy terrain and finds traction whether youre bouncing over roots or climbing granite boulders. The shock slides evenly through its stroke on larger impacts, which helps keep the bike steady on tough trails. Compared with similar 29ers, this one has relatively short chainstays and a longer top tube, which give it a balanced ridestable when youre on the gas yet nimble enough to let you weave around tight switchbacks. The new suspension adds $200 to the cost of a frame, but nicely equipped, complete models start at less than $2,750. There are lighter bikes available, but they cost more, making this one a relative bargain for its weight. Its fast, efficient, nimble, and enjoyable to ride for hours, just the way Salsa intended. Louis Mazzante

PRICE

$4,100
WEIGHT

25.1 lb. (M)


SPLIT PIVOT

Salsa is the first American brand to license Dave Weagles Split Pivot suspension design. As its name suggests, the key feature here is the rear pivot, which rotates concentrically around the rear axle, separating the shock from the forces associated with braking and acceleration. That allows us to tune the shock to do what its supposed to: Absorb bumps, says Weagle.L.M.
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CONTROL YOUR CHAOS


Introducing Repack with MLink Technology. repack.breezerbikes.com

REPACK
Available April 2014
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KILL PAIN
RIDE IN COMFORT
Koobis state of the art Personal Ride System (PRS) delivers more comfort and control than any other saddle. The PRS features two 10mm vertical compliance elastomers that absorb road impact and vibration ,reducing fatigue while providing all day ride ability. Koobi custom builds this system into each saddle by installing one of ve different rmness (color) elastomers. For even further PRS rider neALPHA tuning, two SADDLE extra pairs Ti Alloy are included Rails. with each Available order. in Black, White or Black with Red and White. PRS TECHNOLOGY Tunable Vertical Compliance, because no two riders are built the same. Five rmness elastomers available per rider weight.

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REVIEWED

headquarters, expect to roll trails that are steep, rocky, and unforgivinggood proving ground for the SB75s aggressive nature. The bike pairs Yetis Switch suspension with a new 5-inch-travel frame built around 27.5-inch wheels. The tweener hoops help make the SB75 agile enough to rail corners and pop through choppy lines at speed, and the dual-link suspension has a unique eccentric lower pivot that switches directions halfway through its travelresulting in surprisingly efficient pedaling. Add in a relatively slack (67.6-degree) head angle, low bottom bracket, and longish top tube, and you get a bike that doesnt shy away from aggressive terrain. It might even be enough for you to keep up on that lunch ride.

YETI SB75 RACE $4,900 J If you join the daily lunch ride that starts at Yetis Golden, Colorado,

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$2.95 shipping.
Visit our website or call the saddle experts to discuss your saddle.

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TREK FUEL EX 5 29 $1,980 J The most affordable model in Treks extensive Fuel EX lineupwhich now includes both 29- and 26-inch optionsthe EX 5 is a versatile bigwheeler with 120mm of travel. Part aggressive trail bike and part nimble XC machine, the EX 5 29 feels steady on a wide range of trails and comes with several premium touches, including a custom fork offset for better handling at lower speeds.

BMC TF03 SLX $4,000 J BMCs redesigned-for-2014 Trailfox


frames have 29er wheels, making them better suited for aggressive trails, the company says. The TFO3 has 150mm of travel with a long and low profile: a slack 67-degree head angle, short chainstays, and a long top tube. To tighten up the rear triangle for enduro racers, designers moved the seat tube forward and mounted the front derailleur directly to the rear swingarm to create quicker handling.

www.koobi.com 877-743-3566

Assembled in Colorado USA from Italian parts

Southern Colorados Spring Gravel Grinder Ride into History! Scenic 160, 90 and 50 mile routes!

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PIVOT MACH 429 CARBON XT/XTR $5,800 J This carbon trail


bike has everything riders love about the aluminum Mach 429 and comes in a lighter, stiffer, and more agile package. For a bike with just 100mm of travel, the new 429 can handle gnarly terrain. The difference is in the details: A slightly slacker head angle, lower bottom bracket, and shorter chainstays compared with the aluminum version make this model more playful on descents.

INTENSE TRACER 275 X0 1 $6,050 J This update comes


with 27.5-inch wheels. That hoop size balances stability and agility and combines nicely with the stiff, US-made aluminum frame. This version retains the multilink VPP suspension, which can be adjusted from 5.5 to 6 inches. The bike's relatively slack angles make it easy to control at higher speeds, yet the short rear end keeps it nimble, making it ideal for enduro racing and all-mountain riding.

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Stay Tuned.
Some days, the quality of the ride is determined by the quality of the tools.
2014 Park Tool Co. PARK TOOL and the color BLUE are registered trademarks of Park Tool Co.

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ELECTRA TOWNIE GO!


A N AT T E N T I O N - G E T T E R W I T H P E P

When you ride a bike, you notice things. The dog thats always tied up outside, no matter the weather. The curious vegetable garden that employs rubber snakes to ward off predators. The field full of rotting pumpkins that never had a chance to be jack-o-lanterns. You take it all in. Its what you do. But when I breezed along the roads, through the parks, and down the alleys of my neighborhood on the Electra Townie Go!, I found myself seeking out peopleto see if they noticed me. In my eyes, I was a sight to behold, a smiling girl on a sky-blue cruiser. A bike that looks like it should be lazily rolling along the boardwalk. So how is it that I didnt think twice about coaxing it into light traffic? That I felt the need to tellnot ask friends and neighbors to take it for a spin? And that the reactions I got ranged from Whoa, thats trippy to Neat to This is my kind of bike. Its simple. The Go! is Electras first e-bike, its Balloon model with

a boost (step-over frame for men, stepthrough design for women). Powered by a rechargeable battery and SRAMs E-matic propulsion system, this pedal-assist bicycle features a two-speed transmission that automatically shifts between a low gear (for acceleration and climbing) and a high one (for cruising at a decent clip). Inside the rear hub, a 250-watt motor senses the riders pedal input and adjusts power output accordingly. Tucked beneath the rear rack is a lithium-ion battery that, when fully charged, will last up to 35 miles. That estimate is on the conservative side, though, says Jackson Lynch, director of marketing and communications at Electra. Depending on rider weight and riding conditions, it could last longer. As for how fast it can go: The pedal-assist system will take you up to just under 16 mph, then its all you, he says. But heres where the tech talk ends. While many e-bikes come with more bells and whistlesand a thick owners manualthe Townie Go! is as basic as it gets. It has no throttle to twist for an extra jolt, no digital display to view regenerative braking condition, no power levels to select, no gears to change. To turn it on, just push the button on the battery and youre ready to pedal. And isnt that what this kind of bike should be? After all, theres no learning curve to operate one. According to the companys website, the only hard part about riding an Electra is choosing which one to get. The Go! is no exception. Like the rest of the brands cruisers and city bikes, this one is for the person who wants to go for a laid-back roll with friends or bounce down the bike path in flip-flops, and shop for the coolest accessories to adorn it with. None of that has changed. It just got a little easier. And a whole lot more fun.Jennifer Sherry

PRICE $2,300 WEIGHT 56.0 lb. with battery (one size)


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BMC ALPENCHALLENGE AC01 105


The language in bicyclemarketing materials tends to gravitate toward hyperbole. Its no different with BMCs AC01, but one often-repeated word amid the heated prose was appropriate: faster. Frankly, Im used to urban utility bikes being completely capable and basically boring. Leaden. But on the AC01, theres no such letdown. The 23-pound commuter doesnt feel or move precisely like a 14-pound superbike, but it is much closer than the average urban option. From the first acceleration, its apparent. You notice less heft from the bike, so it feels like more of your effort is going into pushing the AC01 forward. The lively front end

A U T I L I T Y B I K E T H AT M A K E S Y O U R C HO R E S F L E E T A N D F U N
certainly factors into the bikes quickness. Its handling seems darty. Subtle shifts of the handlebar create sharp course changes. Its a little like, Whoa, at first, until you learn to temper your inputs and trust the front ends precision. Youll want to go easy on the brakes too. The Shimano hydraulic stoppers are smooth and the power is goodperhaps too good. The rear brake locks up easily and requires a light touch. I have nothing but praise for the Shimano 105 drivetrain, which is as smooth, quiet, and precise as ever. Theres some clever functionality built into the AC01 also, including the capacity for fenders and lights (see box). Im not a fan of dark and stealthy paint on a bike that is intended for riding in traffic and at dawn and dusk, but at least many of the larger logo stickers are highly reflective. This is the rare case where the bike lived up to the marketing hype. No matter where youre going, the AC01 will get you there fast. Matt Phillips

PRICE

$1,900
WEIGHT

23.6 lb. (M)


F A B F E AT U R E S

The ACO1 comes ready for three near-custom accessories: Full-coverage front and rear Curana fenders ($180) install quickly and are just as easy to remove, a securely mounted lighting kit from Sparse ($139) matches the bikes styling, and the post and wheels can accommodate ixows novel security system ($89), which uses gravity to lock the components.M.P.

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THE KEYS TO A HAPPY BIKE? WorldMags.net CLEAN. LUBE. PROTECT.


Chris Bondus, WD-40 BIKE Tech Support Team

You ask a lot of your bicycle. And, every now and then, it needs something from you. WD-40 BIKEs complete line-up helps you give special attention to the bike you love, keeping it happy and rolling for miles.

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Wash bikes regularly to keep grunge from wreaking havoc. Start with WD-40 BIKE Heavy Duty Degreaser to remove gunk from the drivetrain. Next, bring on the suds with WD-40 BIKE Foaming Wash to remove grime and leave your entire bike sparkling clean. Both products are safe for all frame and component materials.

Well-lubed chains keep bikes rolling for miles. WD-40 BIKE Dry Lube protects your chain and repels dirt in arid or dusty conditions. WD-40 BIKE Wet Lube forms a durable, wet coating that holds up to weather, water and mud. Neither lube uses wax, which can leave a sticky residue on drivetrains.

Once your bike is cleaned and lubed, its time for a nal coat of protection. WD-40 BIKE Frame Protectant prevents the build-up of dirt, dust and grime. It instantly restores scratched areas and the luster of clear coats, carbon and other nishes.

Ask for WD-40 BIKE products at your favorite bike shop. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @WD40BIKE.

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PASHLEY GUVNOR
Many of you reading thisprobably most of youshould not buy this wonderful bicycle. It is too peculiar and too purposeful in its peculiarities. The Guvnor is a path racer, a style of bike made for competing on velodromes and unpaved roads in the early 1900s. Hewing to its heritage, this one is hand-built in Englandin Stratford-on-Avonfrom Reynolds 531, a pass steel tubing that upon its introduction in 1935 had a long reign as one of the best frame materials in the

Y O U P R OB A B LY S HO U L DN T B U Y T H I S W ON DE R F U L B I K E
world. The bottom bracket is so high it is almost level with the hubs, the head and seat angles are a superslack 68 degrees, the fork juts forward about three times farther than that of a typical modern road bike. The build is rounded out with 28-inch wheels, bolton seatstays, drum brakes, and a Sturmey-Archer thumb-shifted three-speed rear hub. The ride is unlike any Ive experienced on a bike: floppy and nearly dangerously impetuous to start, then ever smoother and stable as it is fed speed, until, finally, like a roller-coaster car, it begins to carry the rider along for the controlled thrill. You feel as if youre flying, even though this is not a fast bike. Nor is it practical. Its big and heavy. You could fit fenders, but you shouldntit ruins the authenticityand there are no mounts for bottle cages. Its not a great racing bike, townie, commuter, or ideal for chasing fitness goals or even for riding paths in the modern sense. Its part scorcher, part forcats de la route, part rebel, and part dandy. Its one of the most distinctive bicycles Ive ever ridden, and I want to buy one. Im not sure you should. But if you do, youre the kind of person Id like to ride with.Bill Strickland

PRICE

$1,695
WEIGHT

31.4 lb. (22.5 in.)

A B O U T T H E F I T I typically ride a 54cm road bike but of the Guvnors three sizes (20.5, 22.5, and 24.5 inches) I chose the middle one, which is the equivalent of a 57-inch seat tube. This is how path racers were sizedwith almost no seatpost showing and no standover clearance. On the smaller model Id have been too scrunched to experience the authentic feel of the ride.B.S.

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Organic EDEN Mesli cereals cold or hot morning, noon or night, as a meal or a snack, excellent in baked goods too. Three whole grains, three antioxidant rich dried fruits, and two delightfully crunchy seeds. No rened sugars or chemical additives, low sodium. EDEN Mesli is excellent food that provides lasting energy and sets a positive tone in any day.

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REVIEWED

The worlds most powerful indoor bike trainer.

ing lines. Paul Budnitz, the bikes creator, meticulously engineered the frame to create an appearance thats as visually intriguing as it is functional. The swooping twin top tubes act like a bridge truss, flexing slightly to smooth road shock. Budnitz chose a segmented design for the half-crown fork for the opposite reason: He believes unicrowns are too flexible to work with disc brakes. The result is a tough yet elegant city bike that begs to be ridden fast, even in dodgy conditions. The carbon belt drive is just as cool and can be paired with a singlespeed drivetrain or a 14-speed Rohloff internal transmission. The components, like the design, are clean and quiet, great for city riding.

BUDNITZ NO. 3 STEEL $2,600 J The first thing you notice about the Budnitz No. 3 is the strik-

KHS IPED $420 J With small wheels and a folding handlebar and seatpost, the iPed fits easily into a closet, on the train, or in your work cubicle. The 16-inch rear and 12-inch front wheel provide a sharp-handling rideideal for navigating busy streets. Its aluminum frame keeps the weight down, which youll appreciate while hauling it up stairs. And the telescoping stem and microadjust seatpost make the iPed easy to unfold when its time to get rolling.

VIVA JULIETT $730 (3-SPEED VERSION) J The Juliett is fash-

KICKR

ioned after the Dutch omafiets, or granny bikes, that rule the streets of Amsterdam. Like those models, this one has a step-through frame, comfortable upright position, and smart features like racks, fenders, and a chainguard. But the Juliette is as elegant as it is practicalits swooping frame tubes, ornate details, and classic design will add style to your trips around town.

$1099.99 MSRP
iPhone controlled resistance and power threshold Ultra-realistic road feel Direct power measurement at the hub Adjustable and portable Whisper quiet even at high RPMs

SOMA PICK-UP ARTIST $1,500 J Instead of placing the load


behind the rider, as on many long-tail cargo bikes, the Pick-Up Artist carries it up front, low to the ground and directly on top of the 20-inch front wheel. The front rack attaches directly to the frame, so you can haul up to 150 pounds safely and with little impact on the steering. The frames low standover height makes it easy to get rolling, even if youre carrying a box full of anvils.

CURRIE EFLOW E3 NITRO $3,500

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Experience iPhone powered cycling at wahootness.com/kickr

J Unlike the down-tubemounted batteries on many electric bikes, the eFlows juice sits inside its massive seatpost. That centers the weight beneath the rider to improve handling and reduces the risk of battery theft. The bikes 500-watt motor gives a nice boost. You can use the bikes stem-mounted LCD computer to preset the amount of power you get while pedaling, or just twist the throttle and go.

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WHEREVER YOURE GOING, WEVE GOT YOU COVERED.


A LOT GOES INTO AN EPIC RIDE: ROUTES, CONDITIONS, BIKES, BODIES. THAT LAST ONE REQUIRES A PERSONAL TOUCH. WITH SAFE AND PROVEN FORMULAS, CHAMOIS BUTTR PRODUCTS HELP YOU GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR BODYBEFORE, DURING AND AFTER EVERY EPIC RIDE.

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Chamois Buttr and eurostyle chamois creams comfort and protect sensitive skin where it contacts the saddle. Available in Original Chamois Buttr, Her Chamois Buttr for Women, and eurostyle formulas.

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GEAR

BUYERS WorldMags.net G U I D E 1 4

ANA NICHOOLA HELLO YELLO COMMUTER JACKET


PRICE $180
P H O T O G R A P H B Y T R E V O R DI X O N

Anna Glowinskia former British youth national mountain bike and cross champdesigns stylish and practical clothing for female cyclists under the Ana Nichoola label. Her commuter jacket seamlessly merges fashion and function: A peplum shape protects you from road spray and creates a flattering silhouette, and eye-catching grommets double as underarm vents. A sealed zipper, cinchable cuffs, reflective panels and piping, and cheery yellow water-resistant fabric make cold and drizzly rides much more bearable.Emily Furia

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BUYERS G U I D E 1 4

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GRAN FONDO // A L L - D AY C OM F O R T F OR R O A D E N T H U S I A S T S
1. GIORDANA EXO KNICKERS, $325, JERSEY, $260
Designed to improve muscle compression and increase aerodynamics, the EXO knickers and jersey fit snugly yet comfortably, with little bunching. Despite the knickers below-the-knee cut and the jerseys long sleeves, the pieces are made for warm weather; the extra length aids in compression and airflow, Giordana says. A flap over the jersey pockets helps improve aerodynamics, but hinders regular use. Matt Phillips

2. SHIMANO C35 WHEELS $2,000


This 1,500-gram clincher wheelset is perfect for a grand fondos long days, varied terrain, and unpredictable weather. It nicely balances quick acceleration and lateral stiffness. The aluminum brake track, while heavier than carbon versions, offers better stopping power thats easier to control, especially on wet roads. Shimanos top-end hubs roll smoothly, are easy to repair, and use some of the best quickreleases weve tried. M.P.

3. SIDI GENIUS FIT CARBON SHOES $240


An unyielding carboncomposite sole makes this the stiffest midrange Sidi Ive worn. It has a snug, low-volume fit that keeps you connected to your pedals, but likely means youll need a larger shoe, so be ready to try a couple of sizes. Like all shoes from Sidi, the Genius is made in Italy and comes in a wide selection of full and half sizes. The shoes are formfitting, but youll want to give yourself a few hours to break them in. M.P.

4. WAHOO RFLKT+ SMART BIKE COMPUTER $130


Connect the RFLKTs remote display to an iPhone or Android device and the customizable screen will show ride data collected by compatible cycling apps. It includes a precise barometric altimeterand can link ANT+ and Bluetooth accessories to your mobile phone. Battery life is impressive: I got 5.5 hours out of a fully charged iPhone connected to a RFLKT, heart-rate strap, and speed/cadence sensor. M.P.

5. FIZI:K VERSUS X ARIONE SADDLE $200


Made for long rides, the Versus X has a deep channel to relieve pressure on your sensitive parts. The firm padding doesnt compress under body weight, so I felt the ridges on each side of the 20mm-deep cutout on every outingits not the most plush saddle, but thats not the point. I dont have numbness issues so I cant speak to the designs effectiveness, but it significantly reduced perineal pressure. M.P.

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WOMENS GEAR //
1. DEMARCHI WOMENS VELOCE ROAD BIB SHORTS $190
Italian company DeMarchi has been making innovative apparel for almost 70 years. (Its sister company, Cytech, makes chamois for brands such as Assos and Rapha, as well as pads exclusive to DeMarchi.) The Veloces slightly compressive fabric panels support your musclesincluding your core, thanks to a high-cut waist. A womens chamois with an antibacterial lining hugs the body without bunching. Leah Flickinger

P R ODUC T S T H AT F I T Y O U R B OD Y A N D R I DI N G S T Y L E

2. SPECIALIZED WOMENS CASCADE XC SHOES $275


The lightweight Cascade XC is comfortable and sleek. The outsole and footbed are designed to work with your foots shape to reduce fatigue and increase power. The integrated tongue and padded heel conform to your feet, preventing the shoes from slipping as you ride. Two hook-and-loop straps and a Boa lace closure keep you locked in while offering sufficient adjustments to minimize irritating pressure points. Erica Yozell

3. TERRY BUTTERFLY CENTURY SADDLE $164


This sleek but oh-socomfortable touring saddle is the first addition to Terrys best-selling womens Butterfly line in six years. An innovative shockabsorbing material called Poron XRD (used in protective sports gear) soaks up road vibration. The lightweight material allows for a narrower profile than many touring saddles and also the widest cutout in the Butterfly family. The noseam Lorica cover delivers a chafe-free ride. L.F.

4. OAKLEY MISS CONDUCT SQUARED SUNGLASSES $160


This update to Oakleys popular Miss Conduct is ideal for riders who seek eyewear that looks as good as it performs. The new shape is stylish yet blends seamlessly with such technical features as grippy nose pads and impact-resistant lenses with exceptional UV protection. The black iridium lenses (tested) made for clear visibility in bright sun and overcast weather. The rimless construction reduces weight. L.F.

5. OSMO FOR WOMEN DRINK MIXES $1.25 to $2.20 per serving


A womans monthly cycle affects the type of fuel her body relies on during exercise. Stacy Sims, PhD, developed OSMOs womens line to provide nutritional support before, during, and after a ride, no matter what the hormones are doing. I tested the drinks during an OSMO camp and at races; they seemed to prevent the sluggishness I feel at certain times of my cycle.Selene Yeager

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ROAD RACE //
1. POWERTAP GS HUB $1,090
The new GS boasts reliable internals from renowned wheel maker DT Swiss. It lets you swap driver shells so your hub remains compatible with evolving axle standards and cassette configurations. PowerTap also uses straight-pull spokes, which it claims can be attached to the rim with higher tension to create a stiffer wheel. The battery and electronics are packed into a cap that pulls off for repairs, so you can still ride the wheel. Matt Phillips

T O OL S T H AT H E L P DE L I V E R T H E S P E E D Y O U N E E D

2. MAD ALCHEMY GENTLEMANS BLEND EMBROCATION $20


Rub this gentle warming balm onto your legs to warm up your muscles. Unlike some stronger formulations, this ones heat is faint; its made for the milder temperatures of late spring and early summer. I found the aroma pleasant and the mix of cedar and rosemary woke up my senses on morning rides. Apply precisely: The apricot-colored salve can stain light-colored cycling clothes. M.P.

3. SPECIALIZED S-WORKS EVADE HELMET $250


The Evade aero helmet is designed to help you slip easily through the wind. It is reasonably light and well ventilated, though some other models feel cooler. Inside, the helmets shape is not too round and not too oval; it should fit lots of riders comfortably. The thin chinstrap is hardly noticeable. Does this unique helmet make you faster? Wind-tunnel data suggests it will, but average riders might not notice much difference. M.P.

4. K-EDGE PRO ROAD CHAIN CATCHER $30


The US-made Pro Road is the latest and most secure version of K-Edges popular chain catcher. New is a lower bolt that prevents the device from rotating in high-load situations. Another improvement: Derailleur adjustment is now independent from catcher adjustment, making the setup of both components easier and more precise. Note: The Pro Road is compatible only with braze-on frontderailleur mounts. M.P.

5. THULE ROUNDTRIP TRANSITION CASE $600


Use this rugged, hardplastic caddy to protect your beloved ride in an airliners cargo hold. It accommodates bikes of almost any size, even beefy 29ers (up to a 46-inch wheelbase) and its internal stowage system doubles as a three-legged workstand. Pack carefully: An empty case weighs 35 pounds, so adding a bike and gear can easily push it over the 50-pound weight limit, and youll incur steep baggage fees. M.P.

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Made in the USA. Ridden Everywhere.

King Matt and his Evergreen PRO Ride with them at sevencycles.com/kingmatt

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WorldMags.net ENDURO ACCESSORIES //


R I DE (A N D R A C E ) A L L D AY, I N C OM F O R T

1. ERGON BA3 EVO PROTECT BIKE PACK $130


Made for enduro races, this backpack offers storage for your full-face helmets and pads. And it also provides a little armor itselfan optional spine protector ($30) slips into a rear compartment to shield you during falls. The 141-gram guard is made of flexible EPS foam and, other than the space it occupies in the pack, goes unnoticed while youre riding. Even when fully loaded the BA3 is remarkably stable and comfortable. Ergon doesnt supply a reservoir, so you can drop in your favorite. Ron Koch

2. RACE FACE DIY WOMENS SHORTS $70


These lightweight womens shorts look and feel minimalist, but the stretchy, abrasion-resistant, and water-repellent fabric is designed to survive abusive trails while providing a comfortable, flexible fit over a chamois. Silky fabric on the inside of each leg slips easily over protection, and an adjustable inner waistband feels soft against your skin. New this year: The shorts come in turquoise as well as last years black, and theres a matching jersey.Jennifer Sherry

3. POC JOINT VPD 2.0 KNEE PADS $120


Made from a viscoelastic polymer dough (VPD) that contours around your knees and stiffens upon impact, these lightweight pads are extraordinarily comfortable and provide surprising levels of protection. A floating layer of softer fabric sits just above your kneecap to limit chafing, and two hook-and-loop straps keep the pads in place. The only drawback is that the VDP material stiffens as temperatures drop. POC also offers a matching elbow guard ($80). R.K.

4. THOMSON ELITE DROPPER SEATPOST $450


Thomson used its experience crafting reliable, good-looking components to create this new dropper seatpost. The Elite has 125mm of adjustable travel and operates smoothly whether youre raising or lowering your saddle. The cam-actuated rebound feels nice and controlled, so theres no pogo-stick action, and the 613-gram post has little side-to-side play. The diminutive release lever is easy to operate and, as a bonus, it takes up hardly any space on your handlebar. R.K.

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WEEKEND RIDER //
1. SKS AIRWORX 10.0 PUMP $50
The SKS pump head is simple to use and fits a variety of tire valvestheres no need to switch parts or use adaptors. A long hose lets you inflate your tube without needing to reposition your wheel, and a broad base and wide handle keep the pump stable while its in use. Each push delivers a good volume of airit took about 20 strokes to fill my road tire. When youre finished, the hose clips neatly to the body of the pump. Brad Ford

RECRE ATIONA L-LE V EL GE A R TH AT WORK S A S H A RD A S YOU DO

2. LEZYNE FEMTO DRIVE PAIR LIGHTS $28/pair


Lezynes Femto minimalist lights come packed with thoughtful details. The lens cover doubles as an on/ off button that also lets you toggle between four blink rates and a steady beam. The short machinedaluminum body holds a silicone rubber strap and composite belt clip that attaches to bags, clothing, or nearly any frame tube. The lights are available individually for $15 or $28 for a pairwhite for front, red for rear. B.F.

3. SHIMANO PD-A600 PEDALS $140


These single-sided pedals engage with an audible snap, so you know youre securely clipped in. They have easily adjustable tension and a wide platform with a large contact area to stand on. Theyre compatible with shoes that have a two-bolt pattern for attaching mountain-bikestyle cleats, which makes them a great choice for riders who stop frequently, commute, or often need to walk in their cycling shoes. B.F.

4. 1UP USA HEAVY DUTY DOUBLE BICYCLE QUIK RACK $530


Made in the United States with high-quality hardware, this aluminum rack attaches to a 2-inch hitch with a wedge-style retention system. Theres no locking pin, but the fit stayed snug throughout our testing. The 47-pound rack holds two bikes, and you can add as many as two more trays ($200 each). It fits most wheel sizes, but the dual ratcheting arms clamp down on your tires, so be careful if your bike has fenders. Ron Koch

5. BELL INDY HELMET $55


Available in two highgloss and three matte colors, the Indy is packed with featuresgenerously sized vents, reflective highlights, and an easily removable visorat a reasonable price. Its contemporary shape works equally well with road, mountain, urban, and even noncycling apparel, so it can protect you on just about any ride. The helmet comes in just one size, but Bells internal ErgoDial system makes it easy to find the proper fit. B.F.

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LIFESTYLE //
1. RAPHA ROCKET ESPRESSO MACHINE $2,500
This limited-edition machine made by Rocket Espresso Milano has a copper boiler with lead-free brass end plates, and its Sirai pressure stat is legendary for its accuracy. But if you have the means to consider this machine, you assume luxury-level operation; you just want that final rationalization. Here it is: Our mechanicwho has the most experienced pull among our staffinsisted on taking it home for extensive testing.Bill Strickland

B E C A U S E E V E N W H E N Y O U R E N O T R I DI N G , Y O U R E S T I L L A C Y C L I S T

2. FYXATION LEATHER SIX-PACK CADDY $60


Milwaukee has long been a city of beer and bicycles, so its fitting that Fyxation, a small company that four years ago began developing stylish urban bike tires in that city, should create this carrier. Part of the companys Tannery collection, it is made out of full-grain leather and latches to your top tube with a sturdy slotted-holeand-ball-stud system. Its either a solution or a personal statementor both. David Howard

3. UPRIGHT CYCLIST DIVISION PANT $130


Made from cotton woven with spandex, these pants are as comfortable as they are practical. The reinforced, gusseted crotch prevents snags on the saddle and the articulated legs wont bunch as you pedal. A high back provides ample coverage, reflective piping gets you noticed after dark, and the buttoned front pockets keep your wallet or keys from slipping out. At your desk they look and feel like a good pair of chinos. Matt Allyn

4. SHINOLA RUNWELL WATCH $550$800


The pairing of bikes and wristwatches isnt new Colnago has released several high-quality iterationsbut the Runwell stands out because timepieces are the flagship product of Shinola, a made-in-Detroit startup. This quartz-movement, stainless-steel chronograph is not light, laterally stiff and vertically compliant, and will never disappear beneath you. It just keeps accurate time and marks you as a cyclist of style.B.S.

5. TIMBUK2 PROOF MESSENGER BAG $190 (small)


Part of Timbuk2s upscale Distilled Collection, the waxed-canvas Proof is finished with leather trim. Timbuk2 didnt skimp on features in its pursuit of style: The bag comes with a smartly angled shoulder strap, magnetic weather flaps that seal automatically when the bag is closed, and a removable cross strap for use while cycling. The Proof is ideal for your next business meeting, trip to the caf, or daily commute. Brad Ford

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Thomas MacDonald; Cour tesy

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CX ZERO
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YOUR BIKE CAN GO THE DISTANCE. CAN YOU?


Patented SportLegs prime your muscles to make less lactic acid and reduce muscle burn, so you always feel like youre having a good day on the bike.

UPGRADES //

C OM P ON E N T S P LU R G E S F OR T H E U LT I M AT E R I DE

1. WHEELS MANUFACTURING PF30 OUTBOARD BOTTOM BRACKET $74$125


Shimano cranks are nice. Many frames with Pressfit 30 bottom brackets also are nice. But the two dont always work together so nicelycombining them often requires a bunch of creak-prone parts and adapters. The Wheels PF30 Outboard is a clean, two-piece aluminum bottom bracket that presses in and threads together for a solid (and so far, quiet) solution. Wheels offers three levels of bearings, including ceramic, as well as an option for SRAM GXP cranks. Matt Phillips

3. RITCHEY MONOCURVE HANDLEBAR $600


At 363 grams, this one-piece bar-and-stem combo is no lighter (or less expensive) than separate parts. But grip Ritcheys Monocurve, stand up and rip off a sprint, and youll get the appeal. Without bolts, the unified carbon construction makes the bar strikingly stiff; its perfect for anyone who rides hard enough to flex a traditional bar. With a 128mm drop and 78mm reach on our 42cm tester (reach varies based on bar width), the Monocurve has excellent ergonomics, but the fixed attachment means you cant change the bar angle.J.L.

2. OSYMETRIC CHAINRINGS $330/pair


Osymetric points to a study that showed a 4 percent gain in watts with its nonround rings. That extra power comes from the TwinCam design, a radically flattened 52-tooth ring that delivers the power of a 49- to 55-tooth design through its revolution. The rings have a kind of pulsing feel, which I got used to within a ride or so. Climbs didnt feel easier, but I went faster.Joe Lindsey

4. SCHWALBE ONE RT TIRE $88


The rap on tubeless road tires has been that the stiff ride blunts the comfort benefit of lower pressures. Schwalbes 285-gram One RT is part of a new crop of tubeless tires with better rubber compounds and casings to improve their connection to the road. The 127-tpi casing feels more supple at lower pressures than standard ones, while the tubeless bead locks tightly to the rim.J.L.

Get yours at sportlegs.com and these ne retailers:

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5. CHALLENGE TUBE $20


If you pair a latex tube with an open tubular tire like Challenges Paris-Roubaix or Criterium, youll get 90 percent of the legendary ride of tubulars with almost none of the equally legendary hassle. Latex tubes do have some challengesthey leak air more quickly than butyl tubes and require more care during installationbut their supple, buoyant ride is worth a little extra effort. And seamless versions, like this one, are less susceptible to flats.J.L.

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2014 SportRx.

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Its that simple. The symmetrical Light Action pedal is always perfectly positioned for you to step down and start riding. With dual-sided entry, theres no looking or fumbling, and when its time to release it just takes a simple twist of your heel. The Light Action pedal system is the easiest, most intuitive system on the road. Learn more at speedplay.com.

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ADVENTURE //
1. DELORME INREACH SE SATELLITE COMMUNICATOR $300
Stay connected anywhere in the world you ride with this 194-gram device, which lets you text and post to social media as well as send SOS messages and communicate with rescue responders in an emergency. It can be used as a stand-alone unit or you can connect it via Bluetooth to your smartphone or tablet to boost its mapping features. Service plans start at $12 a month. Ron Koch

D U R A B L E G E A R F OR T H E L ON G H A U L OR Y O U R D A I LY T R I P S

2. GIRO NEW ROAD RIDE OVERSHORT $150


Giros New Road casual cycling collection might be the most functional style-focused clothing line Ive tried. Thanks to a formfitting cut and Schoellers cozy, fourway stretch fabric, youll almost forget youre wearing these shorts. For extra comfort on long rides, pair them with the New Road bib undershorts ($150), which come with a front fly, hidden rear pockets, and an Italian-made chamois. R.K.

3. CONTINENTAL TOP CONTACT II TIRE $60


The 596-gram Top Contact II fights flats with a layer of Vectran Breaker material under the tread and a beefy three-ply polyamide casing. Its smooth center tread rolls fast, while shoulder blocks boost cornering grip in variable conditions. Its available in diameters from 26 inches to 700c and in multiple widths; my 32mm test pair handled predictably even in dirt. And reflective sidewalls mean your adventure can continue past sunset.R.K.

4. ORTLEIB BACK ROLLER CLASSIC PANNIER $180


Nothing dampens the spirit of adventure like soakingwet supplies. Ortliebs lightweight, waterproof, no-frills sack has a roll-top closure to keep your gear dry, and a single internal mesh pocket to organize your cargo. A clever quickrelease system detaches with a tug of its handle. The Back Roller Classic attached securely to my Tubus Logo Evo rack, and after I installed the included plastic shims, the bag never rattled. R.K.

5. AME HEATED 1.3 TRI GRIPS $200


Heated grips let you use lightweight gloves in subfreezing conditions for better control and dexterity. These 562-gram (with battery) clamp-on mountain bike grips feature integrated power buttons with six settings. Run time varies with ambient temperature and bar material, but the lowest setting kept my hands toasty for 90 minutes in 32-degree weather. Use a carbon bar instead of aluminum to buy more time. R.K.

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ITS THE CAMARADERIE & SPIRIT OF AN EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURE

FIND YOUR RIDE AT BIKEMS.ORG


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WORKSHOP //

K E E P Y O U R B I K E RO L L I N G W I T H T H E S E S M A R T A N D F U N C T ION A L T O OL S

1. PEDROS STARTER TOOL KIT $155


The burrito-style roll contains the essential tools any aspiring home mechanic might need for basic repairs. Nestled inside the packable set are screwdrivers, hex wrenches, cable cutters, and a crank puller. With extra pockets for adding tools as your collection grows, this kit forms a solid starting point for a portable workshop. Mike Yozell

3. WD-40 WET AND DRY LUBES $9


Better known for products that quiet doorhinge squeaks, WD-40 now offers a full line of bike-maintenance products. The chain lube comes in two formulations, one for wet weather and one for dry. The wet has proved to be long-lasting and durable in extreme conditions, while the dry version lubed well and kept grime to a minimum. As a bonus, both have a lightly perfumed aroma. M.Y.

2. BUTTER B1 CHAIN HANGER $50


Smart mechanics use a chain hanger to hold the links of a chain like a cassette would, making bike washes and lube jobs a cinch. Its a simple tool that makes dirty jobs easier. Butters model is made from machined aluminum, has a chain runner made of durable Delrin, and attaches with just one quick twist. The company also makes thru-axle-compatible versions for mountain bikes. There are cheaper options, but Butters American-made B1 will outlast most bikes. M.Y.

4. EVT MEDIEVAL PEDAL WRENCH $131


This US-made tool has three precisely machined 15mm flats, so youll never strip the pedals axle. At 18 inches long, it creates enough leverage to remove stubborn pedals, and the adjustable head makes it easier to find the best angle to loosen the threads. The handles slight outward bend saves your hands from bashing on chainrings. EVT also makes adaptors to fit pedals without wrench flats or that require 6mm wrenches. M.Y.

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5. PARK TOOL TEAM ISSUE REPAIR STAND $340


Sturdy and easy to set up, this portable repair stand quickly became one of my favorites. It has a professional-style clamp that fits frame tubes up to 3 inches in diameter and swivels 360 degrees to make accessing any part of the bike a snap. Plus, the wide, easy-to-brace legs proved sturdy even on slightly uneven ground. The main trunk adjusts as much as 60 inches highbut when folded, it measures 47 inches and fits neatly into the trunk of my car. M.Y.

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MOUNTAIN XC // WorldMags.net SPECIALTY BICYCLE RETAILERS


Bring BICYCLING into your store and enjoy more traffic, more sales and more prot.
G R E AT G E A R F O R R I DI N G FA S T, G OI N G L ON G , O R B O T H

To join our GUARANTEED 1-800-845-8050 ext.2 RISK-FREE PROGRAM call or Email RodaleDirectSales@Rodale.com
Youll receive copies of the latest issue of BICYCLING magazine at no cost to you, not even shipping, and youll receive a FREE custom display rack! Every copy you sell means prot for youat a 40% margin! And you never pay for unsold issues, because you pay us just for the copies you sell, and only after your customers have paid you!

1. ENVE SWEEP BAR $160


When choosing a handlebar, some gramcounting racers make their choice by looking only at the components weight. But durability and comfort deserve equal consideration. The Sweep offers all three traits: Its stiff enough to provide precise steering, adequately damps trail vibration to reduce fatigue, and weighs a respectable 180 grams. I found the bars 740mm length comfortable, but if you prefer yours shorter, Enve includes graduated lines every 10mm that take the guesswork out of trimming. Mike Yozell

www.bicycling.com

2. INDUSTRY NINE TRAIL 24-HOLE 29 WHEELS $1,195


Installing lightweight wheels is a sure way to increase your speed. The Trail 24s weigh a few grams more than the most featherweight hoops, but they incorporate high-performance details into an eye-catching design. The wide, tubelesscompatible rims increase tire volume, so you have better control; the fast-engaging hub gets you rolling as soon as you push on the pedals; and the wheels stiffness propels you forward with little wasted energy. The 1,605-gram Trail 24s come with swappable end caps that are compatible with all current axle sizes. M.Y.

3. MAVIC CROSSMAX SL TI PEDAL $400


The new Crossmax SL, like the Time ATAC that its based on, has an open body that sheds muck well so you can clip in easier after a muddy dismount. But its built with a narrower retention bail that keeps your foot more centered over the pedal for better power transfer. The Crossmax also offers more support under the lugs of your shoes to prevent side-to-side rocking. The premium version with titanium axles weighs 240 grams a set, but Mavic also makes two lowercost versions that are only slightly heavier. M.Y.

4. LIZARD SKINS DSP GRIPS $30


Grip maker Lizard Skins first used DSP (a type of durable shock-absorbing foam) on its bar tape. Having proved the materials value in the rough-and-tumble world of cyclocross racing, the manufacturer has now developed two DSP mountain-bike gripsone is slightly thicker than the other. Weighing a scant 30 grams per pair, the thinner grips I tested have withstood months of hard riding. Both options come in eight colors and are easy to install on almost any bar using double-sided tape. M.Y.

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A DEEPER LOOK AT C A RBON F I B E R S HO W S T H E R E S FA R MOR E TO T H E M AT E R I A L THAN MEETS THE EYE


BY BER NE BROUDY

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Im standing in Earls Cyclery & Fitness in South Burlington, Vermont, looking down a row of carbon-fiber bikes, contemplating the differences between the $1,900 crimsonand-white one in front of me and the $9,000 matte-black beauty at the end of the line.
Ive been around bikes long enough to know that high-end components can make a big difference in the bottom line, but that only accounts for so much. What I want to know is: What about the frames? I lean in close enough that my breath forms condensation on the tubes, but the construction techniques within these bikes clearly lie below the surface. I turn to Joe Drennan, Earls manager, and ask, What gives? He explains that bike makers use several grades of carbon. When you spend more, you get a stronger material, so manufacturers can use less, which makes the frame lighter, he offers. That makes sense, but when I press Drennan on how the grades differ, how they affect a bikes feel on the road, and whether one brands premium carbon bike is like anothers, he goes behind the counter and returns with a stack of catalogs. Clearly, I have homework to do. Back home I flip through the literature and tap into Google. Im bombarded with information. Carbon manufacturing is so complicated and has so many variables that at first I doubt Ill be able to make sense of it. I dont want a masterslevel class in material science, but I want to understand how
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A SINGLE BIKE CAN CONTAIN 500 PIECES OF CARBON, ASSEMBLED IN 40 LAYERS.

these frames are designed so I can make an informed decision. But I persist over the next few weeks, eventually picking up the phone and talking to nearly a dozen carbon-fiber engineers from brands like Cervlo, Giant, Specialized, and Trek. Over time, the mysterious material comes into sharper focus. The most surprising revelation? The carbon used in every single bikeno matter the cost comes from one of just five manufacturers. As I would learn, those fibers can be tweaked a multitude of ways before they end up in a frame, but every bike starts with more or less the same raw materials. Building a carbon bike is like putting people in a kitchen, all with the same ingredients, says Jeff Soucek, director of research and development at Felt Bicycles. Some will be great chefs, and they will make something delicious. Nearly all the carbon produced by the five manufacturers is destined for the aerospace industry (the total amount of carbon used by all bike makers in a year is less than in three Boeing 787 Dreamliners). The Japan Carbon Fiber Manufacturers Association has categorized five grades of the material, four of which are used in bikes and

   

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can help guide your bike purchase. Those grades are defined by, among other things, the carbons stiffness (also called modulus) and tensile strength (which is tested by pulling the material until it fractures). As you move up the scale, the material generally becomes stiffer and more expensive, but not always stronger (see graphic at right). All carbon begins as thin fibers that must first be made into sheets by weaving, or by aligning the strands in a uniform direction before they become part of a bike. Then manufacturers add glue-like resin to create a composite material called pre-preg, which can be cut and layered into complex shapes (See Elements of the Build, page 118). Then things get really interesting. Carbon bikes can contain up to 500 pieces of pre-preg, assembled in 40 or more layersoften combining different grades. Some pieces are as long as a down tube, while others are no bigger than a postage stamp. By using stiff carbon in some places and more forgiving strands elsewhere, engineers can tailor a bikes feel. Thats how a company like Specialized can tune a Roubaix to be comfortable on long rides and make a similarly priced Tarmac ultrastiff. As a bikes structure and tube shapes become more complex, it typically requires higher grades of carbon to hit a manufacturers strength, weight, and stiffness goals. That can significantly add to price. I will never fully understand all the nuances of carbon manufacturing, but the basics now make enough sense that I feel comfortable walking into a shop and selecting a bike. I return to Earls and hone in on two models that each cost about $3,500. Theyre made mostly from midlevel carbon, and when Drennan tells me they both should offer a forgiving ride, I understand why thats the case. Only one question remains: How do I know which one will offer a more pleasing ride? Thats easy, Drennan tells me: You still have to ride the bikes.

MAKING THE GRADE*


STANDARD MODULUS Modulus of 200280 Gpa Tensile strength of 2,500 Mpa or higher Relatively strong and stiff, this is the least expensive form of carbon fiber and is found almost exclusively in entry-level frames. Used In Full tubes, tube junctions, high-stress areas around the head tube, lower down tube, and chainstays (even on some high-end bikes). INTERMEDIATE MODULUS Modulus of 280350 Gpa Tensile strength of 3,500 Mpa or higher The strongest of all carbons, its found primarily on premium frames. Used In High-strain areas like flexing seatstays, and in strength-critical regions, like the top tube, down tube, and parts of the head tube. HIGH MODULUS Modulus of 350600 Gpa Tensile strength of 2,500 Mpa or higher This carbon is on average 62 percent stiffer than standard modulus, but its more brittle so engineers use it sparingly. A high-end bike might contain 25 percent high-modulus fibers. Used In Areas that require extra lateral rigidity, like a down tube, seat tube, or chainstay. ULTRA-HIGH MODULUS Modulus of 600+ Gpa Tensile strength of 2,500 Mpa or higher The stiffest of carbon types, it is also brittle and very expensive. Its used selectively in top-ofthe-line bikes, often with stronger intermediatemodulus carboneven then, it comprises only about 15 percent of the material. Used In Lowimpact zones, like the center of the top tube.

HOW THE FOUR LEVELS OF CARBON USED IN BIKES STACK UP B.B.

MODULUS Stiffness, or how well a material resists stretching.

GPA Gigapascals. Modulus is measured in Gpa.

TENSILE STRENGTH A representation of how much force a fiber can take before failing.

MPA Megapascals. Tensile strength is measured in Mpa.

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*These Japan Carbon Fiber Manufacturers Association standards are guidelines onlybike manufacturers and other makers of carbon goods can label their products however they choose.

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elements of the build

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1

CARBON FIBER // There are two precursors to carbon:


rock-like pitch and polyacrylonitrile (or PAN), which is a fishing-line like filament favored by bike makers. To make fibers ( 1), manufacturers bake the PAN; heating it longer creates a purer, lighter, stiffer product. Premium carbon threads can be as thin as 7 microns, about oneseventeenth the width of a human hair.

RESIN // The glue-like resin (2) epoxy holds carbon


strands in place by filling the gaps between them so they can provide structural integrity. Manufacturers can mix in additives (microscopic rubber balls, for instance) to improve certain performance traits, such as increasing a bikes ability to stay intact during a crash.

PRE-PREG // These are the thin, pliable sheets of fiber


impregnated with resin that, with only a few exceptions, are used to manufacture carbon bikes. Each composite sheet ( 3) has between 3,000 and 24,000 strands of carbon per eighth of an inch. In structural carbonthe type of pre-preg that gives bike tubes their strength and rigiditythe fibers are laid unidirectionally, which makes them stronger. The interlaced weaves you see on many frames are mostly cosmetic, but offer some protection against impacts.

L AY UP //

Manufacturing processes vary greatly between companies (and even by model), but most composite bikes are made by arranging small strips ( 4 ) of carbon around a solid core inside a mold ( 5 ). Heating the mold liquefies the resin, and pressure forms the pre-preg into the shape of the frame.B.B.

Specialized Venge

PIECES OF THE PUZZLE


For engineers, building a carbon frame is like putting together an intricate 3-D jigsaw puzzle. Bikes can have hundreds of pieces, assembled in 40 or more layers. To get it right, designers rely on computer software called Finite Element Analysis (FEA), which helps them determine where they should use each grade of carbon and how best to orient the pieces for

the ideal mix of strength, stiffness, and compliance. Without leaving their desks, engineers can go through hundreds of variations an hour until they strike the right balance. A high-performance bike like Specializeds Venge, shown, requires about 400 individual pieces of carbon. Each color represents a different thickness of the carbon tubes. B.B.

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BEGINNERS

G U I D E WorldMags.net

SHOP
BY

neil bezdek

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SAVVY

Everything you need to know to buy your first bikeplus great new gear that will take your riding to the next level

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If you plan to do more than just salivate over the shiny new bikes in this issue, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed by your options. Before your head explodes, allow us to demystify the process of bicycle buying.
Start by deciding which of the most common fashion accessories, and often have utilitarian bike types makes sense for youmountain, features like rack and fender mounts, an upright road, hybrid, or city/commuter. Next, factor in frame design, and low-maintenance drivetrains. your goals. Consider things like what kind of Choosing between the three depends on how terrain youll ride most, what distance you want hard, how long, and where you want to ride, to cover, and what you want to accomplish. says Mattie Davitt, sales manager at Piermont If youre more interested in exploring off Bicycle Connection in Piermont, New York. road, your choice is pretty straightforward: Many bike makers offer hybrids with highLook for a mountain bike with wide, knobby quality drivetrains and disc brakes. Theyre tires, a flat handlebar, strong brakes, and shocklightweight and fun to ride, making them a solid absorbing suspension thats made for rough, choice for commuters or new riders who want unpredictable trails. Youll then need to decide one bike to run errands, cruise the rail-trail, how much suspension you want (most have and ride with the family. But if youre planning between 4 and 8 inches of travel) and which to burn some serious calories, train for a charwheel size is right for you: 26-, 27.5-, or 29-inch. ity ride, or maybe even sign up for a race, youll Smoother trails require less travel and allow be more satisfied with a road bike, says Davitt. you to use larger, more stable wheels. In terms of versatility, dont discount a road If you expect to spend most of your time on bike just because the name implies a single pavement, your options increase. Depending purpose. Manufacturers are getting better at on your goals, you might want a road bike, a catering to people who want to do more than one commuter, or a hybrid. Most thing, says Nelson Gutierrez, road bikes have smooth, skinny owner of Strictly Bicycles in Fort Lee, New Jersey. They tires and a curved handlebar, and place you in a bent-over see that buyers often want to position suited for speed. use one bike for exercise and Hybrids provide comfort and commuting. With features like BRING ALONG YOUR OLD BIKE stability via moderately thick thicker tires, disc brakes, and a AND EXPLAIN WHAT YOU LIKE tires and an upright riding more upright geometry, many OR DONT LIKE ABOUT IT. position, a compromise that current road models are fast, allows you to ride easily on city efficientand rugged. ASK THE SALESPERSON TO TRANSLATE JARGON Once you decide how youll streets or packed-dirt paths. INTO ENGLISH. Commuter bikes range from use a bike, consider the followsturdy workhorses to stylish ing tips to focus your search.

ITS OK TO

ALLOW AESTHETICS TO INFLUENCE YOUR DECISION BUT NOT TO THE DETRIMENT OF A GOOD FIT.

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1
PRIORITIZE FIT

BUDGET FOR MORE THAN JUST THE BIKE

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NARROW YOUR SEARCH
Try to focus your options to three models based on your budget and intended use. Then make sure you take an adequate test ride of at least 15 to 20 minuteslonger if you can. Before you take that spin, though, ask for fit adjustments and a quick tutorial on how the bike operates, says Gutierrez. You might dismiss an otherwise worthy model if youre stretching to reach the handlebar or fumbling with a type of shifter youve never used.

Decide how much money you want to invest in your cycling goals before you start shopping. Then, regardless of your budget, allocate about two-thirds of it to the bike. Youll want the rest for accessoriesbecause no matter your price range, you still need basics like a helmet, a pump, a water bottle, and bottle cages.

Even a top-shelf bike will be miserable to ride if it doesnt fit. Any good salesperson should help you find the right size, then make at least four adjustments: seat height, saddle position, handlebar height, and reach. Better: Find a shop staffed with a certified fitter who will take precise measurements, set you up on multiple bikes, and swap parts if necessary to dial your position. This kind of service usually costs extra, so factor that into your budget. And beware: Sometimes retailers offer deep discounts on odd-sized bikes left over from past seasons; resist the temptation unless the bike is truly your size.

DRESS THE PART


For test rides or bike fittings, put on the same apparel and shoes you plan to use on actual rides. A bicycle can fit one way when youre in jeans and another when youre wearing cycling shorts.

SEEK PERSONAL SERVICE


Theres nothing wrong with shopping for bargains online. But consider all the advantages of going to a brick-andmortar store. Besides fit sessions and test rides, a shop will ensure quality assembly and might offer free adjustments for a period of time, as well as other discounts on accessories included with the purchase of a complete bike. A shop is also a venue for getting to know other cyclists through organized group rides and events, says Charles von Isenburg, owner of Mock Orange Bikes in WinstonSalem, North Carolina. We invite our customers into the cycling community, he says. Its our greatest service for the new rider.

TEST LOTS OF MODELS


Bike shopping is a lot like buying a house or caryou should rarely purchase the first model you see. If youre still riding the same clunker thats been in your garage since high school, almost any new bike is going to feel amazing, but thats only because the technology has come a long way. On the other hand, an unfamiliar bike at the shop might feel wrong just because its different.

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game changers
WIDE ROAD TIRES Rubber thats 25mm (or wider) lets me run lower pressure and gives me more control. TRY Vittoria Diamante Pro, $64Joe Lindsey, contributor BASE LAYER I ride more in winter now that I know how to layer. TRY Craft Active Extreme with Windstopper, $120 David Howard, executive editor FLOOR PUMP A durable pump with a stable base makes that mandatory preride tire-pressure check fast and easy. TRY Blackburns Air Tower 1, $30 J.L.

BICYCLING EDITORS SHARE THE GEAR DISCOVERIES THAT TRANSFORMED THE WAY THEY RIDE

CHAMOIS CREAM Saddle sores hurt like hell, but theyre entirely preventable. TRY Assos Chamois Crme, $20 Peter Flax, editor-in-chief

BIB SHORTS These address one of my pet peeves: ill-fitting waistbands. TRY Louis Garneau Neo Power Fit Bibshort, $140 Christine Bucher, managing editor

DROPPER POST Lowering my saddle on tricky mountain bike trails gives me more confidence. TRY RockShox Reverb, $384 Louis Mazzante, articles editor

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3
Where to investand where to savewhen accessorizing yourself and your bike
Seatpost Seatstay Cassette Spoke Rear derailleur Chainstay

smart splurges

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SPLURGE ON SADDLE, SAVE ON SADDLE BAG SPLURGE ON SHORTS, SAVE ON JERSEY
A seat bags job is pretty basic, but a saddle can make or break your rideand sometimes the saddle that comes with a new bike might not be the ideal choice for you. A good bike shop will work with you to try different ones, says Davitt.
When it comes to shorts, a higher price almost always means a superior chamois (the padding that provides a buffer between you and the saddle) and better construction, which translates to greater comfort and a more pleasant ride experience.

SPLURGE ON A FRAME PUMP, SAVE ON TUBES

Although they are a few grams heavier, lower-priced tubes are often better able to resist flats than premium options. More expensive pumps, however, will fill your tires faster and require less pumping effort than basic models.

SPLURGE ON SHOES, SAVE ON PEDALS


All the retailers we talked to stressed the importance of contact pointsany place the body touches gear. Compared with pedals, which vary in weight but work similarly across all prices, shoes differ more in quality and fitand you feel them with every pedal stroke.

SPLURGE ON BOTTLES, SAVE ON BOTTLE CAGES


Standard alloy cages are nearly as light as their carbon counterparts and get the job done with no fuss. Pay a few extra bucks for your water bottle, on the other hand, and youll get practical upgrades or, even better, fun graphics that inspire you to get out and ride.

SPLURGE ON LIGHTS, SAVE ON HELMET


Both are designed to protect you. But every cycling helmet sold in the US has to satisfy the same regulations regardless of how much it costs. Spend more on lights, however, and youll get brighter, more effective illumination with longer battery life.N.B.

4 ANATOMY LESSON
Saddle Top tube Brake Seat tube Down tube

KNOW YOUR BIKE PARTS


Handlebar Stem Brake hood (only on a road bike) Shifter Head tube Brake

Headset

Fork

Front derailleur

Tire Rim

Crankarm Chainrings Chain Bottom bracket Hub Dropout

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ALL-STAR FEEDBACK
mary roach
Best-selling author of such titles as Stiff, Spook , and Gulp

CANDID GEAR REVIEWS FROM OUR EXCLUSIVE PANEL OF CYCLING NOTABLES

mike wolfe
Creator and star of History Channels American Pickers

rebecca rusch
World champion endurance mountain biker My mom wears fanny packs. I prefer purses and backpacks. But this pouch is definitely bomber, with an industrial-strength belt and construction that would survive a war. Id use it as a sweet tool bag for travel.

NORTH ST. HIP POUCH // Handmade in Portland, Oregon, with US-sourced materials, this pack has a waterproof liner, an adjustable belt, and a U-lock harness. $48 HERO KIT FOR ROAD BIKES // Not only does this repair kit come with enough tools to fix almost any roadside snafu, it also contains step-by-step instructions on how to use them. $40 If I blew a tire on my way home, Id just throw the bike on the bus rack and take it into the shop later. Im never going to be the gal who replaces a link or tinkers with her gear shifter. I did use the multitool to unscrew a broken bell from my handlebar, and that worked out just fine. I dont drink coffee while I ride, but lets not let that get in the way. This is one versatile holder. It will also hold a cocktail shaker, a large upside-down pear, a soup ladle, a pint glass, and huzzah!my aluminum water bottle, which doesnt actually fit in my bottle holder. This is great for people who bought a bike without a kickstand, came home, smacked themselves on the forehead and thought, What? I really wanted a kickstand. For the rest of us? Im unsure. For solo cyclists or nervous parents, the appwhich tracks you and alerts loved ones if youve been stationary too longmakes some sense. Though I wouldnt give a kid an app that texts you every time he sets the phone down for five minutes.

Perfect size, simple design. I like the removable belt and the two-pocket inside organizer, though it should be removable, too. Great design idea to carry a U-lock. The reflective tape is more than a nice touch, its a must. Its the MacGyver starter kit. The 12-function tool is killer. A rain poncho, duct tape these guys must have served in an Indy 500 pit. The howto guide is full of pictures and the most brilliant thing is the sizedoable for any small seat bag or jersey pocket.

SOMA FABRICATIONS MORNING RUSH COFFEE HOLDER // This stainless-steel cup holder mounts to your handlebar and frees your hands on the way home from the coffee shop. $20 TOPEAK FLASHSTAND SLIM // This portable kickstand slips over your crankarm and props up your bike when theres no rack in sight. $45 ROAD ID APP // This free mobile tool tracks your ride via GPS using electronic crumbs and lets your friends and family know if you are safe when youre miles away from home.

The Soma is sleek, simple and functional. I love the full-page instructions that came with it. Get to a safe place before drinking: Thats sound advice regardless of the situation.

I ride alone all the time and change my routes on a whim. Im also an EMT, so I like the idea of easily accessible emergency info. The app was incredibly easy and fast to set up and start. But if you leave a cell-phone bubble, it may not be reliable.

   

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C a r l y N a i r n ; To d d M e i e r / R e d B u l l C o n t e n t P o o l ; C o u r t e s y

This stand isnt made to store your bikeits made to display it. If you have a friend on your ride whos always showing off, whip out the FlashStand. Your bike will look like a million bucks.

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M AY 1 8
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BUYERS GUIDE

CONTEST

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TO ENTER

STEP 1 Visit BICYCLING.com/strickland to catch up on Bills columns and blogs. STEP 2 Submit a cycling-themed parody of Bill, in 150 words or less, at BICYCLING.com/winabike14. STEP 3 A panel of cyclist luminariesincluding the overgeared scribe himselfwill choose the winning entry. The winner gets to choose any bicycle reviewed in this issue that has a suggested retail price of $4,999 or less.

WA N T TO TA K E HOME A BIC YCLE FROM THIS ISSU E? YOULL N EED TO CH A N N EL YOU R IN N ER BILL STRICK L A N D.

2014 WIN A BIKE CONTEST!

OFFICIAL RULES AND REGULATIONS

It is by riding a bicycle that you learn the contours of a country best, since you have to sweat up the hills and coast down them.
ERNEST HEMINGWAY

I lick a spot on my skin where her sweat was. I am embarrassed to do it, but when I taste nothing more exotic than my own salts I try once more in another place.
BILL STRICKLAND

THIS YEARS WIN A BIKE CONTEST pays homage to the erstwhile International Imitation Hemingway Competition. The American author was a passionate cycling fan who frequented the Parisian six-day races with his first wife, Hadley; a passage at the end of The Sun Also Rises takes place at the Tour of the Basque Country. Instead of emulating Hemingway, were inviting you to imitate BICYCLINGs own two-wheeled truth seeker, editor at large Bill Strickland. Scores of you have written to tell us how well his midpack musings on everything from hot corners to frozen nasal effluvia capture the sensations of your own rides. But because we both love Bill and enjoy being able to laugh at him, this will be a parody contest, rewarding the reader who not only best evokes Stricklands prose stylings, but displays comedic chops as well.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO enter or win. A purchase will not improve your chances of winning. Void where prohibited. Contest begins at 12:00 a.m. ET on February 27, 2014, and ends at 11:59 p.m. on April 8, 2014. Must be over 18 and a US resident of 49 US states or DC (excluding residents of AZ) or Canada (excluding residents of Province of Quebec). For the ocial rules, visit BICYCLING. com/winabike14. The winner will be determined based on how eectively the entrant evokes the spirit and style of Bill Stricklands writing in a parodic manner. Rodale Inc., 400 South Tenth St., Emmaus, PA 18098-0099, is the operator of the contest.

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BICYCLING (ISSN 0006-2073) Vol. 55 No. 3 is published 11 times a year (monthly except bimonthly in January/February) by Rodale Inc., 400 S. 10th St., Emmaus, PA 18098. Periodicals postage paid at Emmaus, PA 18049, and at additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to BICYCLING, P.O. Box 26299, Lehigh Valley, PA 18002-6299. In Canada: Postage paid at Gateway, Mississauga, Ontario; Canada Post Publication Mail Agreement Number 40063752. Return any address changes to BICYCLING, 2930 14th Ave., Markham, Ontario L3R 5Z8; GST #R122988611. Copyright by Rodale Inc., 2014. BICYCLING, incorporating Cyclist magazine, is published by Rodale Inc. Subscribers: If the postal authorities alert us that your magazine is undeliverable, we have no further obligation unless we receive a corrected address within 18 months.

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Must-Have Gear for Cyclists
Buy Shimano wheels, get a free set of tires from Bicycling
Fast wheels go even faster with the right tires. Speed up your ride with this special gift from Bicycling and Shimano: Buy a set of qualifying wheels from an authorized Shimano dealer, and receive a free set of Vittoria Diamante Pro tires from Bicycling.

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elite apparel collection from Giordana. These award-winning pieces consistently set the bar for technical advancement, innovation and performance. FR-CARBON garments contour perfectly to the body, forming a second skin that makes every movement natural and comfortable. The fabrics, features and nish details of FRC garments endow them with the t and performance characteristics that other clothing simply cant achieve.

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LIST
# 1upusa.com A acecosportgroup.com amegrips.com ananichoola.co.uk B bellbikehelmets.com bernunlimited.com bike.shimano.com bikes.com bikethomson.com bmc-racing.com breezerbikes.com budnitzbicycles.com C cannondale.com cervelo.com challengetech.it chromeindustries.com ciclista-america.com colnago.com conti-online.com currietech.com D demarchi.com diamondback.com E efficientvelo.com electrabikes.com enve.com ergon-bike.com F factorbikes.com feltbicycles.com fizik.com focus-bikes.com fujibikes.com fyxation.com G giant-bicycles.com giordanausa.com gironewroad.com gtbicycles.com H honeybikes.com I industrynine.net inreachdelorme.com intensecycles.com J jamisbikes.com julianabicycles.com K khsbicycles.com 130

BUYERS G U I D E 1 4 SOURCE

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konaworld.com L lezyne.com lizardskins.com M madalchemy.com marinbikes.com mavic.com N ninerbikes.com O oakley.com ortliebusa.com osmonutrition.com osymetricusa.com P parktool.com pashley.co.uk pedros.com pinarellousa.com pivotcycles.com pocsports.com powertap.com R raceface.com rapha.cc rei.com ritcheylogic.com S salsacycles.com schwalbetires.com scott-sports.com shinola.com sks-germany.com somafab.com specialized.com sram.com stanley-pmi.com stoemper.com surlybikes.com T terrybicycles.com thule.com timbuk2.com trekbikes.com U uprightcyclist.com usa.eddymerckx.com V vivabikes.com volagi.com W wahoofitness.com wd40bike.com wearebutter.com wheelsmfg.com wilier-usa.com Y yeticycles.com

BIKING | HIKING | MULTISPORT

800-GO-ACTIVE
www.backroads.com/outside

KING OF THE MOUNTAINS


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W W W. T H O M S O N B I K E T O U R S . C O M

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ADVENTURES WorldMags.net
CROSS-COUNTRY

A CYCLISTS ULTIMATE GUIDE TO EPIC GETAWAYS AROUND THE WORLD


CROSSROADS CYCLING ADVENTURES
The long distance specialists! Come ride with Tracy Leiner - owner, cyclist and tour director. Tracy travels with every group, every day! Small groups, personal attention, businessclass hotels and meals. Luggage delivered to your hotel room and A/C turned on BEFORE you arrive! Extensive pre-trip support including training plan, telephone consultations and rider/staff email introductions. Ride coast to coast or split the tour into multiple segments. Celebrating 18 years of excellence. Rider references available. 800-971-2453, www.crossroadscycling.com

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CYCLE TOURS All inclusive road cycling and mountain bike adventures in the Canadian Rockies, Vancouver Island and beyond. Ride the world's most beautiful mountain road, the Iceelds Parkway Jasper - Banff! Experience Europe's best rides on our Tour de Mallorca! Small groups, great food, big smiles! Tours for different levels and private trips available! Book your trip now and save! 800-661-BIKE (2453) www.rockymountaincycle.com

37th Annual HORSEY HUNDRED Memorial Day Weekend (May 23-25). Discover cycling paradise in Kentuckys Bluegrass. Country roads through charming towns surrounded by rolling farm land, board and historic stone fences. Bourbon distilleries, vineyards and the worlds finest horses. Event details: www.horseyhundred.com Lodging info: www.georgetownky.com CAMP MONDAMIN Brother / Sister
Camps in mountains of Western NC seek staff available May 26-August 18. Mountain Biking, Paddling, Climbing, Backpacking, Sailing, and more. 800-688-5789, www.mondamin.com or www.greencove.com

AMERICA BY BICYCLE, INC. Come join


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us for our 20th season! We have a cross country tour for every cyclist. Choose a touring pace ride, San Francisco to New Hampshire in 52 days 3,840 mi or Oregon to Maine in 50 days - 3,630 mi. Cant get away for two months try: Maine to Florida in 25 days - 1,690 mi or Astoria, OR to Newport Beach, CA in 23 days - 1,430 mi. Great Mississippi Ride for three weeks or kick up the mileage and ride LA to Savannah in 27 days 2,910 miles. We offer 34 tours from 5 to 52 days. Check out our web site, web store, and register online @ www.abbike.com 888-797-7057

KATIE RIDE Presented by Mayo Clinic, with


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2014 ALABAMA BACKROADS CENTURY SERIES Enjoy Alabamas


scenic & diverse backroads in 10 established century rides. Centurions receive medals. Patches upon completing 4 centuries. Various mileage. April - October. www.alabama-backroads-cycling.com

WOMEN ONLY BIKE TOURS For all


ages and abilities. Fully supported, inn-to-inn, bike path & road tours. Cross Country, National Parks, Hawaii, Vermont, Europe & more. Bicycle workshops, wine tasting, yoga. Call for free catalog. 800-247-1444, www.womantours.com

CYCLE AMERICA Enjoy a Fully


Supported Cycling Vacation this Summer. Explore North Americas treasures on an epic Coast-to-Coast tour from Seattle to Boston. Choose one or ride several Cross-State segments. First-Rate Support, Great Routes and Good Friends! Let Us Help You Plan Your Next Fun and Affordable Adventure. 800-245-3263, www.CycleAmerica.com

WESTERN STATES

VACATION BICYCLING Lets bike in style together. Join us for fun, beautiful and unforgettable 7-day bicycle tours from $1099. Fully supported, hotels, food & SAG in GA: Silver Comet Trail; SC: Charleston; NV: Las Vegas & Red Rock; FL: Florida Keys; MA: Marthas Vineyard; NC: Outer Banks; TX: San Antonio & Austin; & HI: Maui. Come join us! 706-363-0341 or 800-490-2173. www.VacationBicycling.com TRANS-OCEANIA CYCLING TOUR
Island hopping thru Indonesia and across the Australian outback. Cycle 7,000 miles with us from Singapore to Sydney starting this August. 416-364-8255. www.tourdafrique.com

EASTERN STATES

CAROLINA TAILWINDS From South Carolinas coast to New Yorks Finger Lakes, and from easy rails-to-trails, to challenging Skyline Drive climbs. Outstanding cuisine, distinctive inns, full support. 888-251-3206, www.CarolinaTailwinds.com NEW ENGLAND CLASSIC 150 & 550 TOUR DE CURE July 12 & 13, 2014 = 150
miles or July 12-18, 2014 = 550 miles. A fully supported American Diabetes Association event. Indoor accommodations, Beautiful Landscapes. Are you ready for the ride of your life? Email Ryan: rwilliams@diabetes.org or visit www.diabetes.org/newenglandclassic

TIMBERLINE ADVENTURES Cycling & hiking vacations for those who love to bike and hike. Experience an extraordinary adventure with a group whose sole purpose for 32 years has been the U.S. & Canada. Offering 23 new tours and 73 tour dates in 2014 including our new 2108 mile cycling Odyssey and our 100 mile hiking Odyssey in England. www.timbertours.com. www.facebook.com/timberlineadventures. E-mail: timber@earthnet.net, or call 303-368-4418 or 800-417-2453. MOAB WILD WEST MOABA (Most Outstanding Annual Bicycle Adventure) A spectacular 3-day road bike
ride with high adventure options: river raft ride, canyon by night boat ride, mountain bike tour. 801-654-1144, www.moabmoaba.com

SOUTHERN STATES

ITALIAOUTDOORS CUSTOM CYCLING


Create your ultimate biking adventure in Italy. Private and scheduled tours for small groups, personally led by expert guide Vernon McClure and cyclist chef Kathy Bechtel. Routes for all cyclists, gourmet cuisine, undiscovered wines. 978-270-5774. www.italiaoutdoorsfoodandwine.com

CANADA

BICYCLE RIDE ACROSS GEORGIA (BRAG) Spring Tune-Up Ride, April 4-6, 2014,
Madison, GA. Bicycle Ride Across Georgia, June 8-14, 2014. Georgia BikeFest, Oct. 10-12, 2014, Columbus, GA. Great fun for families and groups. Various mileage options. 770-498-5153, Info@brag.org, www.brag.org

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CYCLE TOURS


All-inclusive cycling and mountain biking adventures in the breathtaking Canadian Rockies and beyond. Small groups, big smiles! 800-661-BIKE (2453) www.rockymountaincycle.com

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Tandems Ltd

3TOCKING !MERICAgS FINEST TANDEMS AND RECUMBENTS 4EST RIDES 0ARTS 3PINERGY  2OLF TANDEM WHEELS  MORE &REE CATALOG
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and versatility on your bicycle!

Call 800-867-7764

recrac.com

or visit

Fight Friction!
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s "!#+0!#+).' s 42!6%, s &!-),9 #!-0).' s #,)-").' s 25''%$ #,/4().' &//47%!2  /54%27%!2 s #9#,).' s 7!4%230/243 &OR A &REE #ATALOG #ALL   #!-0-/2 /R 7RITE #!-0-/2 0/ "/8  " -!(7!( .*  
 

The Longest Lasting Lubricant and Penetrant Available


MPT TWELVE Lubricant and Penetrant is formulated with the nest true synthetic base stocks, corrosion inhibitors and friction modiers without the use of solvents that will evaporate, cake or gum. Use MPT TWELVE on cables, derailleurs, levers, pedals, chains and more.
Hours: 8:00AM-5:00PM Eastern Time, Mon-Fri Visit us online at www.mptindustries.com Phone: 973-989-9220 Toll Free: 800-351-0605 MPT Industries, Dover, NJ 07801

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE GEAR

welcome to where pleasure and design intersect. liberator.com

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PHOTOGR APH BY JERED GRUBER

MOR N I NG T R A F F IC A L ONG T H E N E W J E R S E Y B OR DE R OU T S I DE U N ION V I L L E , N E W YOR K , 7 : 0 0 A . M .

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It doesnt just look fast. It is fast. The all-new Propel Advanced features the same AeroSystem Shaping Technology as the pro-level Propel Advanced SL, a bike that proved fastest among top aero road bikes in comprehensive wind-tunnel tests by Velo magazine. For sprints, breakaways and solo rides, this is the new shape of speed. Learn more at giant-bicycles.com/propeladvanced

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