Price Paid:
$0.00
at Specialized Pro Deal Bike Setup:
All stock (so far!) Summary:
I got a smoking deal on this bike so right off the bat I was happy. The M4 frame rides very nicely, stiff yet at the same time has good dampening qualities. This came as a surprise because I have always rode steel and figured the frame would rattle out a few fillings. The component spec is very nice (Ultegra, Avid, Hugi)and everything works well together. There are a few issues which I will address in the "weaknesses" area. Strengths:
Lightweight, stiff, yet well dampened frame. Good working Ultegra parts, Thompson seatpost, Ritchey handlebars, Time pedals, and Hugi made hubs. Weaknesses:
The most glaring weakness is the fork. It does not come close to the ride quality of the frame. It is harsh and has no vibration dampening at all. I will probably replace it with a steel fork sometime in the near future. The 50/39 Ultegra gearing in the front is a little odd. I would have prefered a slightly lower small chainring, maybe a 36. Last nitpick is the Hard Ano Open Pro Mavic Rims. I love Mavic rims, but the Hard Ano sidewalls squeel when wet. It doesn't matter how much toe you put into the pads. I had the same problem with a set of X517 Hard Ano rims on my mountain bike as well. Similar Products Used:
This is my first cyclocross bike. It is replacing my true road bike, as I live in the mountains and the roads are really rough around here.
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