Aegis 1999 Aro Svelte 2

Bike Setup:
blue w/Cinelli bar, Moto Ace stem, Flite saddle, Thomson post, Rolf Comp, Cont. Grand Prix, Icon pedals (free fr. shop)

Summary:
After my Trek 5000 was stolen by low paid construction workers, I was on a mission to find a replacement and hopefully find my old bike (yes, I knew it was hopeless and probably already in Mexico). Many many months later, I almost bought the Trek 5200 but didn't like the paint schemes. I came across the Aegis at a local shop that offered a custom deal I couldn't refuse (~$2700). Except for the weak paint job, I like my bike and it handles as well as the Treks but looks much better. I just had to get used to the different geometry of the seat tube.

Strengths:
very good value w/several component options

custom paint job

strong bike but not too stiff for good road feel

Weaknesses:
like previous review, I agree the paint job is poor for such a nice bike (mine was delivered w/big chip that did not look much better w/touch up paint which was kind of hard to obtain from Aegis)

no pedals (should at least be included as part of Ultegra group)

Similar Products Used:
Trek 5000

Favorite Ride:
Redwood Road, Grizzley Peak

Bike Setup:
Ultegra triple, Mavic EXP 33 wheels, salsa stem & bars, Italia seat, specialized team turbo tires, carbon seat post, 54cm frame, weighs 20 lbs.

Summary:
A great bike, and the vibration damping is great on a older bod (49) like mine. Comfortable.

Strengths:
strong, light; carbon fork/frame dampens road vibration better than Ti, yet is stiffer. handles well in tight speed turns, fast downhills.

Weaknesses:
paint scratches and chips too easily. got to be careful with it.

Similar Products Used:
Merlin extra light, Cannodale 1000.