Summary: i am 12 and bought the bike after borrowing a racer bike off one of my friends and thourougly enjoyed riding it. i decided i would like a racer and looked for one 'till i found this and fell in love. it was second hand however in very good condition! I love to ride it and have not had a single problem!! i think anyone buying a road bike would fall in love at first sight with it!.!
Bike Setup: Standard components, upgraded the pedals, changed the useless tyres, soon to replace dodgy wheel after 3 months of use!
Summary: I had to buy a bike quickly due to being as my trusty carlton I had ridden for 10 years was written off in an accident. The Vuletta seemed fine so I bought it. I have only had it 3 months and have had a catalogue of problems. Rear tyres wore out in 3 weeks (????) front one 3 weeks later - I only do 100Km per week! , quick relesase rear wheel needs a ridiculous amount of effort to remove it - Loads of squeaks appeared but to cap it all after 3 months the rear wheel is falling to bits - 2 broken spokes in 3 months of use!!! I dont knioow which is worse the build quality or the attitude of the shop were I purchased it who seem to think that as I could ride it away from the shop it was fit for the purpose for which it was sold. Astoundingly awful.
Strengths: errrrrrm the frame hasnt collapsed, errm can't think of any really
Weaknesses: Build quality, customer service, the whole bike basically, and the shop - astoundingly poor customer service. Currently trying to deal with the manufacturer to get it fixed, but I'll be need to buy a new wheel - I need my bike for my commuting!!!!
Similar Products Used: Raleigh Carlton (30 years old how I wish I could have it back), Trek 7200
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Summary: My first road bike, as I am new to this sport. What kicked it off was committing to a 54-mile charity ride - in hindsight a good idea as I am now hooked and feeling fitter than ever!
I bought the Vuelta because it suited my budget not knowing whether I would take to road riding after the event. The bike seemed excellent value for entry level and more importantly to a boy, looked good!
It has served me well so far and I have only made minor modifications to suit me.
I've changed the saddle for something with a little more padding, the supplied saddle was not uncomfortable - I just have a boney bum!
I've also changed the pedals for a Shimano cleated pair and treated myself to some Carnac shoes - the difference it has made to my riding is unbelievable and well worth the extra money. The 'bpg standard' plastic pedal are fine if you want to just potter about, but if you want to get some power and efficiency into your riding, treat yourself.
Next I will change the rear cogs, as the ratio isn't too efficient. At a good pace on the level I am pedalling too fast to average 23mph or so, and downhill I can't keep up at anything over 32mph.
As for the bike in general, it is great and very well built. The whole package is good value; it certainly looks the part and was a good choice for someone of my standard.
The charity event is four weeks away now and I am filled with confidence that the Vuelta will server me well on the day!
When I come to buy my next bike, I will definitely give Claude Butlers the first look.
If you are reading this with a view to purchasing your first bike, you can't go far wrong here.
Strengths: Build, Design
Weaknesses: Gear Ratios
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