Price Paid:
$1500.00
at DEAN Favorite Ride:
Anywhere off-road, Ride for the Roses Bike Setup:
I built it with a Dura-Ace drivetrain, Campy Eurus wheels, 3T Prima 199 bars, 3T Zepp stem, Transfil Summary:
The CTi is a tight rig. I’m accustomed to riding stiff, harsh Cannondales for the past 10 years or so and this DEAN is so much better I can hardly believe it. The Ti frame in combination with carbon stays, an Ouzo Pro full carbon fork, and 1 1/8” headtube provide a very comfortable but stiff ride. Being a climber, I was a little concerned that the CTi would be “spongy” on hard climbs, whereas the Al and carbon frames are always solid. This is not the case, the CTi is rock solid out of the saddle. Strengths:
This frame is as good, if not better than Litespeed’s Ti/Carbon frame, which I’ve ridden, but maybe not as nice as Colnago’s CT1 or Seven’s Odonata, which I haven’t ridden. At any rate, it’s definitely among the upper crest and A LOT less expensive. The guys at Dean build your frame to order (took about 8 weeks). It’s kind of a lengthy wait, but worth it. There’s something super cool about having a frame built just for you. Weaknesses:
My only beef is that Dean didn’t prep the bike for assembly, like washing all the metal shavings off and such. I spent considerable time cleaning it, especially the BB shell. I also had to carefully chip away some excess metal that protruded into the BB shell where the chainstays were attached, otherwise the BB wouldn’t install. Aside from this, it was fine. I highly recommend this frame for any level of rider. Similar Products Used:
Litespeed Ultimate
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