Submitted by
Doug Brusig
a Recreational Rider
from Seattle Wa
Date Reviewed: February 8, 2003
Strengths: FAST and I really mean fast-takes 10 years off you body and split times, looks fast. Bike pump will fit inside of seat tube-really cool.
Weaknesses: Weight- at 24 lbs fully dressed- but hard to find bikes much under 21 lbs at 62cm sizes
Bottom Line:
When I first rode a Softride 4 years ago thought it was the worst bike out there, pogo-ing etc. Then bought a Solo frame cheap and took time to know it and loved it. Was looking for a stiffer ride and bought this R1 and Can't say enough, this bike fits like another skin-have never had a bike feel so good, I am 6'2" 190lbs and very difficult to find the right frame, this one feels as if you are in a constant tail-wind, so aero-dynamic.
Similar Products Used: Klein 62 cm aluminum frame-super bike just pounds the Sh#% out of you
Bike Setup: Campy record 8 speed, Mavic cosmos
Overall Rating:
Value Rating:
Submitted by
rosspeterson
a Road Racer
from Allentown, PA - USA
Date Reviewed: January 23, 2002
Strengths: This bike handles far better than I ever expected. After spending a few days riding and adjusting, I finally got the feel I was looking for.
This bike is incredibly comfortable, there is no "beam bob" when pushing hard, or at any time.
It handles great over smooth pavement, cobble stone, bumpy roads and everything in between.
Being that its comfortable and absorbs almost all shock, one might think that this is a slow, or sloppy bike. Not the case: the frame transfers power very well, cornering and climbing are done confidently and effortlessly.
The aerodynamics are also very good, never had any problems with wind resistance, or cross wind.
Weaknesses: Unlike other reviews I didn't have any problems adjusting the beam or seat height. But it did take a day or two to find the right setup, doesn't that always happen though?
Someone else mentioned manufacturing quality, I found Softrides to be very well built, and easy to maintain.
Bottom Line:
If you have a chance to purchase a higher end Softride, do it! It will make all the difference in the world.
A smooth, comfortable ride, with good power transfer and excellent aerodynamics.
Strengths: Cool looking, susposedly a comfy ride, aero.
Weaknesses: Quality control....
As soon as I got mine, it was apparent that the beam was not even close to being centered properly. It pointed off to one side. Softride tried to convince me that this was OK and that it should kinda center itself from my bodyweight....NOT!
Returned the frame for a refund.
Also, major pain in the ass trying to get the saddle height set right.
Strengths: The bike looks fast just sitting there on my wall rack. Cool black powdercoat finish (stealth black is what softride calls it).
Weaknesses: The instructions for the beam upper pivot bolt are hard to understand. Beam tapers are not that easily adjustable.
Bottom Line:
The bike even looks fast (standing still). It handles like a dream on rough surface roads. Cuts the wind like a hot knife through "butter." The beam is a little stiffer than the classic beam, but still provides adequate damping and comfort. It corners well with the longer wheel base than my Cervelo. The bike even climbs well (in or out of the saddle). The beam really teaches you to spin in 360 degree circles, because if you don't, you pogo. I even run better coming off this bike (my quads are not as tired). Overall the bike is stiff, comfortable and handles like a dream. Huge improvement from the Power V. Still a little heavy.
