Alpha Q Alpha Q Titanium Steerer

Price Paid:  $0.00 at Wedgewood Cycle, Sea

Favorite Ride:
Leelenau Peninsula, MI

Bike Setup:
Rodriguez Arrow, Shimano 105, Look pedals, Campy Moskva rims and Vittoria tires, Sella ProLink Gel s

Summary:
I put this fork on my then new sport touring steel bike,a Rodriguez built by R & E of Seattle. I was pretty sure I made a good choice when the guys building my bike were impressed when I brought it into the shop to add to their pile of parts.

Strengths:
This fork carves beautiful turns. I can drop into a downhill hairpin without any concerns and I have full confidence in it at speeds over 40 mph.I have used it now for 4 years and it feels like new.

Weaknesses:
None noticed.

Similar Products Used:
This is my first carbon fork.

Bike Setup:
Hampsten Cinghiale Pro w/Campy Chorus 10spd, Mavic Open Pro wheels w/Record hubs. 3T stem and bars, Chris King headset.

Summary:
This is one sweet fork. It handles incredibly well at both high and low speeds. On fast descents, there's no worry about the fork being up to the task. It seems to be able to handle just about anything you throw at it. It soaks up the rough stuff very nicely and is plenty stiff for sprinting as well. After riding nothing but steel forks for the past eight years, this fork is nothing short of a revelation. This fork is worth every penny.

Strengths:
Very light. Smooth ride, and plenty stiff. Great handling all the way around

Weaknesses:
None so far.

Similar Products Used:
None

Price Paid:  $300.00 at AME direct

Favorite Ride:
Hill country

Bike Setup:
2000 Airborne Zeppelin, Dura Ace, Rolf Vector Pro wheels, Campagnolo ti seat post, Brooks Swift saddle, Chris King, etc.

Summary:
I got a threaded steerer on this fork and I found dealing with Dr. Lee at AME to be an excellent experience. There is no question that he built it to my requirements as opposed to one just off the rack. (AME will paint a fork with one of those changeable iridescent colors if you are inclined.) The fork handles beautifully and the 44mm of rake makes for a great descending bike. It is fair to say though, that the Reynolds Ouzo Pro was a bit smoother ride than the AlphaQ. On the other hand, the AlphaQ feels very precise, so I think they are both equally good.
There are lots of nice forks out there, but when you can buy direct and save on the AlphaQ, it moves to the top of the list in price/value measure, in my opinion. Great fork.

Strengths:
Great handling, looks, and light weight

Weaknesses:
Price, but only if you pay retail

Similar Products Used:
Look, Kestrel EMS, Reynolds Ouzo Pro