Light weight, good (neutral) handling. Very stable in the descents and climbs very well. Fantastic group (full 2013 SRAM Red).

None, really. The Hutchinson tires were not bad for OEM spec but lasted only about 5 rides before they were worn out. In fairness, our Central Illinois roads are chip/rock sealed nightmares and they chew up most. I use 4000s black chili and have had the best overall luck with them on these roads.

This review is for the Evoke 1.0 from BikesDirect. Size 52 for a 30 inseam (5'6") male. Fit perfect after a slightly longer stem (100mm) was installed. I also hated the factory bar as it was too narrow for me (40cm). I went to a 43 c-c and am much happier. I was looking for a bike with a full top end group (either Dura Ace or Red) and this one could not be beat for price. I figured if it was lame I could sell off the parts and keep the group for another build. For $2500 you simply cannot beat this bike. The frame and fork are excellent, providing a light yet stable foundation. The bars, stem, and post are lower end FSA, but completely acceptable as to weight and function. The Kestrel labeled saddle is far more comfortable than I expected. The Vuelta wheels are a pleasant surprise as I figured them to be a throw away or spare set. They are light, and spin very smooth. I have been surprised at how well they have held up given the low spoke count and light weight vs. our very rough Midwestern roads. TIP: I thought I had a bad axle or bearing on the rear wheel but it turned out it was the screw coming loose on the chainstay to seatstay connection. Pull it, grease the contact point (metal lugs) and reassemble carefully (very small screw that is 3mm and could easily be stripped with severe consequences. I used 4nm torque). Also, the Red crank bolts came loose easily. Grease them and reinstall at 8nm spec. The bolts are awesome as they are 6mm outside and 5mm inside so the bolt doesn't spin. Finally, after about 10 rides you need to pull the crank and grease the bearings. Use the tip of a thumbtack to carefully pry out the blue outer seal and use the grease that comes with the bike. Reinstall the bearing seal carefully and reassemble the dust seals and crank arm. I greased it all with Teflon grease and torqued to spec (48 to 52nm). Overall this is probably the best high end road bike available for the price. Kestrel is also noted to still have a lifetime limited warranty (rare these days for carbon) and a crash replacement program. If you have been eyeing this one, quick looking and buy it. You'll be glad you did.

It's all good. Great value on a nice light bike.

None I have noticed.

The bike is actually a 2009. Very nice bike for the money. Comfortable riding, but great handling. SRAM Rival components are very nice. It came with a 50x36 compact crank w/ 12x25 on the back. I dropped the small chainring down down to a 34 and I'm pleased with the climbing ability. I've just turned over 1000 miles on the bike and I'm very pleased. Killer deal on a nice bike.

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Specialized Allez

Great looks, black carbon is sexy. Stiff but plush ride. Great groupo with the scram rival, love the double tap levers. Shimano probably shifts a little smoother but no complaints on the scram.

Maybe the seat, will have to ride more. If you want me to get real picky, some of the gel coat has areas where it is a little dull looking, but you have to be within inches and have the light just right to see. Most people would never notice it. For the price, I can't complain

The 2009 Kestel Evoke SL arrived undamaged. The bike is much better looking in person than the pics show online. Top and bottom tubes are a modified trapezoid shape, very aero! The evoke weighed 16lbs 4oz which is only 2oz off what the Manfc shows. I rode 32 miles today and could not be happier with the bike. This is my first roadbike in 20 years, I am mainly a Mnt Biker.

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Rode a friends Trek Madone, did not like the dura-ace shifter brake lever combo.