Summary: First off it's a 2010 SL the form wouldn't give me year choice. This is my first TI bike. I looked at a lot of carbon before making this choice. It's impossible to get a Carbon,let alone a TI bike of this quality ,full Ultegra etc for 2 grand. The ride is wonderful, the bike disappears from under you and you just sail. The workmanship looks as good as any Litespeed or Moots that I've seen and for less then half the price.
Strengths: Great build. Full Ultegra group. Unbelievable value.
Weaknesses: The Ritchy handle bars are super wide,like pushing a shopping cart.
Similar Products Used: Orbea onix
Would you like to Comment? Join RoadbikeReview for a free account, or Login if you are already a member.
Summary: 2010 Ti Le Champion is my first Titanium bike -- and I like it. It is very responsive, stiff and able to handle my weight and riding style. Very highly recommend the bike and bikes direct dot com. I ordered the bike on a Tuesday evening and received it (as promised) the following Monday. Very limited assembly.
Strengths: Titanium, weight, strength, and components for the money. The wheelset is top notch right out of the box.
Weaknesses: Seat and pedals provided with the bike are well below the other components. All 7900 Dura ace must be accompanied with the pedals.
Similar Products Used: I have had a Klein Quantum Race with Ultegra and 600 group for the last 14 years. It is an awesome bike, but the aluminium is corroding and the bottom bracket (3rd) gave out.
Would you like to Comment? Join RoadbikeReview for a free account, or Login if you are already a member.
Bike Setup: Pretty much stock. New stem and seat. Don't upgrade the seat until you try the one that comes with the bike. I think I'll swap back my seats.
Summary: This is the best value in TI bikes. The quality is fantastic and the Ultegra SL group is flawless. The ride is very nice and the brakes are the strongest I've ever used. The Ritchey WCS wheels are VERY stiff and light. I hope they hold up well. I got a flat on my first ride, but I think it was more of a quality issue with the tube (kenda -- looked iffy). The tubing is triangulated and looks fantastic.
Strengths: Light, stiff, and a SUPER value. I don't think I'll ever need to upgrade this frame for as long as I live. It's that strong
Weaknesses: The sizing on the BD website is not accurate for this bike. I bought a 56c frame and it's a bit too big. I'm 6'0, so 56c should work just fine. I heard of another guy who did a 53c (he's 5'10) and fits well. I had to get a smaller stem to get this to fit. Also, I don't like standard cranks, but that's just my preference.
Similar Products Used: K2 mod 3.0. SP Tarmac. Bridgestone xo-3.