Orbea Vento

Price Paid:  $1000.00 at Sun-n-Ski Sports

Model Year:
2004

Favorite Ride:
River Rd.

Bike Setup:
Stock
(added cycling computer and Shimano Dura Ace Pedals)

Summary:
This is my first road bike and I could not be happier with my purchase. The Vuelta (Vento) has a great middle of the road component set for a great price especially for a first bike. I usually put around 100 miles per week on the bike and have had no problems to date. First of all I am short (5’4”) and finding a bike to fit is a chore in itself. I am limited to certain brands and certain models due to the limited selection of 48 cm bikes. I tested several bikes such as Felt, Giant, Trek, and Lemond and found that the Orbea fit first of all but also performed extremely well. The bike climbs, sprints, and cruises very well and I tend to be the weaker of the links in the system. My wife and I are the same size and she has also taken to the bike so I am now looking into an upgrade. I will continue to look at Orbea as the quality of the bike and component sets are so high. I would highly recommend this bike for anyone starting cycling or looking for a higher end entry bike to put miles on and build up to a higher end ride later on. If I were to upgrade this bike I would upgrade the seatpost to the Orbea Zeus post and possibly the wheelset. Other than that the ride is more than satisfying and pretty smooth for an all aluminum frame.

Strengths:
Ride quality vs. price
Component mix vs. price
Quality of construction and finish
Actually fits (size)

Weaknesses:
A little over 20 pounds
Could use a carbon seatpost, seatstay, or rear triangle to smooth out the harsher bumps

Similar Products Used:
Tested:
Trek, Lemond, Felt, Giant