Price Paid:  $1400.00 at BoardnBike, Duluth G

Model Year:
2005

Favorite Ride:
Fuji World

Bike Setup:
Standard set up, but considering changing out the SPD pedals to a Look. Also considered changing the front sprocket for better downhill range. Curretnly can hit 45 mph on a downhill with a cadence at just above 100, maybe that's fast enough.

Summary:
I am very happy with the Fuji World after about 1,000 miles commuting to work and a regular weekend ride. Overall a great ride to and from work (20 miles round trip). Handles well with the use of my panniers with weight upwards of 30lbs when I have my laptop and some books to travel with.

Strengths:
Frame for the unsuspecting potholes.
Ability to handle well with loaded down panniers.
comfortable ride
gear range

Weaknesses:
Lower center of gravity than previous bike, so the pedals are closer to the ground. Great for when you are weighted down, but need to watch those sharp corners. Can't be pedaling on a turn or your likely to scrape your pedals.

Similar Products Used:
Had a Motebcane Grand Touring previously that was 32 years old... I hope to have this one just as long

Price Paid:  $2500.00 at Sydney

Favorite Ride:
Raid Pyreneen, France

Bike Setup:
Basically as per specification.

Summary:
I bought the bike back in December last year when I was looking for a touring bike suitable for a 6 week trip loaded (front & rear panniers) through France. I liked the design of the bike as I felt it would be pretty responsive for a tourer, with the Reynolds 853 triangle and the carbon forks. Since I took delivery of the bike I have ridden it for about 7,000kms. About 3,300 of those were touring in France. Other than touring I have used it for Audax rides (up to 200km). In terms of performance it lived up to my expectations, both loaded and unloaded. The bike is great for long climbs such as in the Alps & Pyrenees and is also handles very well on the descents. The standard gearing of 48/38/28 on the front & 11-34 on the back was a perfect range to suit both loaded and unloaded riding. An awesome ride which I would have no hesitation in recommending.

Strengths:
- Responsive
- Good quality components (Ultegra/Deore XT)
- Good value for money (in Australia at least)

Weaknesses:
- The bottom bracket is a little lower than I would have liked it. It's the same as the Trek 520 so it's nothing unusual, but I've struck the ground a few times with the crank/pedals so it's a little annoying. Having said that, it make the bike more stable when loaded.

Similar Products Used:
Previously used a Mongoose Omega (1996) which I retired from touring after it copped a dent in the frame after a fall.