Motobecane Cafe Noir

Price Paid:  $700.00 at bikesdirect.com

Summary:
No nonsense, light and fast hybrid with good components, and excellent frame and fork, and a real pleasure to ride. I wanted an "all-purpose" bike that would be refined enough and snappy enough to keep for the long run. The Cafe Noir fits the bill perfectly. It's one of those rare bikes that makes you want to ride all the time. With a new seat and better pedals, it'll be flawless.

Strengths:
Responsive Reynolds 520 steel frame, carbon fork, excellent rear derailleur, nice wheels and tires, and top-notch brakes. Excellent value for the money.

Weaknesses:
Seat a little bare (for a flat bar hybrid). Pedals average. I like the color (black) but it's not for everyone. Fire truck red would be more fun.

Price Paid:  $700.00 at Bikesdirect.com

Model Year:
2007

Bike Setup:
WH500 wheel set,Tektro brakes,All Shimano
shifters and cables,105 rear derailer,Kalloy headset & adj stem & seatpost,Truvativ triple isoflo crankset.Carbon fiber fork

Summary:
The perfect bike for me. Ordered online from Bikesdirect.com recieved 4 working days later in pristine condition. No hassle for me to assemble. Everything was in good working order, rides smooth,shifts great! No major adjustments
needed.Climbs and cruises with ease. SMOOTH,very responsive steering.I would reccomend it as a commuter or light touring bike it's tough as nails, easily converted to a drop bar setup or comfort bike setup.

Strengths:
Light and FAST! Steel frame with carbon fork=comfortable ride. Traditional Geometry. Not a Mountain bike.

Weaknesses:
Saddle a bit mushy for me,needs a riser bar to truly set upright. Pedals just ok.
Replace them if you need to, I did.

Similar Products Used:
I'm 50 years old, I've rode 'em all!