I have been researching the various carbon frameset manufacturers and I am starting to narrow down my list, to a very select few before I go and spend the big $$$'s!. One new frameset that has caught my eye, is Kestrel's new RT700. Has anyone out there in cycling land, laid their hands on or purchased a Kestrel RT700? I would be interested in any feedback you may have on this frameset. It looks pretty sweet and stiff to me! Kestrel has a rich history in carbon design and manufacturing and they were the first manufacturer of an all carbon frame mold with Kestrel 4000, so it's not like they just jumped into this carbon market, yesterday.
Kestrel RT700
LacticAcid
1 - 13 of 13 Posts
Joined
·
10 Posts
I have been researching the various carbon frameset manufacturers and I am starting to narrow down my list, to a very select few before I go and spend the big $$$'s!. One new frameset that has caught my eye, is Kestrel's new RT700. Has anyone out there in cycling land, laid their hands on or purchased a Kestrel RT700? I would be interested in any feedback you may have on this frameset. It looks pretty sweet and stiff to me! Kestrel has a rich history in carbon design and manufacturing and they were the first manufacturer of an all carbon frame mold with Kestrel 4000, so it's not like they just jumped into this carbon market, yesterday.
Joined
·
6 Posts
The RT700 caught my eye also, I like the internal cables. None of the local shops carry them. Since I am close, I will visit the Kestrel factory in Santa Cruz to see it in person.
I did read a comment in some forum somewhere a guy said the RT700 was not as stiff as an Orbea model? when he rode both.
I did read a comment in some forum somewhere a guy said the RT700 was not as stiff as an Orbea model? when he rode both.
I have a Talon and I think it's an incredible ride for the $. The frame absorbs bumps incredibly well, but when you put the power down, the bike is solid. I really believe that Kestrel knows what they're doing with carbon, so check out their different models and see what you like best.
Joined
·
1,932 Posts
To speak to kestrel as a company, I still have a 9 year old 200 sci mono-carbon bike that I take on rainy days. The thing is solid as a rock, and I know that I am "supposed" to be able to tell a difference between it and my racer, but I swear they feel the same!!
________
Kawasaki z1
________
Kawasaki z1
Kestrel...
Mike
I am riding a Talon. Solid bike. I just can't figure what Kestrel was trying to do with the RT700. It is a nice bike but they already have the Talon, Talon SL and the Evoke. Why another road bike? If I were you, I would be looking for a 2005 or 2006 Evoke on close out. The RT700 is nice but I can't see how it is better than the Evoke (or the Talon SL for that matter).LacticAcid said:
Mike
Joined
·
10 Posts
Hello Bob,
Whew! Work has been so busy I am just now checking the posts!
I would be very interested in what you think after visiting the factory. That is a really good opportunity to see what Kestrel is all about. As for the Orbea, I was looking at the Orca as a possibility also.
Whew! Work has been so busy I am just now checking the posts!
I would be very interested in what you think after visiting the factory. That is a really good opportunity to see what Kestrel is all about. As for the Orbea, I was looking at the Orca as a possibility also.
Joined
·
10 Posts
Dr. Doom
The Talon is hot bike. I know the tri-guys like them a lot. That's one of the reasons the RT700 caught my eye since it looks as if it is STIFF.
The Talon is hot bike. I know the tri-guys like them a lot. That's one of the reasons the RT700 caught my eye since it looks as if it is STIFF.
Joined
·
10 Posts
Kestreljr,
I think Kestrel is highly under rated. They have been designing and manufacturing carbon fiber for a VERY long time. I am still weighing out my options, but Kestrel is in the top 3.
I think Kestrel is highly under rated. They have been designing and manufacturing carbon fiber for a VERY long time. I am still weighing out my options, but Kestrel is in the top 3.
Joined
·
10 Posts
Hi Mike,
Yes, the RT700 does come close to being a Talon in some respects. I think Kestrel are trying to capture more of the 'roadie' market now, as the Talon appeals more to the 'tri' market. I do like the Evoke, but the geometry of the RT700 - more specifically the top tube, 57cm is the number for me - appeals to my fit, more so than the Evoke. That all boils down to each individual. Pesonally, I do like the Evoke better from the standpoint that is does have a more traditional road frame look - simple lines and not all the fancy stuff.
Yes, the RT700 does come close to being a Talon in some respects. I think Kestrel are trying to capture more of the 'roadie' market now, as the Talon appeals more to the 'tri' market. I do like the Evoke, but the geometry of the RT700 - more specifically the top tube, 57cm is the number for me - appeals to my fit, more so than the Evoke. That all boils down to each individual. Pesonally, I do like the Evoke better from the standpoint that is does have a more traditional road frame look - simple lines and not all the fancy stuff.
Joined
·
10 Posts
Has anyone seen this frameset or bike in person yet? The word is...this bike is pretty hot. I am waiting to see about a test ride once a demo bike is delivered to my local Kestrel dealer.
Bob, Did you make it to the factory? If so, what's your opinion? These frames are not really made in California anyhow (as far as I know)...I believe they are manufactured in the Asia-Pac under strict guidelines from Kestrel.
Bob, Did you make it to the factory? If so, what's your opinion? These frames are not really made in California anyhow (as far as I know)...I believe they are manufactured in the Asia-Pac under strict guidelines from Kestrel.
Joined
·
10 Posts
Lust?
![Image]()
Joined
·
10 Posts
I really hate to change the subject, but my current road bike manufacturer continues to build REAL real sweet frames, and this new cross rocks! I have not purchased a new bike since I bought my Steelman Stage Race from Brent, back in 1996. It has been a dream ride and Carbon will have to live up the steel's motto..."Steel is Real." Enjoy..and I highly recommend any product from Brent Steelman. He will do you right!
![Image]()
Joined
·
10 Posts
1 - 13 of 13 Posts
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
