The carbon fork and integrated headset are very tasty.

Saddle ahs a seam which just doesn't work for me.

I am recently back on the bike after a five year tour in Alaska during which riding just wasn't very practical at all. I used to race MTB and tour on the road (RAGBRAI, century's and the like) so I was very excited to get back on the bike again. The bike has been a joy thus far. I was not going to get the bike if all I could find was the 2006 model, but a new 2005 made itself available. The 2005 is full ultegra and for me the blue color scheme is far preferable to the 2006 orange. I am riding with a crit rider, and have ahd no problem sticking his wheel when I am allowed to do so. The bike is stable, and OH so comfy when compared to the Redline cyclocross bike I have been riding for the past year.

Similar Products Used:

Redline Cyclocross 2002 model
1990ish Cannondale Crit Frame
1985 Ross Signature Series

full Ultegra, with Truvativ compact crank

none

this bike, for the money, is the best out there

Similar Products Used:

specialized

Handling, light, responsive, great on the hills, and on the flats. I have not spunk out yet with the Ultegra double.

A little noisy (rattling) on rough roads, but otherwise a good ride.

Have had the bike out for a couple of good group rides, and a couple of solo rides. Overall, I really, really like this bike. It's light, responsive and can keep up with the pack on the club rides. It has taken me a while to get used to the carbon "feel" but I am now sold.

Similar Products Used:

Novara Strada road bike, aluminum frame with carbon fiber front fork.

Unbeatable value for the dollar. It weighed 19 lbs. without cages and pedals. Full Ultegra, no mixed in house parts.

Snobs scoff at the made in Taiwan frame as they sit on their more expensive, heavier bike that they paid too much for.

I have ridden this bike 1100 miles and it has operated flawlessly. I live and ride near the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia where there are no flat roads. It climbs great! The Ritchey wheels are very light and strong and the full Ultegra drive train is super smooth. With it's carbon fork and seat stays it dampens vibration well and the factory seat is a high quality perfomance seat by a major manufacturer, not a knock off intended to be discarded.

Similar Products Used:

Trek 2500. Similar construction. Bontrager parts mixed in. Frame made in America. The ride felt the same. After negotiating the cost was $400.00 more.