Bike Buyer's

p h o t o gr a p h ja m e s g a r a g h t y
Road
Bikes
Plush
Bikes
Dual
Sus
2011 Bike
Buyer’s
Guide
For more bikes go to www.bicycling.co.za/bbg january 2011 83

84 january 2011
Bike
Buyer’s guide
Buythe Right Bike
Whether you’ve never set foot in a bike shop before or you think
you know more than Lance Armstrong himself, there’s always
something to learn. It can be from a mate, a sales assistant, or
this magazine of course. A new bike is a big investment. See it as
you would when buying a car – the more you know, the better
decision you’ll make. Here are a few tips:
DeciDe on the type
Sounds obvious, because you’ve already made up your mind that you want a mountain bike
or a road bike. But considering there are several mutations of each, you’ll need to get specific
about where you’ll ride it, how often, and how much you’re prepared to spend. Tell this
to your new best friend at the shop (visit a few) and he’ll help you narrow it down.
copy your frienDs
It’s worth noting that if you plan to ride with a group of mates, look for a
similar bike to theirs. This is critical to your progression and enjoyment
– if they rip up the technical trails on long-travel dual-suspension
bikes, you’ll hate yourself for buying a hardtail. Conversely, don’t buy
a big hit, all-mountain bike if you plan on riding dirt roads with the
wife and kids.
Do your homework
Collect as much information from as many sources as possible
and compare, compare, compare. Just as you start to get analysis
paralysis, narrow it down to three choices, then pick the one
you like. Don’t underestimate this factor – there are few better
motivations than a cool bike to get you out of bed on a drizzly day
or after a big night out.
Get fitteD before you choose
‘The best bike is the one that fits you,’ is the most common advice
you’ll hear and it’s worth listening to it. All manufacturers have
different-sized curves and many only have four or five options to
cater for the whole population of bikers. Once you’re sized up, pick
the brands that match you measurements the closest.
splash out
This is an investment in your health and well-being. The more you spend,
the more enjoyment you’ll get out of it. If you’re feeling like it’s all getting
too expensive, consider cutting the fat off your monthly expenses or choosing a
lower-specced car when you buy one. This investment return model is true up to
a point, of course. Once you get to around 40K, bikes don’t get any faster, just cooler.
buy a Girl’s bike
If you’re a woman, there’s never been a better time to buy a bike. Several brands now offer
bikes specced with narrower handlebars, shorter-reach brake levers, shorter stems and a more
suitable saddle. Some even have a completely redesigned frame. It’s worth shopping around
for the best one for you.

New
Industry
Standards
bb30, bb90, bb71, etc
The new standard in bottom brackets has yet to be agreed
upon, but all manufacturers concur: Bigger is better, stiffer
and lighter.
tapereD heaDtubes
Especially noticeable in 29ers, this stiffens up the front
end considerably, making for fast accelerations and more
direct handling.
throuGh axles
Don’t be scared off by this, thinking it’s harder
to remove than the standard quick release –
the additional stiffness is worth the extra eight
seconds it takes.
plush roaD bikes
We will never have enough column space to
extol the virtues of a smooth plush road bike,
but riding one will convince you instantly.
29ers, obviously
‘Whatever the hype, or what anyone says,
everyone will be faster on a 29er.’
– Burry Stander
2x10
Unless you plan on any Alpine crossings,
a double blade at the front is worth serious
consideration, avoiding ratio duplication
and reducing weight.
lower profile tyres
Entry-level bikes are now being specced
with faster-rolling tyres, which is a smart
move considering they’re mostly ridden on
dirt roads and tar.
call for stockists
Bh www.bhbikes.com | bH sa 083 236 9381 | Bianchi www.bianchi.com | J&J cycling 012 807 2812 | Bulls Bikes www.bullsbikes.co.za | bulls sa 082 499 3333 | Cannondale
www.omnico.co.za | omnico 021 691 0110 | Cervelo www.cervelo.com | emotion cycling 011 262 6512 | Commençal www.commencal.com | absolut biking 011 468 3198 |
Cube www.cube-bike.co.za | cube sa 073 156 3609 | Eddy Merckx www.eddymerckx.be | emotion cycling 011 262 6512 | Felt www.felt.co.za | sportspro 043 726 3116 |
giant www.dragons.co.za | Dragons sports 021 461 6252 | gt www.omnico.co.za | omnico 021 691 0110 | KhS www.khsbicycles.com | De wet sports 021 551 5228 | Look
www.lookcycle.com | advanced Velo imports 078 457 4296 | Merida www.merida.com | cytek cycle Distributor 011 852 0509 | Mongoose www.omnico.co.za | omnico 021 691 0110
Morewood www.morewoodbikes.com | rush sports 033 346 2300 | Niner www.ninerbikes.com | cool Heat 011 608 2300 | Nomad www.raleigh.co.za | Probike 041 404 8500 |
pinarello www.pinarello.com | asg sports 0861 222 353 | Santa Cruz www.dragons.co.za | Dragons sports 021 461 6252 | Scott www.scott-sports.com | Probike 041 404 8500
Schwinn www.omnico.co.za | omnico 021 691 0110 | Serfas www.twowheelstrading.co.za | two wheels trading 041 368 5708 | Silverback www.silverbacklab.com | silverback
021 386 7777 | Specialized www.specialized.com | specialized sa 011 627 5080 | Swift www.swiftcarbon.com | mark@swiftcarbon.com | trek www.trek.com | Just Fun cycling
011 405 3300 | Van Nicholas www.vannicholas.com | Van nicholas sa 082 743 0748 | Yeti www.yeticycles.com | morningside cycles 011 807 8495
january 2011 85

MTB
Sports Hardtail
86 january 2011
Bike
Buyer’s guide
For knocking around the backroads, hitting the trails, or even aiming
for a solid result at your local MTB race, an investment in one of these
will be rewarded with big smiles. One from your accountant and one
on your own face as you head off into the mountains.
morewooD yebo
Furthering their expansion into the bike market, Pat’s bike-mad team have persuaded him to
make an affordable but raceable hardtail so that anyone can own a Proudly South African ride.
This is achieved by clever sourcing of components, resulting in a fast, good-looking package
(available February / March 2011).
Key spec: Shimano XT/SLX, RockShox Recon fork, DT X1900 wheels
r9 995 estimated
meriDa mats tfs 300-D
Few manufacturers can match Merida’s race pedigree and Team Multivan Merida’s athletes
are a demanding bunch, as you expect from world-class athletes, so the design team is pushed
hard to deliver the goods. As we always say, this filters down the range, resulting
in this value-packed, rave-worthy bike.
Key spec: Suntour remote lockout fork, Shimano 9-speed, hydraulic discs
r6 895
nomaD by raleiGh 80 29er
We picked this as one of our best bikes under 5K and we really believe it’s going to get value
seekers onto the kind of bike they really should be riding. With larger hoops, fire roads and
trails will fly by quicker and more smoothly. Now you don’t need big money to enjoy the
benefits of the plus-sized wheeler.
Key spec: Disc brakes, 29” wheels
r4 396
silverback alpine femme
Every year Silverback bikes get better. 2011 sees a very accomplished range, with a great bike
at every price point. This includes models that are designed specifically for women, featuring
all the details to accommodate the fairer sex, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride.
Key spec: Lockout fork, 8-speed Shimano, hydraulic discs, women-specific design
r4 395
specializeD myka ht expert
If you’re a hulking great 95kg, an extra few hundred grams makes little difference to your
well-being on a bike. But if you’re a svelte 60kg, it has a great effect on your enjoyment. Let’s
face it, for this price you’re not going to get a superlight bike, but Specialized pride themselves
on making the lightest of the bunch.
Key spec: Shimano SLX, Specialized tyres, women-specific design
r9 995

Bike Buyer’s Guide
Best
Value
schwinn moab comp
Schwinn is to the US what Raleigh is to us. The brand has been around for generations and
every American has had one. The Moab comes from Schwinn’s racier range, but with a clever
parts selection. This mix will be hard to beat for a value race bike (and your mates will find it
hard to beat too).
Key spec: 27-speed, lockout Tora fork
r4 995
trek cobia fisher harDtail
No list is complete without the bike that bears the name of one of the forefathers of the
sport. Not only that, Gary is the inventor of the 29er and over the years he’s been honing the
geometry while others scoffed at the idea. A robust frame and durable parts combine to make
up a surprisingly light bike that’s upgradeable when you’re ready.
Key spec: SRAM drivetrain, lockout fork, 29” wheels
r9 999
Giant talon 3w
So often women-specific bikes consist of merely a pretty paint job and a couple of part
changes. Not the Talon 3W. Their passionate all-woman design team has ensured that the
frame is a complete departure from the men’s. Of course all the suitable parts are present too,
with a broader saddle and lighter springs in the shock.
Key spec: Lockout fork, 27-speed drivetrain, hydraulic discs
r6 900
Gt karakoram 1.0
With the interest this bike has generated so far, it’s likely to be GT’s best-selling model for
years, even more so than their bread-and-butter Avalanche model. It’s the best-looking bike
in its price range (in our opinion) and decent specs match a frame that’ll last for years.
Key spec: RockShox Recon Air with lockout fork, SRAM X5/7 parts mix
r7 995
serfas xc1D
As seen in our Best Bikes Under 5K (Nov 2010), the XC1D deserves another mention. Although
it’s new to the market, Sefas’ parts have always been faultless when it comes to the price/
quality ratio. If you don’t mind riding something a little different, you won’t be disappointed.
With the warranty covered by an established distributor, there’s nothing to fault it.
Key spec: Hydraulic disc brakes, lockout fork, hydroformed frame
r4 500
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88 january 2011
Bike
Buyer’s guide
Competition Hardtail
Considered the purest of mountain bikes, hardtails are
light, hardy and require very little maintenance. Notice
we’ve included (many) 29ers in this category - they’ve
hit the mainstream now.
Gt zaskar carbon 9’r
With its stealth bomber looks, the much-awaited carbon version of the popular
alu 9’r doesn’t disappoint. Even with the virtually invisible decals, the triple triangle
design tells us that it’s the iconic Zaskar, just with bigger wheels. It might not be as
light as some but it’s tough and nimble, and with interchangeable dropouts you can
single-speed it.
Key spec: X0/X9 parts mix, Formula R1X brakes, 15mm through axle
r29 995
specializeD stumpjumper ht comp 29er
While Specialized are masters at the spec sheet, they also spend a great deal of time tuning
their bikes’ geometry. They’ve succeeded in getting top performance out of this ‘value’ race
bike. Whereas some 29ers can be a little unwieldy, short chainstays and a steeper head angle
make for a nippy big-wheeled bike.
Key spec: Avid Elixir R SL brakes, RockShox Reba RLT 29er fork
r19 845
bianchi jab 7400
If you have a Bianchi road bike and are keen to see what this dirty lark called mountain biking
is all about, there’s only one choice of bike. Bianchi’s a company made up of ardent racers, and
the spirit and passion of employees present and past is in this hardcore alu hardtail with pure
racing geometry. You can tell that just by looking at it.
Key spec: Shimano XT/SLX 10s, remote lockout fork, Selle San Marco saddle
r14 000
scott scale 29 rc
As the 29er cousin of the superlight Scale, it adds just 50g to the frame. The weight is
guaranteed to be less than 950g, whatever the size. The race geometry ensure it’s an easy
transition from the top-end 26er version, and to help dampen the rough trails, there’s 4mm of
compliance engineered into the rear triangle of the IMP3/HMX NET carbon frame.
Key spec: PF92 (press-fit) bottom bracket, tapered headtube, SRAM XX
r52 000
bulls black aDDer team 29er
The company is part-owned by three-time Absa Cape Epic champs Karl Platt and Stefan Sahm,
and they have done plenty to prove that reliability rules when it comes to stage racing. The new
29er version is not as light or as racy as the Scott Scale, but with superb handling, they’ve got
the winning combination dialled, already having won the 2010 TransAlp.
Key spec: Press-fit BB, built to order
r20 250 (frame only)

Bike Buyer’s Guide
Best
Design
silverback seGma 29er
This local brand now has their HQ in Germany, and their evolution continues with a race 29er.
The name sounds like a type of pudding we ate at school lunches, but if Silverback’s reputation
is anything to go by, it’ll be a sweet ride, jam-packed with maximum spec for your buck.
Key spec: Shimano XT 10-speed, Schwalbe Racing Ralph tyres
r18 600
cannonDale flash 1 29er
The biggest complaint of 29ers is the flop while turning into tight bends. Much of
this is solved with through axles and tapered headtubes, both of which Cannondale’s
been doing for years (with their Lefty shock). It’s the lightest and stiffest system available,
despite what your intuition tells you. S.A.V.E. rear stays and post do exactly that – flex to
save your butt.
Key spec: Carbon Lefty shock, Hollowgram cranks, Stan’s No Tubes rims
r56 000
van nicholas zion 29er
Many see titanium as the ultimate material for a hardtail with its raw,
scratchproof finish and the nuclear holocaust-proof construction. Van Nicholas is
a second-generation Dutch family business, making beautifully crafted bikes using
only aerospace-grade titanium. Feel the family love in the characterful and muscular
ride experience.
Key spec: Built to order
r14 500 (frame only)
monGoose meteore team
The spec on the Team is almost too good to be true at this price. Full SRAM XX, Stan’s ZTR
Alpine wheels, Truvativ carbon cockpit, Fox RLC – it reads like a fantasy wish list. The frame
can hold its own as one of the lightest available in aluminium. If you’re a smaller rider who
races XC, it’s a clear winner.
Key spec: SRAM XX, Stan’s No Tubes wheels, Fox RLC
r29 995
cube elite hpc sl
It’s not just us who think this frame is cool. It won a Eurobike Design Award this year, with its
Flex Stay technology in the rear stay allowing vibration absorption with virtually no horizontal
movement. It still has a lot to prove in our competitive market that demands the ultimate race
hardtail, but we say it’s more than up for the task.
Key spec: Press-fit BB, XTR 10-speed, Easton EC90 wheels
r50 995
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Bike
Buyer’s guide
morewooD kwela 29er
We loved the 26-inch version of this alu frame that somehow defied the unexceptional
on-paper specs. Pat and company have adjusted the geometry to accommodate bigger hoops,
no doubt preserving that X factor that makes these locally bred bikes unique.
Key spec: Built to order
From r16 895 (depending on spec)
volcan xc29
Known as the SA champ’s winning dual-sus bike, Volcan have already proven the 29er version’s
worth at Karoo to Coast, carrying Kevin Evans to victory. The carbon frame ticks all the boxes
required of a modern bike – tapered headtube to 1.5”, BB30 and internal cabling. It weighs just
over 1 100g, pitching it directly at Cannondale’s Flash Hi-Mod frame.
Key spec: Built to order
r14 995 (frame only)
niner emD
As something of a cult brand, Niner have been touting big wheels since their inception, as
the name suggests (they don’t even make 26ers). Cred-wise, you’ll get approval from the cool
crowd. Tech-wise, Niner arranges custom-drawn aluminium tubes with lively geometry that is
just as good for racing as it is for having fun.
Key spec: Built to order
r5 995 (frame only)
meriDa juliet lite 1200D
José Hermida, newly crowned world XC champion, is a good-humoured fellow – till it comes
to his equipment. He demands only the best. The result is that anyone buying a Merida gets a
world-class performance bike, and that includes women. A sub-1 500g alu frame, sleeker tyres
and other important bits and pieces will delight the female rider.
Key spec: X9 10-speed, BB30, Manitou Minute fork, SRAM F9
r15 000
felt nine elite
We did a double take when we saw the price of this carbon 29er. This is a lot of bike for 20K,
with emphasis on the carbon frame. Dressed in SRAM 10-speed components and the industry
standard RockShox Reba fork, there’s little lacking – and even less excuse for not winning your
age group category.
Key Spec: SRAM X9/X7, RockShox Reba RL 29, Avid Elixir 5 brakes
r19 995

Competition Dualie
Bike Buyer’s Guide
Best
Innovative
it wasn’t long ago that the dual-suspension bike was
considered the old man’s option. Now they’re as racy as
you’ll ever get, offering just the right amount of give to
make a long marathon.
specializeD epic s-works
If you count the number of updates on the 2011 model, you’d think the 2010 version was a
poor effort. Not so – it was a seriously hi-tech piece of kit already. Working closely with our
own Burry Stander, they’ve stiffened it up even more with a carbon upper headset bearing
cup, larger and wider spaced pivot bearings, fatter stays and a 142-12 rear axle system using
oversized end caps.
Key spec: Specialized integrated crank, 142-12 Plus real axle
r74 995
Giant anthem x1 29er
Detractors have remarked that Giant’s Maestro suspension system is ‘old’. We say: For good
reason – it works. Engineers are well versed in adapting this dual rocker arm set-up – it appears
on the 4-inch bikes and their balls-out, DH machines. So there’s no doubt they’ve done a good
job on tuning it for 29-inch wheels.
Key spec: Shimano XT 10-speed, Giant deep-section rims, 15mm through axle
r29 000
cannonDale scalpel 3
The 2010 Scalpel frame was hardly porky, weighing in at well under 2kg. Yet somehow they’ve
shaved off even more. Get the same Peter Denk-designed Hi-Mod frame, just with lower spec,
for 40K with change. Claimed to weigh 10.2kg, it tops the pile when it comes to the price/light/
stiff/sex ratio.
Key spec: Lefty shock, Hi-Mod carbon frame
r37 995
scott spark rc contessa
At around 1 800g for frame and shock (HMF and HMX carbon fibre set-up)
you’d be forgiven for thinking this was a fragile, race-then-discard rig. Absolutely not.
Designed by the Swiss, this machine is, if anything, over-engineered. We’ve seen a woman’s
Spark after three Epics and one Freedom Challenge, and with some soap and water it looks
like new. Get one.
Key spec: 3-phase Twinloc system, Fi’zi:k saddle, DT Swiss wheels
r38 995
specializeD camber comp
New to their 2011 line-up, the Specialized Camber fills the conspicuous gap between
the Epic and the Stumpjumper FSR. With 120mm of travel, it’s one of those do-it-all
bikes, but with a racing bent. Sure, looks aren’t everything, but this bike is hot. Thankfully
is has substance too, touched by the collective hands of one of the best R&D teams
in the business
Key spec: RockShox Recon fork, Shimano SLX derailleurs, RockShox Ario RL rear shock
r17 000
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92 january 2011
Bike
Buyer’s guide
nomaD by raleiGh fs 20
Nomad is Raleigh rebranded, with new vigour and renewed passion for making decent
bikes suited to our harsh terrain. We tested this entry-level dual-suspension bike on an Epic
reconnaissance stage – the hardest of the 2011 route – and it shone like a rough diamond.
Polish it up with a Stan’s wheelset and lighter tyres to make it a competitive stage racer.
Key spec: SRAM X7/9 10-speed, RockShox Recon fork
r12 495
silverback aspire
The Aspire is the second evolution of the popular Mercury’s platform. Featuring MU9 higherdensity
aluminium and a carbon rear triangle, the designers have made the linkage stiffer and
lighter. We’d have to take it apart to show you how. At 11.5kg specced with XT and XTR, it errs
on the side of reliability, but with aggressive angles it’s still a proper race bike.
Key specs: XTR/XT drivetrain, RockShox Reba RLT Ti, FSA finishing kit
r39 315
pina fv5
There’s little to touch the performance and bling of a Pinarello road bike. It’s the classic,
archetypal Euro racer. But mountain bikes?! To some it just seems wrong. But look at the
top-end carbon materials used, the asymmetric concept taken across from the Dogma and
the RockShox suspension. Fritz Pienaar is one of the few to have ridden one and his reports
are glowing.
Key spec: SRAM X0, RockShox fork and rear shock
r55 000 (as shown)
Gt sensor 9’r pro
This is a bike that could easily fall into either category – race or all mountain. Rated as
one of our favourite bikes of 2010, the 26-inch version was raced in stage events and
thrashed on the backside of the mountains with equal enthusiasm. The 29er promises more
of the same, with 20mm less rear travel to allow for the forgiving faster wheels. Love the
colour, can’t wait to ride it.
Key spec: SRAM X9/X7, Fox F29 RLC FIT with 15mm through axle
r22 995
khs xc team
The word value is relative. To many R44k for a bike is a massive outlay, but considering the
competition, this is a really good deal. You get a full carbon frame with a proven linkage
system, top-of-the-line RockShox all round and the best groupset in the business. At this price,
many of the contenders offer spec that’s two notches down. Worth a good look.
Key spec: RockShox SID RLT, American Classic wheels, Shimano XTR 10-speed
r42 899

All Mountain/Trail
Bike Buyer’s Guide
Most
Versatile
someone once called this the leisure category, but
regretted it. These long-travel, do-anything bikes will
widen the grin on your face and the gap in your mind
between sanity and madness.
commençal meta 55 team
In Andorra, where these bikes are designed, there’s little choice of biking routes – mild or
extreme downhill riding. Perfect for R&D. The Meta’s Contact System employs a single-pivot
design with a one-piece swingarm. The shock is driven off a linkage allowing refinement of the
progressiveness of the suspension.
Key spec: Mavic Crossride wheels, 15mm through axle, Formula RX brakes
r26 995
cannonDale jekyll carbon 1
Hammertime! No not the 80s rapper – it’s the term the design team use to describe the
ballistics-grade carbon used to fend against sharp, flying rocks and broken hearts. But
that’s the least of it. Cannondale say it’s two bikes in one – a lever on the bars switches it
from an energetic climber (90mm) to an all mountain/freeride ripper (150mm). It’s an ‘over
mountain’ bike.
Key spec: Fox DYAD RT2 dual rear shock, BB30, Shimano XT
r56 000
yeti 575
In honour of its 25th anniversary, the legendary brand Yeti has pimped its most popular model
– the 575 (5.75” rear travel) – and updated the frame on the new 575 to accommodate a longertravel
fork. The angles have been adjusted and the suspension’s been tweaked to make it stiffer
midstroke. Fresh tech, retro paint.
Key spec: Fox 32 150mm fork, 12x142mm rear through axle compatible
r26 000 (frame and fork)
morewooD sukuma
Continuing their spread across to cover all possible genres, Morewood Bikes has, for the first
time, bought a license to use another proprietary suspension system. This bike features Dave
Weagle’s (Turner Bikes) split pivot system, designed to separate the braking and acceleration
forces on the suspension. Morewood love the Turner design so much they’re importing them.
Look out for it in future issues.
Key spec: Built to order
From r36 000
santa cruz nickel
After telling the mountain bike world that their virtual pivot system is the way to go, Santa
Cruz announce an ‘active pivot’ bike. Granted, this makes for a far more affordable set-up and
they have solved the single pivot eccentricities. There’s more responsive pedalling deep into
the travel, minimised brake force reactions, and an improved shock rate curve where the shock
gets stiffer the further you are into the travel.
Key spec: Built to order
r14 500 (frame only)
january 2011 93

ROAD
94 january 2011
Bike
Buyer’s guide
Weekend Warrior
Bike Buyer’s Guide
Best
for larger
riders
Being able to hang in a bunch way above your ability is hugely
rewarding, and now even more so on a bike that costs a fraction of
many of the bikes you’re riding alongside.
Giant tcr 2 cD20
It’s aluminium, but like we see from the likes of the CAAD10, not all alu is created
equal. Six years ago this frame would’ve been wearing Dura-Ace or Ultegra at the very least.
It’s ready to race, and with a couple of small upgrades down the line you’ll be rewarded with
years of service.
Key spec: Composite hybrid fork, Shimano Tiagra, BB71
r8 500
meriDa racelite 904
At this price point there’s lots to choose from, but make sure the most underrated brand on
the road is on your list. This is a great-handling, full-on race bike, make no mistake, but it does
have a little give – the slightly flattened stays help reduce the buzz. The wheels are bombproof,
so larger riders take note.
Key spec: Tapered head tube, Shimano 105
r12 500
khs flite 300
This bike sneaked into our Best Bikes Under 5K (Nov 2010), even though it’s a couple hundred
more. It’s one of very few that even comes close to that magic price point, which goes a long
way to describe the haggling the buyers do to bring you the best spec for your money, such as
carbon fork blades and seatpost.
Key spec: Shimano Sora, carbon/alu fork
r5 300
felt f85
This model is fast becoming a classic – for some years now it’s been a value bike that looks
three times more expensive than it is. Custom-butted aluminium tubes minimise weight,
the bulged seat tube reduces power-sapping flex, and shorter chainstays help it accelerate
like a frightened cat. Novices love its spec, traditionalists love its lines.
Key spec: Carbon fork blades, Shimano 105 derailleur
r8 795
trek 1.5
As one of the Big 5, Trek is a major player in the industry. With their resources they can spend
focused time on each of their models, making sure that buyers get the most bike for the least
buck. At this price you won’t get a Tour bike, but safe to say it has winning deeply interwoven
into its DNA. This lightweight alu frame has race-tuned geometry.
r9 395

Gtr 3
There may not be a GT-riding team in the
Tour de France, but that doesn’t mean
they can’t make bikes. With the backing of
their mother company Pacific, they’re near
the front of the queue for decent deals on
OEM parts spec deals. The smooth-welded
hydroformed frame is tuned to be light and
stiff. If it’s not a best-seller, it should be.
Key spec: Full carbon fork,
Shimano Tiagra
r7 500
silverback rs2
Another deal from the local guys, um, the
German guys. Having relocated their head
office to Friedrichshafen, Silverback is
now officially a global brand, and the bikes
reflect that. The RS2’s angles tell us it’s a
race bike, and with its spec it can hold its
own on any club event or just a long ride out
to Chapman’s Peak and back.
Key spec: Carbon-bladed fork,
Shimano Tiagra
r8 160
eDDy merckx afx–1
women’s roaD bike
There are few more macho brands than
Eddy Merckx, taking the ‘Cannibal’
ad campaign as a case in point. So it’s
surprising to see a women-specific bike in
their range. This is not just a bolt-on job,
chucking wider, pink parts at a stock frame.
They’ve designed it from scratch with the
dimensions that a woman’s body demands.
Street cred included.
Key spec: Shimano Tiagra
r8 995
specializeD Dolce
The road can be a daunting place for anyone
starting out, and thankfully Specialized’s
women’s design division is actually run by
women. Far better at empathy than men,
they’ve recognised the key points that
frighten newbies. So there are flat bar brake
levers, puncture-resistant tyres, a more
upright position, and a stable ride.
Key spec: Shimano Tiagra, shockabsorbing
Zertz fork inserts
r9 295
january 2011 95

Podium Chaser
96 january 2011
Bike
Buyer’s guide
Bike Buyer’s Guide
Best
trickledown
tech
This year’s league racer is the dream bike of only a few years ago.
We often talk of the trickle-down effect and it is no more evident than
in this category, with many of the bikes featuring frames from the
moulds that once made the top of the range versions.
Giant tcr composite 1 cD20
T600 carbon refers to the number of strands per fibre. Giant’s top of the range has 800. The
lesser the number, the more space there is between the strands for the resin to embed itself in
the manufacturing. More resin means the material is a little heavier, but also makes it much
easier to work with. Result – this bike performs well, for way cheaper.
Key spec: Shimano Ultegra, DTSwiss wheels
r19 995
bh G5
BH hails from the Basque region of Spain where cycling is almost a registered religion.
Supremo sprint combination Arran Brown and Malcolm Lange and the rest of the stars at
Team Medscheme love winning almost as much, dominating the local road scene. This is the
Cycle Tour winning bike. It rises above this category, renaming it ‘podium achiever’.
Key spec: Shimano Dura-Ace group and wheels
r78 999
meriDa reactor 907
As one of the biggest manufacturers in the world, Merida is at the edge of carbon technology
and is one of the first to get first dibs on the OEM spec deals. This new frameset adds to their
Scultura range, featuring their Double Chamber Technology, which is a vertical reinforcing rib
dividing the inner downtube. Stiff + light = fast.
Key spec: FSA BB30 cranks, Shimano Ultegra, DT Swiss R1700 wheels
r29 995
specializeD tarmac comp
The Tarmac is the true manifestation of this trickle-down effect. The frame is an SL2, on
which Paulo Bettini won the road World Champs three years ago! We’ll remind you that this
bike costs a third of Bettini’s, and with a wheel change it would be as good as any bike in the
front pack. BG details top it off as one of the most exciting road bikes of 2011.
Key spec: SL2 frame and tapered fork, SRAM Rival, Body Geometry parts
r25 795
trek maDone 4.7 wsD
Trek were one of the first to initiate the women-specific design movement, and their
experience shows. The Madone is certainly race-proven, as you’ll know if you’ve been watching
SuperSport in July for the last 10 years. Although we don’t have official word to confirm, this
model could feature the same tech as the US Postal Team’s in previous years.
Key spec: Shimano Ultegra, Bontrager Race wheels
r24 995

silverback space 3
Swoopy stays almost put this bike in the plush category,
if it weren’t for the shorter headtube and aggressive
angles. We tested the Space 2, which features the
identical frame, in the November 2010 issue of Bicycling.
To say this one is a down-spec version is hardly fair.
You’ll have to really concentrate to tell the difference
between this and its top of the line big brother.
Key spec: Shimano Ultegra,
Shimano RS-80 carbon/alu wheels
r22 350
felt ar4
Hugely popular with triathletes, with its convertible
seatpost this aero model can do time trialling and
bunch riding. Hardly a Jack of all trades, master of
none, the design concept has Olympic gold to back it up.
New industry standards like flared headtube and BB30
bottom brackets are ticked off, and with extensive wind
tunnel testing it’s the perfect bike for lone breakaways.
Key spec: Shimano Ultegra,
Mavic Cosmic Elite wheels
r31 995
cannonDale caaD10
Carbon is everywhere today. In frames, cranks,
derailleurs, bottle cages, shoes and even multi-tools.
But one of this top innovator’s hottest new bikes for
2011 isn’t carbon, it’s aluminium. Cannondale have
been building oversized alu-tubed bikes for decades,
and their extensive experience means we get a top
racer for real-world money. The connoisseur’s choice.
Key spec: FSA BB30 cranks, Shimano Ultegra
r19 995
cervelo s2
Yet another example of the trickle-down effect,
this model is the same bike we perved over when
Team CSC rode them to great effect in the Tour.
Hugely stiff, the power transfer caused waves of
jealousy through the peloton and for anyone on a
lone break, usually Jens Voigt, the aero shape helped
reduce the effort and increase speed.
Key spec: Built to order
From under r40 000
swift rs830sl
Swift is a new South African bike brand that may still
have a lot to prove, but so far so good. The frame we
rode feels lively yet compliant – all the characteristics
you’d expect from a carbon frame. Geometry features
mostly standard racing angles and the spec brings the
weight down to where the UCI officials begin to raise
an eyebrow. Oh, and check out that price.
Key spec: SRAM Red,
Swift deep-section carbon wheels
r34 000
january 2011 97

Plush
98 january 2011
Bike
Buyer’s guide
studiously avoiding the words ‘comfortable’ and ‘relaxed’, let’s use
‘smooth’ and ‘stable’ in stead or you’ll be running scared thinking you’ll
go slower. Well that’s a load of junk. We’ve ridden a few of them now and
really, the only thing slow about them are the sales.
specializeD roubaix s-works sl3
80% of road bike buyers should be riding this or at least a bike like it. The Roubaix model is
nothing new, but 2011 sees updated Zertz inserts for vibration reduction, fattening of the
headtube and lighter carbon construction –faster riding for longer. It’s not as if the 2010 bikes
were slow – look at the results sheet of Paris Roubaix and Tour of Flanders.
Key spec: Built to order
r25 000 (frame and fork)
bianchi c2c infinito chorus
It is not just hype to sell more bikes, it’s true – Hunter did ride a ‘relaxed’ bike in the Giro
d’Italia and he certainly wasn’t slow. Fit is vital, and if you have long legs, the longer headtube
will allow a better position for the bars without having to use inches of headset spacers. Then
there’s the fatigue-busting compliance built in, so you’ll feel sharper for the final sprint.
Key spec:Campagado Chorus, ITM Pathom wheels
r47 995
scott cr1 team
In many ways we preferred the cheaper CR1 to the Addict. Comparatively it’s as smooth as
butter with Scott’s Shock Damping System, found also on the Scale. A balance of vertical
compliance and lateral stiffness in both the rear triangle and the fork minimises highfrequency
road vibration without any obvious performance loss.
Key spec: Shimano 105, Ritchey bars and stem
r19 995
cannonDale synapse alloy 5
The Synapse won the Bicycling USA 2010 ‘Best Plush Bike’ award – and for good reason.
We’ve talked about the S.A.V.E. stays that are flattened to flex a little, offering a kind of microsuspension
system. Well this is the alu version, still offering the same design characteristics of
the carbon one, just at a far lower price.
Key spec: Shimano 105, integrated BB
r14 000
pinarello kobh
Because of the Dogma’s pure-bred race characteristics, engineers had to come up with another
plan for the classics of northern France. They used the same asymmetric design and gorgeous
Torayca 60HM1K carbon, but made some slacker geometry changes. It worked for Geraint
Thomas, who claimed second on that famous stage 3 of the Tour in 2010.
Key spec: Shimano DuraAce group and wheels
r110 000

Dream
This is how you justify a purchase that could
have been a decent german hatchback:
Where science and engineering meets art and
witchcraft. did that work? good.
cannonDale super-six hi-moD team
Leaders in innovation, Cannondale are always pushing
the limits of physics and inventing new, out of the box
design ideas (oversized alu tubing, Lefty shock, BB30).
So when you buy a bike like the top of the line Ultimate,
with carbon guru Peter Denk on board, you know you’re
getting bleeding edge technology.
Key spec: Hollowgram cranks,
Campagnolo Super Record
r83 000
cervelo project california
The 100m record is reduced in small increments over
years. It’s the same with bike frames, as manufacturers
shave off grams here and there. Then along comes
this. At 700g (we’ve heard that some are 650g) it is the
lightest production frame available, hand-built in the
USA, with little compromise in strength and reliability
(there’s no rider weight limit!)
Key spec: Built to order
$10 000 (frame, fork and cranks)
look 695
This gets our vote as the best-looking bike of 2011. The
paint job takes cues from their logo designs from the
80s, the Mondrian-inspired red, yellow and blue. But
beauty is not skin-deep here, Look uses the highestgrade
carbon and integrates customisable cranks, stem
and fork. Available in two stiffness options – the 695SL
for a compliant ride and the 695SR (super-rigid).
Key spec: SRAM Red
r49 995 Built to order (iPack includes frame, Zed
2 cranks, C-stem, ergopost, Keo Blade pedals)
bianchi hoc oltre super recorD
As many know, Bianchi is the oldest racing bike brand
still around, and this long-burning passion is fuelled by
the fanatically loyal staff’s enthusiasm for competition.
This new model is yet another step up, with a tapered
headtube, ultra-thin seatstays, internal cable routing
and a BB30 system. Today these are standard features,
but they’re done in the legendary ‘Bianchi way’.
Key spec: Campagnolo Super Record
r100 000
january 2011 99

100 january 2011
Bike
Buyer’s guide
pinarello DoGma
New colour schemes make one of the most desirable bikes in the world even more enviable.
Inside it’s the same Torayca 60HM1K carbon, able to withstand 60 tons per square cm. Nanoalloy
technology is the use of tiny particles of alloy embedded into the carbon itself. Stronger
carbon means Pinarello can use less material, keeping the frame as light as possible.
Key spec: Campagnolo Super Record
r135 000
trek maDone project 1
Have you decided against buying a Trek in favour of one of those boutique brands with their
cachet of exclusivity? After all, everyone’s got a Trek, haven’t they? No. Firstly let’s not forget
the Madone’s racing heritage. Secondly, go onto Trek’s Project One website and choose from
thousands of different paint finishes, colours and specs to make your own dream bike.
Key spec: Built to order
r95 000
eDDy merckx emx-7
Eddy’s built a new flagship (not Mr Merckx himself, but his bike brand). The EMX-7 is so new
and exclusive that Sylvain Chavanel didn’t even get to ride one at the Tour de France, even
while in yellow. Built from 62 HM carbon (the same as Pinarello’s), it has a 1K weave finish and
an integrated seatmast. Place your order now.
Key spec: Campagnolo Super Record, Lightweight wheels
r198 000
Giant tcr aDvanceD sl 1
If you’re a fan of Oscar Freire, Denis Menchov or Robert Gesink, you can own the exact bike
they ride. Giant is one of only two manufacturers making their own raw carbon filament, so
rest assured that you get the best ingredients in the business. Giant offer a range of sizes in
small increments, so you can get a near custom fit. Di2 tops it all off.
Key spec: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 group and carbon wheels
r89 500
specializeD tarmac sl3
After receiving the bad news about Contador’s positive dope test, at least Specialized has a backup
winner in Andy Schleck. ProTour riders are obsessed with stiffness, equating it with a more
confident and positive ride and efficient power transmission. The 2010 Tarmac was already very
stiff, and now there’s a new fork with a bigger cross-section with wider and stiffer blades.
Key spec: Specialized integrated cranks, Shimano Dura-Ace
r72 000
van nicholas astraeus
There has to be a Ti bike in the Dream category. There’s something so damn exotic about this
material. They’re really hard to make, requiring a long apprenticeship and a balance of art and
skill rather than a training refresher course and a lay-up diagram at the wall of a cubicle in
Taichung. It’s more flexible, heavier and less compliant than carbon, but who cares.
Key spec: Built to order
r26 950 (frame only)