It’s only proper that the first post on PedalPower should be a review of my new bike, a Cervelo R3.
Before forking over almost $5,000 for a new bike I made absolutely sure I got the absolutely best bike I could – best ride, best comfort, best fit and best ‘feel’. I did loads of research and narrowed the list to the R3, Trek Madone 6.9 SSL, Orbea Orca & Specialized Roubaix Pro. I rode each and every one at least 10 miles and up a few minor hills and it came down to two bikes; the R3 and the Roubaix Pro.
I want to feel like a Pro even though I will never ride like one and I wanted something with a that extra ’something special’. The Roubaix had it in the comfort stakes – I could see myself racking up the century rides, but the R3 just ‘felt’ special. On the short test rides I got the feeling I was riding a thoroughbred that was waiting for me to unleash the reins so it could just fly, especially on hills. And that is what sold the bike for me.
Those first few rides merely served to confirm that I had made the right choice. The R3 does make you feel like you are a Pro and can conquer anything. It ’seems’ faster, even though a 19mph average speed ride on my old bike was still a 19mph average speed ride! It simply flys up hills – making it a real pleasure to take on the steeps that I used to avoid. Their is no discernible flex in the frame when laying down the power (and I weigh almost 200lbs and create a LOT of torque!) and so the transfer of power from my legs to speed is immediate. It’s comfortable, looks fantastic, has all the right bells and whistles and as a bonus, on the recent Death Ride drew more than a few comments. I have now done over 800 miles since picking it up in late May and enjoyed them all. The build quality is fantastic, the components all work (as you would expect of a full Dura-Ace setup) and the bike hums noiselessly even on rough roads. My only minor quibble is with the finish effect on the FSA cranks – it makes them look dirty!
I did splash out on a torque wrench as I am paranoid I will crack the carbon fiber tightening up the stem or water bottle cages and am considering a new rear wheel with a power measuring hub.
So, if you are thinking of a new bike, check out the R3 and if you want to know more about my impressions drop me a comment.
June 18, 2008 at 11:21 pm |
I keep reading about the R3 and everyone says “it just feels right.” I’m trying to resist buying a new bike, but I might cave in one of these days on the R3!