Wow...what a difference
Just back from my first ride on my new Look 555, having upgraded from a mid-1990's Fausto Coppi K28 and boy, what a difference.
Firstly, I didn't realise just how harsh the Coppi was. the Look seems to dampen down an awful lot of the minor imperfections in the road. Also, it just feels generally sharper & more responsive.
Climbing speed seems to have increased significantly - probably a combination of weight & stiffness, I guess.
I've just managed to reduce my PB time for my regular 31 mile loop from 1:42 to 1:31 in a single bound...I don't think I've ever spent so long in the big chainring
Now, there are other factors to consider...I finished London - Paris 2 weeks ago and hadn't ridden since, so in theory I'm as fit & rested as I'm going to get. Also, I'm sure there's a placebo effect - I want the bike to be "better", therefore it will be...but blimey, even better than expected.
Not sure there's any question or point behind this post, just wanted to say to anyone considering an upgrade to carbon GO FOR IT!!
Firstly, I didn't realise just how harsh the Coppi was. the Look seems to dampen down an awful lot of the minor imperfections in the road. Also, it just feels generally sharper & more responsive.
Climbing speed seems to have increased significantly - probably a combination of weight & stiffness, I guess.
I've just managed to reduce my PB time for my regular 31 mile loop from 1:42 to 1:31 in a single bound...I don't think I've ever spent so long in the big chainring
Now, there are other factors to consider...I finished London - Paris 2 weeks ago and hadn't ridden since, so in theory I'm as fit & rested as I'm going to get. Also, I'm sure there's a placebo effect - I want the bike to be "better", therefore it will be...but blimey, even better than expected.
Not sure there's any question or point behind this post, just wanted to say to anyone considering an upgrade to carbon GO FOR IT!!
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Couldn't agree more, Mystique. I've just ordered a Look 586 having been on an Trek 1000 for the past 3 years. I test rode the Look, Orbea Orca and Willier Izoard and was amazed at home smooth and light they all were ... it was a complete revelation!
Only two weeks to go before I can pick the bike up - I bought the bike from Epic Cycles who are abour 2 hours away from where I live (but they offer a truly excellent service), so unfortunately it isn't a quick local trip. What's worse is they've confirmed the bike is built up and ready to go! Arrgghh!
I can't wait, and based on these results, I'm really looking forward to seeing a few PBs on my usual routes!
It\'s not my fault I\'m slow - I\'m underpowered for my weight!
Bikes: 2005 Trek 1000 (Commuter) / 2008 Look 586 (Best) / 2009 Specialized Stumpjumper Comp (Fun!)0 -
Carbon is indeed lovely. I love riding my wet weather steel bike and then getting back onto the TCR and feeling the difference in responsiveness.0
