Enigma Etape - How good are they ?

Van Nick

I'm considering purchasing an Enigma Etape, and wondered if anyone with experience of this model could be answer the following:-

1). How does the handling and acceleration compare to a "full on" road bike ?

2). How does the weight compare to a "full on" road bike ?

3). Is the riding position a lot more "sit up and beg" (less sporty) than an equivalent road bike ?

4). Would there be plenty of clearance for 28c tyres with mudguards removed ?

5). How good are they for touring ?

6). How impressed are you with the bike.

It's obviously a lot of money to spend and I want to make the right decision.

Thanks in advance.

Pork Sword

Try reading this Bikeradar article:-

http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/category/ ... e-08-31660

Van Nick

Hi PS,

Yes, I've seen that article thanks very much. Just really looking for some comments from anyone who has bought one of these bikes or has first hand experience.

On the face of it, it looks like a very versatile bike, but just wondered if there were any down sides.

Thanks again.

mrushton

What do you mean by 'full-on' race bike. Any bike can be altered in some way as long as it fits you in the first place.

Van Nick

mrushton wrote:

What do you mean by 'full-on' race bike. Any bike can be altered in some way as long as it fits you in the first place.

Hi mrushton and thanks for your reply,

As I understand things, the Enigma Eclipse, Echo and Esprit are bikes with "aggressive" road bike geometry, but the Enigma has a more relaxed, upright riding position.

I just wanted to know how different is the riding position of the Etape, compared to a road bike with a more "racey" riding position ?

Mattinthezie

Hi Van Nick,

You've probably already been on the Enigma forum, but just in case you haven't I'd say it's worth checking out as I'm sure you'll find out most of the answers to your questions there. The 2 guys who run Enigma also seem to participate in the forum discussions pretty regularly.

http://pub28.bravenet.com/forum/static/ ... 10&msgid=0

Van Nick

Mattinthezie wrote:

Hi Van Nick,

You've probably already been on the Enigma forum, but just in case you haven't I'd say it's worth checking out as I'm sure you'll find out most of the answers to your questions there. The 2 guys who run Enigma also seem to participate in the forum discussions pretty regularly.

http://pub28.bravenet.com/forum/static/ ... 10&msgid=0

Thanks Matt, I'll have a look into that.

Slow Downcp

I bought an Etape in October, also have a Kuota Kharma, so in comparison to try to answer your question:

1.It does feel a little slower out of the blocks, but once going it's not a problem. The handling is steadier, depends what you want it for. I use mine as a winter/wet bike so fits the bill for me. The Kuota is more lively, but the Enigma is better suited to "comfort" riding.
2. Both bikes built up to similar spec - I can't tell a great deal of difference, even with full guards on the Enigma. The Enigma website quotes 1.42kg for the 56cm frame so it is a little heavier than carbon race frames, but a pound or so isn't really that much.
3. I wouldn;t say it's a lot more sit up and beg - it is more upright, but not massively. Again, depends what type of riding you;re going to be doing, but it is very comfortable over longer distances compared to the Kuota.
4. Don;t know about 28's - I think 25's are the maximum that Enigma recommend. I run 23's with full mudgaurds, and there is a little more room.
5. I'd say very good - rack mounts, full guards, sensible weight, very comfortable. I used to use a 531c road bike which had guard clearance which I toured Scottish Highlands etc with previously, and found that very good - the Enigma takes it one stage higher.
6. Very - finish is superb, rides a dream, looks fantastic (even with full guards).

All in built with Centaur, Kysrium Elites, and Enigma finishing kit I self built for £2k - although prices have risen since. I don't regret spending the cash.

Ring Jim Walker or Mark Reilly at Enigma if you still have any doubts - they will answer any questions thrown at them. When I was looking to buy, they were getting ready for Earls Court so snowed under, but still took time to personally answer e-mails and return phone calls. Mark will size the bike up based on your measurements (or you can go there for fitting). Jim may also be able to offer a deal if you ask.