Cross Concept Veloce or Axis
 

OK So my man at my LBS told me he could get me a Bianchi Axis or for $400 more I can get the Cross Concept Veloce. Both are 2005. I have read on this forum that some people are skeptical about the Scandium of the Concept frame. I weigh ~150. Thanks for all your advice.

I did not look at the cross veloce but I did end up with an axis. I do not race but I am very happy with this bike, decent road bike, fast commuter, fun bike to train on. I did a few upgrades and may do a couple more to get it the way I want.

Pike

An extra 400 bucks? Hellz friggin' yeah I'd get that Cross Concept. It's a race-proven bike, just check out the cyclocross section on cyclingnews.com. They got a bunch of the CrossConcepts as raced by pro and amateur 'crossers. Plus you see that bike pop up in race photos all over the place.

i have an axis and love it but for 400 more- dude- get the concept. the axis seems to be getting lesser components every year.

I will add my assent to the others, you should get the concept. I have the axis, I just got it this year, and while it is a great bike, there are a few things I would change about it that the concept likely has. One is a double chainring instead of the triple that the axis comes with, I have never used the granny gear and don't think I ever will. If you are pedalling in the small chain ring, it is almost certainly faster to get off and run. Another is the brake adjustment screws, they are really hard to use, and I would expect the concept has a better set up. Of course, all this commentary assumes you want it for racing cyclocross, if you want it as a commuter then the axis might be better since it has rack and fender mounts on the frame (maybe the concept does too but I would guess not).

I just got a 58cm Axis F/F (team deal at cost +10%) and am building it up with full Campy Veloce, Richey cranks, Cane Creek brakes and a Ksyrium Elite steal from e-bay. So far, I have spent $1150.00 and have an elite level cyclocross racer for $150.00 LESS than the "less than impressive" factory stock set-up. If you stay with the bike shop deal - go Concept, if you can get a F/F, build it up yourself - smart bargain shopping can save big bucks.

I bought a 05 cross veloce for 1299 on ebay. It was a new old stock bike the owner of the bike shop couldnt get rid of. It is also a 61 frame so that may be why I was the only bidder. Ebay all the way man, you just have to be patient.