Originally Posted by
Big Pond
@TT how does the rush compare to your Wabi over long rides?
The bottle mount is less than ideal but there are plenty of solutions available for less than $30. I’d imagine if Soma heard enough feedback they would make a change. Probably a nonissue for most people that buy the frame.
I rode a chrome 2014 Rush for two years, specifically for long distance (50 - 100km) riding. After many attempts to make the bike more comfortable (stem length/height, bar swap, increased tire size), I decided to order a Wabi Special last year and swapped the parts. The Rush frameset is now sold. The Wabi frameset is god, and I can comfortably do 100km rides on it.
Ultimately, I learned a lesson in track geometry vs. road geometry. The Rush's 75 degree ST/HT angles are steep, and are really meant for short and fast rides (ie. velodrome). The chainstays are also quite short, which gives you snappier handling. A good trait for some riding types, but personally I prefer the stability of another cm in the chainstay when riding long distances.
The difference in handling was apparent on the first ride. I found long descents to be much more comfortable on the Wabi than the Rush, I could control my speed with my legs much easier. Again, descending with a 73 degree ST angle on the Wabi vs. the Rush's 75 degree ST is more enjoyable.
Aside from geometry, the Rush and the Wabi are equal in quality. Great steel.
And ya, trying to reach a bottle on the seattube while riding fixed blows. Wasn't a fan of that.