I finally completed the build on my first carbon fiber frame, a Dedacciai Gladiatore 2. I purchased it (and the groupset) from BikeSuperior in Nijverdal, Netherlands, and highly recommend the shop.

Aside from my geometry preferences, I was keen to get something uncommon, but couldn't throw down the big bucks for an Italian custom like Sartori, but with Dedacciai's legendary tubing design fame behind this Taiwan (I think) manufactured frame, the Gladiatore 2 ticked all the boxes: unique design, more neo-classic styling than carbon-y swoopy, and BSA BB. Plus, I'm often in the vicinity of the Dedacciai factory and HQ in Campagnola Cremasca, so it gives me a good reason to drop in sometime!

With the Campagnolo Chorus group and cables, Deda 35 carbon bar (a wide 46cm), Deda Squalo bar tape, Deda 35 alu stem, Deda Superzero carbon post (uncut), Trickstuff seat binder, Fizik Aliante R3 Kium saddle, American Classic Argent wheels (RIP, AC!) shod with 25mm IRC Formula Pro RBCC tubeless tires and secured with Tune AC130 skewers, the Ultegra 11-30 cassette, a pair of Elite Vico carbon cages, 29mm of aluminum headset spacers and another 5mm on top with an Absolute Black top cap into a Deda expander plug, F3 Cycling FormMount computer mount, and Favero Assioma power meter pedals, the size XL Gladiatore as equipped came in at 7.34kg/16.19lbs. 7.03kg/15.5lbs without the PM/pedals.

I've only taken it on a brief test ride, with a proper ride to come soon, so no feedback on handling/performance yet. Hopefully I'll get out on Friday, but I'm happy with the results so far!

Here are a couple of pics: