HJR

... With the great weather we had in Southern California this weekend I was able to get out and ride the most I had in months over a short couple of days. I was able to get out four times Friday, Saturday and Sunday for some good mileage. I did not ride any centuries, but the shortest ride was 21 miles with a lot of climbing and the longest was 40. I was also able to take out the SP (twice), the Soloist and the Alloro. With that I was able to come to some personal conclusions about my bicycles. I had some people ask me to compare the new SP with the Soloist and Alloro on my previous post showing the pictures of them and I finally feel confident enough to answer them. Here is what I concluded:

1. Comparing the two steelies, the SP and Alloro, they were very similar, the differences being rather subtle, but there were differences. The Alloro turns in a little quicker, but the SP is more stable in mid-turn. The BB on the SP is a bit stiffer, but the Alloro rides a little nicer. All in all, I would consider the SP the sportier bike. Both climb very well and ride even better, but the SP is a little lighter and that's noticable on climbs and when accelerating.

2. Wheelsets make a huge difference. I know that is a NO DUH! observation, but this weekend is the first time I had ever had it so obviously demonstrated to me. The Shimano R540's and the Korso's are nice wheels and are pretty fast for lower-end wheels, but they are not in the same league as the Shimano R550's. Great wheels in comparison. They are fast and stiff by comparison. Hardly any flex and climb really well.

3. The biggest revelation had to do with the Soloist. I had not ridden it for a good month or so, with the arrival of the SP and just being busy of late. But I jumped on it yesterday afternoon and all I can say is WOW! I totally remember why I had to have it in the first place. First of all, there is nothing like a light rigid bike. It just wants to fly. I understand people's feelings that a good steel bike is good enough for most cyclists, but there is nothing like a well-engineered performance bike. For example, the Alloro and SP are not noodles, but the Soloist just transfered energy to the rear wheel effortlessly. Like I've mentioned before, it almost wants to jump out from under you. That stiff frame just transfers power better than the others. I'm no pro rider, but it is still nice to feel that level of control and quickness. I did a climb that is near my home that is not Alpe du Hez, but it runs at 6-8% for about 1.5 to 2 miles. I had done it on the Alloro on Friday the SP on Saturday and then with the Soloist yesterday. The SP and Alloro left me pretty winded at the top. I was pretty drained on the Soloist also, but I had enough to coast back down about a half mile and hit the steepest part again. No big deal until you realize that I am running a 23 on the back of the Soloist and 25's on both the SP and Alloro. Knowing that, I figured I would really struggle with the Soloist on Sunday night, but that was not the case. I felt better, despite being in a 39-23 gear and with the R540's.

Anyways, sorry for the essay, just wanted to share and maybe generate an interesting discussion. Any thoughts?

Thanks,
HJR

simplyred

You're really lucky to be able to try all these combos..
The wheelset bit has made me look at the R550's...
Have you tried Ksyriums? Equippe? Elite? SC? If so, how are they in comparison to yours?
I really appreciate the insight for the frames... The Soloist was my 2nd choice for a bike...
I have no regrets... but I might have the wallet... LOL

Thanks
-Peter

Trogon

Boy, I really wish I could tell the difference between bikes.

Or wait, maybe I'm glad I can't.......

HJR

Simplyred,

I have not tried any Mavics for anything more than a quick test ride. I think the R550's are a good deal also. I got mine for sale about 6 months ago for $200. THe only wheelset that might compare at that price is the FSA RD 200 if they are on sale.

HJR