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FEATURES: RBA REVIEW: NEUVATION F100
Road Bike Action
June 19, 2009
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Cyclists unfortunately, haven't gotten that memo and never will. It's a double-edged sword as our desire for new bikes and products with the hippest image, take us into bike shops or online and therefore keep the bicycle industry train moving forward. That's all true, but in a small shop in a great town on the Central Coast of California is a man named John Neugent who hopes to change the way you look at the world of bicycles and save you money while he's doing it.
Neuvation has made its name by providing high-quality wheels at low prices and only selling direct to consumers through their site. Now, Neuvation is offering a selection of bicycles that fit the same niche. The bikes, like the wheels are well-designed, high-quality machines without the name and distribution network. If you are looking to stay on the road with some new products or a bike this year, but don't have $5000 to spend, Neuvation is a place for you to start.
THE PARTS
Other than the Shimano Ultegra SL group and Michelin tires, the entire aluminum F100 is Neuvation branded. As a customer you choose your frame from Neuvation, then add in all the individual parts you desire. The bike is built within 7 days and shipped to your door for an additional $45. Our F100 featured: FSA Gossamer cranks, C50 carbon wheels and Neuvation post, stem, bars and saddle.
THE VERDICT
Can anyone say Cervélo without the Cervélo name (and cool C and E graphics?) We were surprised at the quality and performance of the F100. After two or three rides, the first thought we had was that local race teams could actually outfit their team with Neuvation bikes, get on the road and racing and save a good deal of money. The F100 handled well, climbed above average, descended with the best of them and cornered with authority. Our bike came with two sets of wheels, the C50 carbon wheels with Tufo tubulars and then a set of their R28 Aero 4 wheels for training. Neuvation runs a deal or two every month, so make sure to ask them about their latest incentives.
FINAL WORD
Every wheel and product we test from Neuvation is well-made and built with quality and integrity. If you can get over not having one of the five big named bikes in the world, you will be happily riding down the road.
PRICE: $1695 with (C50 wheels), $1300 with (R28 Aero 4 wheels)
WEIGHT: 17 pounds
INFO: www.neuvationcycling.com
BONUS POINTS: Sleek design, great value and quality quotient. Unlimited options to give you a unique package.
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