The DBS offers plenty of bang for the buck, especially when equipped with SRAM Force and Fulcrum wheels.
William Lewis Imports has been importing bicycles, parts and accessories into the United States since 1973, and has supplied such outfits as the Tommasini-mounted Stowe/Shimano team of the early ’80s, which included Chris Carmichael and Louis Garneau. They’ve been selling the in-house Quattro Assi brand since 1988, and the latest model, the DBS (Don’t Be Stupid), was wrought from the idea that “if you ride seriously or race, you will crash,” so why not ride an affordable, durable bicycle?
THE FRAME
While other Quattro Assi models have been, at various times, manufactured in Italy, Colombia and the United States, the DBS is produced exclusively in China and available in steel and aluminum versions. We tested the aluminum DBS frame, comprised of 7046- alloy round tubes that are TIG-welded, with large high-quality uniform beads. Shifter cable guides are mounted on the non-tapered head tube and, although non-slotted, they are threaded for easy adjusting. The rear brake cable guides and a chainstay-mounted rear derailleur cable guide are slotted. There’s no bridge connecting the two chainstays, but the rear dropout features a replaceable derailleur hanger.
Our test model came with Quattro Assi’s “Wave” carbon fiber fork, although for $150 less, the frameset can be ordered with a straight carbon fork. The Wave fork certainly adds a bit of panache, however, especially with the lower half sporting an exposed carbon weave. “Wave” style forks were first pioneered by Pinarello, and Quattro Assi claims that their own design affords the same vibration-damping characteristics as the Italian manufacturer’s, albeit without such “extreme curvature.” This variation is also intended to better balance comfort and rigidity, ensuring a smoother ride while maintaining momentum through corners.
Quattro Assi modeled their "Wave" fork after Pinarello's design, albeit with a slightly more subtle profile.
THE PARTS
The aluminum DBS can be ordered as a frameset for $799, but a complete bike can be ordered and built from a variety of options. Our test model came equipped with a full SRAM Force groupset including brakes, 53x39 chainrings and an 11-25 cassette, which provided plenty of room to stretch seasoned leg muscles. SRAM’s DoubleTap lever system, with its 1:1 ratio, continues to be well-received by many RBA test riders for its quick, precise shifting. A Ritchey Pro Logic II aluminum handlebar and Pro 4-Axis aluminum stem complete the cockpit. Quattro Assi’s own carbon fiber seatpost is topped with a Selle Italia SL Flow saddle. Fulcrum Racing 5 aluminum clinchers offered smooth rolling capabilities, and Michelin Pro3 tires provided plenty of grip, particularly in wet conditions.
Thin aluminum seat stays produce a comfortable ride, and SRAM Force brakes provide plenty of stopping power.
THE RIDE
The DBS was designed to be a durable, affordable race machine. Although exceptionally durable, and certainly affordable, the frame isn’t as stiff as some other aluminum bikes, nor many higher-priced carbon monocoque alternatives sure to be seen on race day. Quattro Assi’s decision to use 7046- alloy tubes was made in order to provide a high-quality and long-lasting aluminum frame capable of enduring substantial abuse. The result is a more civilized cruiser than an aggressive racer. The frame lacks stiffness, and this is particularly noticeable during quick accelerations when the bike feels a bit sluggish. Like a “non-morning person,” the DBS requires some extra time, and a caffeine hit of additional pedal strokes to get up to speed, but once there, it can maintain a speedy pace.
While its lack of rigidity hurts the DBS’ hardcore racing capabilities, its flexibility aids in offering a comfortable ride. The thin seat stays absorb road chatter, and so does the carbon “Wave” fork—its bends create an accordion-like effect, which helps provide additional surface area to neutralize rough road conditions. Climbing is smooth and steady, as opposed to explosive and aggressive—again, a result of a frame that is slow to get up to speed but sufficiently fast once there. And with a relatively light weight of just under 17 pounds, it’s a bike that can be ridden comfortably over long distances, day in and day out.
THE VERDICT
While it doesn’t possess racing-level acceleration, the DBS comes alive as a spirited and competitive machine in the turns. The steering is surprisingly and pleasantly nimble. Throw the DBS into a corner at high speed, and it maintains its momentum through the exits of all but the widest of turns. The lively feel and twitchy steering become a minor hindrance on steep descents, however, with significant speed wobbles occurring around 30 mph. While not quite the dedicated race bike it was designed to be, the comfortable Quattro Assi DBS exemplifies its moniker: It’s a bike with “four aces” in hand. It might be beaten by a royal flush from Fausto, Ernesto and Edoardo, but it’s still a better hand than many others out there.
PUNCH LINES
• Nimble steering
• Comfortable ride
• Classic silhouette with a fancy fork
• Frame built to last
• Limited production equals exclusivity
THE STATS
Price: $799 (frameset)
Weight: 16.9 pounds (medium size,
without pedals)
Sizes: XS - XXL (50-59cm top tube)
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