Even though KHS has been around for the past 35 years, they’re probably not one of the first brands that come to mind when considering a new road bike. While KHS might lack the flash of some more popular brands, they’ve carved their niche by offering quality bikes at a good value.
THE FRAME
KHS has had good success using the Carbon Fusion/Alloy frame on their topof- the-line Flite models over the past five years. Now that carbon monocoque frames have taken over their high-end bikes, the Flite 750 is the beneficiary of the trickle-down effect and gets the Carbon Fusion/alloy frame technology.
The Flite 750’s carbon tubes are limited to the downtube and chainstays, with the top tube, seat tube and seat stays crafted from aluminum. The benefit of using carbon tubes in the bottom half of the frame is twofold: First, it stiffens the frame laterally, providing a solid platform for power transfer. Second, the vertical compliance is enhanced, providing a smooth, comfortable ride. Like the 750’s frame, the fork is also a blend of materials with carbon legs and an alloy steerer tube.
The Flite 750 shares the same geometry as all the models in KHS’s road line, giving it the stats of an allrounder. Its 72.5 degree head tube and 73.5 degree seat tube give it predictable handling. What distinguishes the 750 from its upper-end brethren is its tall 165mm head tube, which is on average 10 to 15mm longer than similarly sized models from other brands. In addition to the tall head tube, the FSA headset cap adds an additional 20mm to the height of the lowest possible stem height.
The Tektro brake calipers provided plenty of bite on the Mavic CXP rims.
THE PARTS
The Flite 750 has a parts sampling from quite a few different component companies. The drivetrain boasts FSA Gossamer compact 50x34 cranks, with the shifting duties handled by SRAM Rival derailleurs and shifters. Tektro dual-pivot brake calipers are in charge of the stopping department. FSA Wing Compact handlebars are a great choice since their ergonomics work well for most people’s hands. KHS went with their own saddle, which has an eyecatching color scheme, matching the rest of the bike. Mavic’s CXP 22mmdeep rims are solid performers on any type of terrain. Although the 14-gauge, 24-spoke front and 28-spoke rear creates a sturdy, do-anything wheelset, it’s certainly not going to win over the gram counters.
FSA's Gossamer 50/34 compact crank has a big enough gear to cruise up the climbs.
THE RIDE
Getting a frame with a carbon blend in the Flite 750’s price range is a treat. Although the carbon doesn’t create a huge difference in ride quality over a similarly-priced all-aluminum frame, the subtleties are noticeable. Road vibrations are still there, just not quite as sharp, helping smooth out the ride over rougher roads.
One of the terms our test riders used when referring to the Flite 750 was “easy riding.” The FSA compact crank and SRAM 11-26 cassette provided ample gearing for us to get up and over climbs without breaking a sweat if we didn’t want to. Descending on the 750 was predictable, but less than awe-inspiring. The bike’s tall head tube and 20mm headset cap (versus headset spacers that can be removed) limited our ability to get into an aggressive position and kept us from becoming comfortable, laying it hard into corners at speed.
Probably the most impressive aspect of the Flite 750 was its shifting and braking performance. SRAM’s Rival shifters and derailleurs functioned flawlessly, never missing a shift. Between Rival’s great shifting and the solid stopping power of the Tektro dual-pivot brakes, KHS really nailed a solid component package.
The Flite 750's carbon downtube and chainstays provide good stiffness, even during out-of-the-saddle efforts.
THE VERDICT
For under $1800, you can have similar shifting and braking performance that bikes twice the price offer. The Flite 750 is a comfortable bike with a list of solid performing components. Although the length of the head tube limits its ability to be an entry-level race bike, it allows for a comfortable stem height for those who aren’t overly concerned with aerodynamics. The Flite 750 is a good choice for the budget-minded rider looking for a bike that’s capable enough to ride a century, but also comfortable enough for you to enjoy it. The aspiring racer might want to think about the next bike up in the Flite line, the 850. For $2200, you get a carbon frame and the ability to find a more aggressive position.
PUNCH LINES
• Excellent SRAM Rival shifting
• Carbon Fusion/Alloy frame provides a supple ride
• High stem height limits versatility
STATS
Price: $1799
Weight: 18.7 pounds (54cm)
Sizes: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61cm
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