Ridley Helium SLA ($1,900)
The Helium SLA delivers a high-end, Belgian-quality ride we recommend for an entry-level racer. Instead of carbon, this bike is built with 6000 series aluminum tubing with double-pass welding that allows the use of thinner tubes. We expected it to be terribly stiff and uncomfortable but if your eyes were closed, we don’t think anybody could tell it’s not carbon.
Ridley bikes are known for their superb ride quality, which, until now, was not available under $2,000. But now the Belgian ride has fallen to $1,900, with full Shimano Ultegra components. The Helium SLA is under 18 lbs. with pedals. Grab a set of race wheels and this bike will keep up with almost anything.
We also loved the cable routes, which enter one side of the frame and run diagonally across to the other side (to eliminate rattling).
If you don’t need Ultegra you can get Shimano 105 for under $1,500. The bike comes in a huge size range, from XXS to XL, accommodating riders from about 4’10” to 6’5″.
CAAD Optimo ($1,462)
We recommend the Optimo as a general use road bike, perhaps with some commuting duty. Cannondale is the leader in bringing back the aluminum frame in this age of carbon fiber. The CAAD Optimo is the trickle down from its CAAD 12 aluminum, which was met with raging applause.
Formerly the CAAD 8, this is a more versatile bike that gets a few commuter-oriented additions, like fender mounts. With full Shimano 105, it retails for just $1,462; with Shimano CLARIS, the entry-level drive train, just $700.
We have not ridden it yet, but if it’s half the bike the CAAD 12 is, it’s going to be a huge value.
‘Endurance’ Bike – Diamondback Airen/Century ($2,000)
The Airen and Century are gender-specific road models we recommend as endurance bikes.
The Diamondback Podium road bike that hugely impressed the cycling world bequeathed some of its high-end technology to these bikes.
They have a new rear triangle with sculpted seat and chain stays, delivering a smooth ride. An oversize bottom bracket provides modern power transfer, and front and rear 12mm through-axles help with tracking and steering.
The Century 4 Carbon and Airen 4 Carbon come with Shimano 105 components and ride extremely well. We were told they will retail for a bit over $2,000 but we included them hoping lucky readers can get a bike this good on sale.
Page 3 (Gravel/Adventure Bikes under $2,000)…
