Modern racing bikes are often considered heavy, but the Ikarus Faster proves the opposite. The size M model weighs just 6.25 kilograms and is equipped with the aerodynamic DT Swiss ARC 1100 wheels. Developed for maximum speed, the question is: How does it perform in the TOUR test?
The bike is built around the SRAM Red component group (2x12). Concessions to the targeted low weight: the sporty gear ratio (chainring combination 48/35, sprocket set 10-28), 140 brake discs and a 60 gram lighter full carbon saddle. Apart from that, no tuning tricks are necessary. The aerodynamic handlebar stem unit, like the seat post, comes from Ikarus. For the best possible aero performance, the Conti Aero 111 tyre with a width of just 26 millimetres is fitted at the front, supplemented at the rear by a Maxxis Highroad SL with a width of 28 millimetres - the fastest combination in the wind tunnel in conjunction with the DT Swiss wheels. With in-house Ikarus wheels and slightly wider tyres, the aero performance deteriorates to 206 watts. With flatter rims, weights of up to 5.8 kilograms are also possible.
Ikarus Faster: Climbing bike with the characteristics of an aero machine
In any configuration, the bike is a climbing bike with the characteristics of a very good aero machine, in principle the perfect all-rounder. There's no thick tube standing in the wind when you're banging along on the flat. The front section of the frame has a nose, similar to the bikes from Specialized or Trek. However, the shape of the head tube is unique, with the cross-section of the front face having the silhouette of an hourglass. The transition to the down tube is aerodynamically flowing, the down tube itself has a moderate aero profile (Kammtail) cut off on the side facing away from the wind. Overall, the frame has a very homogeneous design and does not utilise the maximum permissible tread depth according to UCI regulations. However, Ikarus has also dispensed with UCI certification. The bike is therefore not authorised for UCI races.
The bottom bracket is designed as a BSA bottom bracket with a continuous, partially milled sleeve. A problem-free technology, just like the UDH derailleur hanger, which is compatible with the new XPLR 1x13 drivetrains. Thru axles, fork bearings and cable guides/spacers are free of bells and whistles, which will ensure long-term spare parts availability and functionality.
Ikarus Faster - light, fast, comfortable
The lightness of the bike is very noticeable on the uphill test lap, the bike swings playfully from side to side when pedalling. It rolls fantastically on the flatter sections. The rider is the limit; but when isn't he? At slow speeds, the tip of the foot (size 45) just overlaps with the front wheel, but this is probably mainly due to the fact that the test rider would be better off riding a larger frame.
The steering geometry strikes the right balance between liveliness and directional stability, the ride is quiet and well damped despite the relatively slim tyres. The front wheel only twitches once in two hours, in the wake of a large lorry. The aero tyre on the front wheel noticeably calms things down, an experience we have also had with other test bikes. The low bottom bracket stiffness is not noticeable during the test ride, but the low riding stability is. The restriction is not great, the confidence is sufficient for a top speed of 80 km/h. However, the Faster does not ride on rails like a Specialised Tarmacit is more undefined, less direct. But it also doesn't vibrate during the test ride. The small 140 mm brake disc at the front takes away the venomous bite of the SRAM brakes and whines a little under full load. At the rear, 140 millimetre discs are easily sufficient.
Ikarus charges 8950 francs for the test bike. That's a lot of money, but compared to similar superbikes, it's actually very favourable. With simpler equipment (Ultegra or Force), prices from 6450 francs are possible. The TOUR score of 1.7 means that Ikarus has got almost everything right straight away. The Faster is a hot tip for marathon riders looking for an affordable high-end bike.
Ikarus Faster: Test grade, price, geometry, equipment, measured values, advantages and disadvantages
- Price: approx. 9600 Euro
- Weight of complete wheel: 6.25 kilos
- Frame sizes: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58 cm
- TOUR grade: 1,7
Geometry
- Seat/top/head tube: 472/545/135 millimetres
- Stack/Reach/STR: 555/380 millimetres/1.46
- Stack+/Reach+/STR+: 593/560 millimetres/1.06
- Wheelbase: 980/64 millimetres
Equipment
- Drive/gear shift: SRAM Red AXS (2x12, 48/35, 10-28 t.) | Note: 1,0
- Brakes: SRAM Red AXS (140/140 millimetres) | Note: 2,0
- Tyres: Conti Aero 111/Maxxis Highroad SL 26/28 mm | Note: 1,0
- Impellers: DT Swiss ARC 1100
- Impeller weights: 1099/1338 grams (v./h.)
Measured values
- Weight of complete wheel: 6200 grammes | Note: 1,0
- Aerodynamics: 204 Watt | Note: 1,0
- Driving stability: 5.8 N/mm | Note: 3,3
- Rear comfort: 120 N/mm | Note: 2,0
- Comfort front: 71 N/mm | Note: 2,0
- Ride/ bottom bracket stiffness: 45 N/mm | Note: 3,7
Ikarus Faster: advantages and disadvantages
Advantages
very light, very good aerodynamics, comfortable, comparatively inexpensive
Disadvantages
Driving stability slightly below average
