To promote the Canadian brand Argon 18 had become quiet recently. After the end of the sponsorship of the teams Bora-Hansgrohe (2015/16) and Astana (2017-2019), the wheels were no longer in the World Tour and therefore not to be seen in the Tour de France. However, smaller racing teams, various national track cycling teams and triathletes continue to rely on the brand, which is known as a noble gas which is also and above all used in welding and the production of metals.
The new competition model Sumthat Argon 18 in the spring is, of course, based on a contemporary approach. Carbon frame. By analogy with the name, the racer is the sum of Aerodynamics, Lightweight construction and Comfort represent. Does this mean it has what it takes to serve as a tool for professionals on the World Tour again in the future?
Seating position of a racer
The Sitting posture on the bike leaves no doubt as to its purpose, more racing character is hardly possible. Due to the relatively long stem on the test bike, the seat is extremely stretched. The Neck- and Back muscles This demands a lot from the rider, especially when it takes longer to reach the finish line.
Advantage: The crouched position, which is also used on thoroughbred competition machines is rather unusual, you offer the headwind as a significant driving resistance less surface to attack - which makes the aerodynamic set-up has improved noticeably overall. Our measurements in the GST wind tunnel in Immenstaad resulted in a power requirement of 223 watts for the Test speed from 45 km/h.
Midfield position for Argon 18 Sum
Among the Race all-rounders (see test in TOUR 12/21) takes the Sum This puts it in the middle of the field; the best bikes in this category require up to 15 watts less for this speed. According to computer simulations by the Canadians, the Sum be just as good aerodynamically as their special Nitrogen Disc aero racer. The tube shapes have been optimised for this purpose, which can be seen in particular on the elaborately shaped head tube. An integrated Handlebar-stem unit the designers have done without.
They often combine aerodynamic advantages with Disadvantages at the Assembly and Adjustability. Our stiffness measurements in the laboratory reveal slightly below-average values in the Steering head as in the Bottom bracket. Lightweight racing cyclists can use the Sum The bike is easy to control in fast-paced corners and descents, but heavy riders and athletic sprinters will want a slightly more stable base. In return springs the wheel excellent. The weight of the frame remains just under the one-kilo limit. The fork is almost 500 grammes comparatively difficult and prevents a better grade.
In total, the Argon 18 Sum is a well-rounded package, but does not stand out in any particular discipline. The racer is available in two different carbon layups from 6050 Euro and can be customised using the online configurator. With the higher-quality wheels from DT Swiss (ARC 1400) As in the test, the Sum on 7653 Euro. The Sum Pro with a lighter frame is available with otherwise largely identical basic equipment from 7600 Euro. However, at the time of going to press in mid-July, many options were not available in the online configurator. Argon 18 also points out that the bike may not be delivered until the end of the year due to supply bottlenecks.
Facts about the Argon 18 Sum
- Price: 7653 Euro
- Info: www.argon18.com
Weight frame/fork/steering bearing* 996/488/88 grammes
Frame sizes** XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL
Seat/top tube/head tube 505/560/128 mm
Stack/Reach/STR*** 552/395 mm /1.40
Wheelbase/caster 990/55 mm
Features of the Argon 18 Sum
Drive/Circuit Shimano Ultegra Di2 (2x12, 52/36, 11-30 t.)
Brakes Shimano Ultegra (160/140 mm)
Wheels/tyres (weights)**** DT Swiss ARC 1400 Dicut/Vittoria Corsa Control 25 mm (f./h. 1255/1,658 g)
*Weighed weights. **Manufacturer information Test size bold. ***Stack/Reach Projected vertical/horizontal measurement from the centre of the bottom bracket to the top of the head tube; STR (Stack to Reach) 1.36 means a very stretched, 1.60 an upright riding position. ****Impeller weights including tyres, cassette, quick release/threaded axles and brake discs if necessary.
Julian Schultz
Editor
