The frame is a good 100 grams heavier than the models from Trek & Co. Thanks to the super-light fork, which is both laterally stiff and comfortable, the frameset still weighs in at an impressive 1,157 grams. Formally, the X-Lite continues what Rose started two years ago with the Xeon series. The frames are more independent than before. The new silhouette is characterised by the aluminium seat clamp, which is integrated into the transition between the top tube and seat tube and distributes the clamping force over the entire surface of the carbon seat post. Rose also offers the X-Lite in a version with the full programme of tuning components, which weighs less than 5 kilograms. However, we also liked the bike exceptionally well with the equipment made from mass-produced parts. We can't praise the perfectly shaped EvoCurve handlebars from Ritchey enough. The light running of the Conti folding time trial tyres could be addictive if it weren't for the notoriously limited mileage. The only discordant note is the piercing whistling of the wheels when braking at high speeds - a known problem with all Exalith-coated aluminium rims from Mavic when new. However, this should disappear after a certain break-in period.
CONCLUSION Extremely stable lightweight with a sensational fork. Pleasantly grounded price, equipped for everyday use. Top comfort on the saddle and handlebars.
Price 4,199 Euro
Weight 5.8 kilos
Available via mail order | construction kit
Reference/Info www.roseversand.de
Frame/fork/steering bearing weight 812/276/49 grammes
Frame sizes 50, 53, 55, 57, 59, 62 cm
Seat/steering angle 73,5°/73,5°
Seat/top tube/head tube 530/565/165 mm plus 15 mm headset cap
Wheelbase/caster 995/48 mm
Stack/Reach/STR 567/397 mm/1.43
Equipment
Steering bearing FSA, top 1-1/8, bottom 1.5 inch
Brakes/gears/bottom bracket SRAM Red 22 (52/36 t., press-fit)
Wheels/tyres Mavic R-SYS SLR/Continental Grand Prix TT 23C
Handlebar/stem Ritchey WCS Superlogic EvoCurve/Ritchey WCS
Saddle/post Selle Italia SLS Monolink/Ritchey WCS (27.2 mm)
* The frame set accounts for 40 per cent and the equipment for 60 per cent of the overall grade. The grades are calculated with all decimal places up to the final grade; however, for the sake of clarity, all grades are given with rounded decimal places.
** Weighed weights.
*** Manufacturer's specification, test size bold.
Downloads:
download
