The verdict of our test riders is clear: The Krypton is a loyal companion for long distances. Despite the comparatively sporty riding position, the Argon 18's comfortable and directionally stable chassis is primarily responsible for this. The frame construction is reminiscent of the Giant Revolt, whose chassis is also relatively soft and therefore offers a lot of flex. This is an advantage for off-road riding. However, on tarmac roads, where an all-road bike still feels most comfortable, a more torsionally rigid base would be desirable.
Details in the picture gallery
Only rough terrain poses problems for the Krypton, as the Canadians fit narrow and treadless tyres as standard, which offer little traction in bends. However, with tyres up to 40 millimetres wide, you can make adjustments depending on the intended use. As a unique feature in our test field, Argon 18 integrates a storage compartment including a nylon bag into the down tube. Despite the partial integration, the height of the aluminium handlebar/stem combination can be easily adjusted. The mountain-compatible gear ratio rounds off the overall impression of a very accessible and therefore beginner-friendly all-road model - if it weren't for the price tag.
All all-road bikes in the test
Argon 18 Kryton - facts and reviews
- Price6175 Euro
- Weight: 8,4 Kilo
- Frame/fork/steering bearing weight* 1299/430/103 grammes
- Frame sizes** XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL
- Seat/top tube/head tube 520/555/150 millimetres
- Stack/Reach/STR*** 586/383 millimetres/1.53
- Wheelbase/caster 1005/62 millimetres
Equipment
- Drive/Circuit SRAM Force AXS (2x12; 48/35, 10-33 t.)
- Brakes SRAM Force (160/160 millimetres)
- Wheels/tyres (weights)**** Hunt 4 Season/Vittoria Rubino Pro 30 millimetres (f./h.: 1426/1791 grams)
Strengthsvery good suspension comfort, storage compartment in the down tube, low maintenance
Weaknesseshigh price, low driving stability for heavy drivers
>> The Argon gets an overall TOUR score of 2.2
*Weighed weights
**Manufacturer information, test size bold.
***Stack/Reach Projected vertical/horizontal dimension 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 a very upright sitting position.
****Impeller weights including tyres, cassette, quick release/threaded axles and brake discs if necessary.
Julian Schultz
Editor
