The Lower Saxony-based wholesaler Hartje is behind the Conway brand, which was previously known primarily for trekking bikes. With the "Q-RR 800", it has a solid model in its programme. The stable aluminium frame, protected by a robust anodised surface, is surrounded by the class-typical mix of "Ultegra" components, "Aksium" wheels from Mavic and "Ultremo" tyres from Schwalbe. The fact that the testers didn't quite get the spark, despite the actually promising basis, was due to the strange configuration with a very short stem and extra-wide handlebars, which will probably suit very few riders in this form. If, as we suspect, this is a slip-up, the bike should still find a buyer.
PLUS: good spring comfort on the saddle; robust surface
MINUS: wide handlebars; short stem; only four sizes
Web: www.conway-bikes.de
Weighted weights; **Test frame size greased; ***Projected dimension from centre of bottom bracket to top edge of head tube; ****Saddle to head tube rise at 75 cm seat height (centre of saddle frame - top edge of headset cap)
