Marathon bikes for around 4000 euros: The Veto B983 on test

The name Veto is probably only familiar to a few die-hard cycling fans, as the Erfurt-based cycling wholesaler Ra-Co's own brand has been dormant for a good 20 years. The revival in the middle of the Corona years pursues the goal of offering comparatively simple, inexpensive bikes in order to counteract the constantly upward price spiral. The test debut at TOUR with the B983 - the simple-looking model name refers to the 983 metre-high Großer Beerberg, the highest mountain in Thuringia - underlines this claim.

The clearly drawn frame with a classic silhouette dispenses with playful design features and aero shapes; only the neatly integrated cables are a concession to current developments. Apart from that, the bike is designed with an emphasis on practicality: A standard-sized round seat post with external clamp and clamped handlebars make it easy to adjust the position.

Veto B983: Light and stable

In this test, the bike scored highly with its low weight and stable frame. The equipment is also upmarket for the price range: You won't find a Shimano Ultegra Di2 with carbon rims from the major manufacturers at this price, only Cube can keep up. The Veto has to accept marks for the only average comfort of the frameset; other manufacturers with special constructions offer better suspension. In terms of its orientation, the bike is one of the sportier representatives of its class, the riding position is on the borderline of a competition racer.

Although the B983 is firm, it is not really uncomfortable to ride, which is mainly due to the comfortable saddle and the excellent grip of the Engage handlebars. The tyres, which are significantly wider than the specified 28 millimetres, also play their part. The Czech Tufo tyres are rarely found elsewhere; they roll well, but seem a little slippery when cornering. Apart from this small weakness, the Veto offers a lot for the money. This also applies to the rest of the comparatively compact portfolio: The B983 is available for 1000 euros less with Shimano 105 Di2, and a gravel bike is also on offer.

Veto B983: Info & test grade

• Price: 3999 Euro
• Weight of complete wheel: 7.8 kilos
• Frame sizes: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58 (frame size greased)
• TOUR grade: 2,0

Geometry

• Seat/top/head tube: 480/540/142 millimetres
• Stack/Reach/STR: 562/377 millimetres/1.49
• Stack+/Reach+/STR+: 625/585 millimetres/1.07
• Wheelbase/caster: 985/64 millimetres

Equipment

• Drive/gear shift: Shimano Ultegra Di2 (2x12; 50/34, 11-30 t.) | Shimano Ultegra Di2 (2x12; 50/34, 11-30 t.) Grade: 1.0 (5 % share of the overall grade)
• Brakes: Shimano Ultegra (160/160 mm) | Grade: 1.0 (5 % share of the overall grade)
• Tyres: Tufo Contura Prima 28 mm (eff.: 32 mm) | Grade: 2.0 (5 % share of the overall grade)
• Impellers: Fulcrum Wind 42
• Impeller weights: 1248/1652 grams (front/rear)

Measured values

• Weight of complete wheel: 7760 grammes | Grade: 2.7 (25 % share of the overall grade)
• Rear comfort: 166 N/mm | Grade: 2.7 (20 % share of the overall grade)
• Comfort front: 101 N/mm | Grade: 3.0 (10 % share of the overall grade)
• Front stiffness: 8.7 N/mm | Grade: 1.3 (10 % share of the overall grade)
• Bottom bracket stiffness: 64 N/mm | Grade: 1.0 (10 % share of the overall grade)
• Lacquer: Grade: 1.0 (5 % share of the overall grade)
• Maintenance/adjustment: Grade: 1.0 (5 % share of the overall grade)

Advantages and disadvantages of the Veto B983

• Plus: Above-average equipment, maintenance-friendly design
• Minus: little comfort for an endurance road bike

All 12 bikes in the comparison test

• Canyon Endurace CF SLX 7 Di2
• Cervélo Caledonia 105 Di2
• Cube Agree C:62 SLX
• Focus Paralane 8.8 >> available here
• Giant Daffy Advanced 0 >> available here
• Koga Roqa Premium >> available here
• Merida Scultura Endurance Rival Edition
• Rose Reveal 04 105 Di2 >> available here
• Scott Addict 30 >> available here
• Stevens Izoard Pro
• Storck Fascenario.3 Comp
• Veto B983

>> We have compiled all the information about our test here.