In Time's current range of four models, the Fluidity S is the long-distance model - recognisable by its relatively short top tube in relation to its size, which enables a comparatively upright position. Vibration damping was a key development goal. To achieve this, a mix of carbon and more elastic Vectran fibres are used in the frame and fork. The effect is really noticeable on rough tarmac. Despite the very narrow tubular tyres on which the test bike built by the German importer rolled, the suspension did not feel unstable or too hard. However, the noticeable nervousness in fast bends could not be ignored. The torsional stiffness is limited by the small diameter of the top tube and down tube at the junctions with the seat tube and bottom bracket. The laterally unyielding fork and the stiff handlebar/stem combination alleviate the problem, but heavy riders with a penchant for fast descents will not be really happy with the Fluidity S. Otherwise, the very light, high-quality bike rides flawlessly and is a lot of fun. A big plus is the lifetime guarantee on all components manufactured by Time.
Price 8,299 Euro
Weight 6.1 kilos
Available in specialised shops
Reference/Info www.time-sport.com
Frame sizes** XXXS, XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL
Seat/steering angle 73°/73°
Seat/top tube/head tube 705/570/ 202 mm plus 19 mm headset cap
Wheelbase/caster 995/56 mm
Stack/Reach/STR*** 596/388 mm/1.54
EQUIPMENT
Steering bearing Time, top 1-1/8, bottom 1-1/4 inch
Brakes/gears Campagnolo Super Record
Bottom bracket FSA K-Force Light (50/34 t., BB30)
Wheels/tyres Xentis Squad 4.2/Vittoria Corsa Evo CX 21C (tubular tyre)
Handlebar/stem Time RTM Ergodrive/Time RTM
Saddle/post Fizik Arione/Time (integrated)
MEASURED VALUES & INDIVIDUAL NOTES
Weight of complete wheel 6.1 kg (without pedals)
Weight frame/fork/steering bearing**** 1.129/412/37 g
Standardised weight frame set***** 1.575 g: 2,3
Steering head stiffness 67 Nm/°: 4.0
Lateral stiffness fork 58 N/mm: 1.0
Bottom bracket stiffness 48 N/mm: 1.0
Comfort frame 249 N/mm: 2.7
Comfort fork 116 N/mm. 5,0
* The frame set accounts for 40 per cent of the overall score and the features for 60 per cent. Individual grades are included in this assessment, only some of which are printed for reasons of space. The grades are calculated up to the final grade with all decimal places; however, for the sake of clarity, all grades are given with rounded decimal places.
** Manufacturer's specifications; 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 sitting position.
**** Weighed weights.
***** Adjusted weight for frame size 57 cm and fork steerer length 225 mm.
