Diamondback

Century 2 Ultegra Complete Road Bike - 2016

As far as endurance road bikes go, it's rare to find one that blends tech sheet bling and affordability as well as Diamondback's Century 2 Ultegra Complete Road Bike. We mean it: the Century 2 boasts a build kit that includes a Shimano Ultegra and 105 drivetrain, Shimano's new 105-tier hydraulic disc brakes, and HED's Flanders Plus rims. This is all carried on a frame engineered for long-term comfort, which is no surprise, considering the 100-mile rides that inspired the Century 2's model name.

The treated 7005 aluminum alloy that Diamondback uses to shape the Century 2's frame is stronger than the more common 6061 alloy but maintains the same durability and low weight. Diamondback builds the frame in accordance with its Enhanced Performance Geometry, which includes a taller head tube to orient riders in a more upright position in the saddle and place less strain on their necks and shoulders. The carbon fork carries the responsibility of absorbing fatiguing road vibrations while taking advantage of the tapered head tube to provide reliable steering and handling.

Riding a century with grinding gears or mechanical problems isn't a fate we'd wish on any rider — not least of all because the volunteer support mechanics may mean well but they're often not equipped to handle situations that end rides rather than just make for choppy shifting. With the Century 2, Diamondback ensures that whether you head out for your favorite neighborhood loop or a fully supported gran fondo, your gears will help, rather than hinder, your progress. A blend of Shimano 11-speed Ultegra and 105 makes this possible, with luxuriously smooth Ultegra derailleurs paired with capable 105-tier shifters. The entire drivetrain complemented by Shimano's new, 105-tier hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power.

Diamondback lends more versatility to the Century 2 with its inclusion of HED's expansive Flanders Plus wheelset, a longtime favorite for custom wheel builders the world over. The Flanders' 25mm external widths are wrapped in Michelin Dynamic Sport 28mm tires, giving you the option to ride on rougher roads and mixed-surface bike paths with far greater stability than slimmer tires would allow. Sometimes the paved road ends before the century does, but the Century 2's wide rims and plush tires won't be intimidated by a bit of gravel.