Ridley

Fenix SL 30 Complete Road Bike - 2016

When you hear a bike was built with endurance geometry, don't make the mistake of assuming that means it was made for easy recreational riding and non-competitive pursuits. On the contrary, endurance frames are often the top choice for pro's racing in grueling all-day races like the spring classics, and the 2016 Ridley Fenix SL 30 Complete Road Bike exemplifies the blend of comfort and compliance that these powerful frames possess. Use the Fenix SL in your next long road race, in a fondo with the family, and on your everyday training rides to experience a better ride quality without sacrificing a lightweight, quick frame.

Ridley uses high-modulus carbon fiber to shape each Fenix SL frame, giving the Fenix SL the ability to absorb fatiguing road vibrations while remaining willowy and lithe on the roads. It flattened the seatstays and top tube, positioning the top tube on a curve to help it dampen vibrations, while still maintaining a high level of lateral stiffness and rigidity.

Since the Fenix SL was designed with the rigors of the cobbles in mind, Ridley also reinforced the top and down tubes of the frame to enable the entire structure to manage the forces delivered by inconsistent roads and big bursts of power. Rather than trying to calm a twitching race frame through a winding descent, the Fenix SL will allow you to blast down varied sections of road at high speeds with controlled speeds and finesse. Its more relaxed angles also suit the Fenix SL to long rides by orienting you in a more natural body position than that of narrow, squished race frames.

Aside from the capable frame, the Fenix SL comes complete with a pretty impressive build kit to match, including componentry from Shimano's incredibly competent Ultegra drivetrain. Fulcrum Racing wheels spin on Campagnolo-designed hubs. This build may inspire you to try the Fenix SL in your next local race, though it's happy to spend its days as a training companion if that's more your style.