TIFOSI CK8 DURO VELOCE £1999.99

› A titanium all-rounder that’s more than the sum of its parts

Snappy shifting and positive brakes set the tone for an invigorating

ride

he Duro’s butted titanium frame is finished with satin main tubes and logos that stand out in a contrasting mirror polish. The oversized tubes are rigid and Tifosi hasn’t felt the need for an oversized head-tube or bottom bracket.

The carbon fork has mudguard eyes and the CK8 comes with full ’guards as standard. The rear also has mudguard eyes, as well as rack mounts and a neat threaded brake bridge, which allows the rear ’guard to be mounted directly.

Both frame and fork have been designed around clearances for 28mm tyres with ’guards, so the CK8 could handle service as a fast tourer even on unsurfaced roads. Snappy shifting and positive brakes complement that sensation and set the tone for an invigorating ride.

Despite its middling weight and close-ratio cassette, the Tifosi is a capable companion on climbs thanks to the stiffness inherent in the chassis. The frame is laden with bosses that give the impression of a tourist’s cruiser but the geometry suggests a much sportier machine. With a 73-degree head angle and 73.5-degree seat-tube, it has plenty of sharpness in its steering.

The top-tube length makes for a racy riding position, one that’s taller than an out-and-out racer but ideal for an endurance bike.

Tifosi’s UK distributor, Chicken Cycles, has a long history with Italian brands so it’s no surprise to see Campagnolo Khamsin wheels shod with Vittoria tyres, and a mix of 10-speed Campagnolo Veloce and Miche brakes and cranks.

It all works well, and looks good too. Khamsin wheels aren’t the lightest but the stiffness is good, and while Vittoria’s Rubino 23c tyre left us cold in the past, the larger 25c version with its diamond-cut tread feels heaps better and grips well. The alloy finishing kit from Cinelli and DNA is basic but capable, while the Selle Italia X1 saddle is slim but comfortable and well made.

The Tifosi’s build kit doesn’t look great value on paper, but on the road the CK8’s chassis delivers a surprising ride and a reminder of where your money has really gone. Its frame and great ride feel way more exciting than the sensible winter trainer equipment would suggest.