TIFOSI CAVAZZO CARBON

£1349.99

It’s a chunky, stealthy matt black carbon frame and fork, with especially hefty chainstays, though the seatstays are noticeably slimmer. There are neatly concealed mudguard eyelets and bags of clearance with 30mm tyres. As is the modern way, it has 12mm front and rear thru-axles. To achieve a carbon frame at this price Tifosi has had to step down to 10-speed Shimano Tiagra complete with cable-actuated flat-mount disc brakes. But today’s Tiagra owes much to trickle-down technology, looks great and works well, though the brakes are no match for the Hoy’s hydraulic stoppers. The wide-rimmed wheels from Weinmann are substantial but the cam-lock action of the DT Swiss RWS thru-axle quick-release is a breeze, and the 30mm Schwalbe tyres are excellent mixed-surface rubber: fast, tough and comfortable. The extra weight slows it down, but it’s plush, has a fine Fizik saddle and copes with gravel and tarmac, helped by its flared bar. A versatile bike if you mix up your rides.