Argon18KryptonCS

In the Krypton range, Argon 18 has always offered an adaptable design thanks to the 3D headset/headtube arrangement, in which screw-in spacers allowed you to raise the stack height without compromising front-end stiffness. The CS here uses its new system, 3D Plus, which combines the head-tube extensions into the frame, for optimised aerodynamics.

The 72-degree head-tube angle is standard stuff, but it’s combined with a longer fork to make the steering smooth and stable. The big volume tyres, Argon claims clearance for 32mm, frameset and great handling are excellent at minimising road vibrations.

Complementing the front end is an angular oversized fork housing a flat-mount disc fitting and a 12mm DT Swiss thruaxle, even though the wheels come from Fulcrum. Argon has also chosen to fit hidden mudguard eyes, making the CS a true all-year-rounder.

The chassis is brilliant, with wonderful attention to detail, but it’s fitted with basic Fulcrum wheels, which are stiff enough but do add weight. The standard Shimano disc rotors provide enough stopping power, but are more prone to noise than higher-grade units like the new 8020 IceTec versions.

We were left with the impression of a bike that meets what we look for in an endurance machine with great details, innovative ideas and good looks, and is also a real blast to ride.