And she finally arrived:
I usually don‘t try to hype up bikes too much, but this one is an absolute weapon.
It’s reasonably light (8kg dead with the Top Tube Bag, pedals etc.), definitely capable, and just feels aero AF. It’s really hot where I live right now, so the air is thin, and the ground is hard, optimal for going fast. But boy does it do its‘ part of the equation well.
In my Dura Ace config, 40c rear (measuring 42mm) is all I‘d recommend.
Also, the inner ring (34) is dangerously close to the chain stay. Factor has however installed a thin metal plate there, which definitely helps shield the carbon from the steel teeth.
The tires (Tufo Thundero 40) are lightning quick, but I have already punctured the rear tire after just 70k. It sealed with a dynaplug, but that’s not ideal, having me look for a new tire.
The Dura Ace works surprisingly well. I have not spared it, and chain slap has been okay, while shifting performance was what you‘d expect from Shi.
Edit: it’s awesome there is an option to cleanly mount aero bars, as I think they are a great addition to any gravel bike. Especially in racing an long distance events. However, the clean solution we saw on Dylan Johnson‘s bike clearly did not make it to market, leaving us with 4 holes drilled into the handlebars, with little rubber plugs to cover them when not in use. I find this a pretty poor solution, and have taped these over now.
