First ride today on my new titanium

[TrevorM]

My new Dawes Sportif Ultra Ti arrived on Wed so took it on for a short 8 mile test today.
I've only ever had touring bikes and currently have a Dawes Galaxy.
The Ti was faster as I expected - I've done this route many times and it was 1 mph faster than my previous best. 8 miles isn't much of a test but considering I was gear changing badly (never used STI shifters) and still getting the bike set up properly I was pleased and it should be a lot faster once I get used to it.

The big surprise was how comfortable it was! The road noise and vibration was MUCH less than the Galaxy. The Galaxy is fitted with 30C Marathons while the new bike has Durano 25Cs at 95. So I was expecting less comfort. Very surprised and pleased.

The frame geometry isn't much different from the Galaxy so I'm assuming it's the titanium and carbon blades and seat post?

Just wanted to share my pleasure.

 

[ColinJ]

It sounds great!

I always fancied getting a Ti bike. Maybe if I ever buy a touring bike, I'll buy a Ti one.

 

[Garz]

Agree with your first impressions Trevor. My new Ti machine definitely soaks up these horrible winter haggard pot-hole roads pretty well, cant wait till the weather improves enough not to need gloves/overshoes/jacket/buff to really put it through it's paces!

 

[Banjo]

I think the carbon forks make a big difference. My alluminium road bike with carbon forks and 23c tyres at 120lb/inch is far more comfortable than my alluminium bike with chromoly forks and 32c tyres at 100lb/inch