The NEO Smart bike.
It’s a stunner, heavy and rock solid in use. Despite having wheels on the back it is not at all easy to manoeuvre. I have it on a mat and move it around relying on the mat to slide into position.
It has taken a few days to sort bike fit. I didn’t realise the BB is a little higher than either of my bikes and that threw me for a while. I think it’s sorted now- just need to raise saddle a smidge.
What’s it like to ride? Well, without the NEO’s movement I have had to adapt my riding style a bit. To be honest I didn’t like it at first and had a bit of buyers remorse but after 6 rides and, just now a race, I can say I am really glad I persevered. For example I had a bit of inner leg brush on the casing but that’s only noticeable when fully sat up and spinning slowly. I didn’t notice it at all in the race. Nor my cool down. Did I say it’s rigid?!? I did wonder if I could adapt but I have. Sprint power up over 100 watts and a new threshold peak in recent days suggest its not doing me any harm. Would I recommend it to any NEO owners? Not sure. If you need a bike to share with family then definitely. If not then aside from the kudos and pleasure of having one and protecting your favourite steed a NEO remains an truly excellent choice. I was lucky to have 2 ppi payouts and unlucky enough to have several cancelled cycle trips this year freeing up some money for this rather than an aero bike. That will be next year.