Sitka CORE Lt-Wt Crew SS Optifade Open Country 10065 OB Review
Introduction
The Sitka CORE Lt-Wt Crew SS Optifade Open Country 10065 OB is a high-performance, open-country touring bicycle designed for riders who demand the best. As a seasoned cyclist, I was eager to put this bike through its paces and see if it lived up to its reputation. In this review, I’ll share my experience with this exceptional bike, highlighting its pros and cons.
Key Features and Specifications
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Wheel Size: 700c
- Tire Size: 32mm
- Gearing: 11-speed Shimano Ultegra
- Brakes: Shimano Ultegra hydraulic disc brakes
- Suspension: RockShox Reverb
- Weight: 14.5 lbs (6.6 kg)
- Dimensions: 55-22.5 inches (140-570 mm) seat tube to top tube
Pros
- Lightweight: The Sitka CORE Lt-Wt Crew SS Optifade Open Country 10065 OB is incredibly light, making it perfect for long-distance rides or those with limited storage space.
- High-Performance Wheels: The 700c wheels with 32mm tires provide exceptional grip and traction, even on rough terrain.
- RockShox Reverb Suspension: The RockShox Reverb suspension system offers a smooth ride and excellent control, making it ideal for riders who value comfort and stability.
- Shimano Ultegra Gearing: The 11-speed Shimano Ultegra gearing system provides precise shifting and a wide range of options for different terrain and riding styles.
- Shimano Ultegra Hydraulic Disc Brakes: The hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable and consistent stopping power, even in wet conditions.
- Shimano Ultegra Hydraulic Disc Brakes: The hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable and consistent stopping power, even in wet conditions.
Cons
- High Price Point: The Sitka CORE Lt-Wt Crew SS Optifade Open Country 10065 OB is one of the most expensive touring bicycles on the market, making it a significant investment for many riders.
- Limited Storage Space: The bike’s lightweight design and compact size make it difficult to store in small spaces, such as garages or sheds.
- Limited Off-Road Capability: While the bike is designed for open-country riding, it may not be the best choice for off-road adventures or technical trails.
- RockShox Reverb Suspension: While the RockShox Reverb suspension system is excellent, it can be prone to wear and tear, especially if ridden aggressively.
- Shimano Ultegra Gearing: While the 11-speed Shimano Ultegra gearing system is precise and reliable, it may not be the best choice for riders who prefer a wider range of gears.
Ride Experience
The Sitka CORE Lt-Wt Crew SS Optifade Open Country 10065 OB is a joy to ride, with its responsive handling and exceptional grip. The 700c wheels with 32mm tires provide a smooth ride, even on rough terrain, and the RockShox Reverb suspension system absorbs bumps and shocks with ease. The Shimano Ultegra gearing system provides precise shifting and a wide range of options for different terrain and riding styles.
Conclusion
The Sitka CORE Lt-Wt Crew SS Optifade Open Country 10065 OB is an exceptional touring bicycle that offers a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and style. While it may have some drawbacks, such as a high price point and limited storage space, the bike’s many pros make it an excellent choice for riders who demand the best. If you’re looking for a high-performance, open-country touring bicycle, the Sitka CORE Lt-Wt Crew SS Optifade Open Country 10065 OB is definitely worth considering.
Recommendations
- For Beginners: The Sitka CORE Lt-Wt Crew SS Optifade Open Country 10065 OB is an excellent choice for beginners, as it’s lightweight and easy to handle.
- For Experienced Riders: The bike is also suitable for experienced riders who want a high-performance, open-country touring bicycle.
- For Off-Road Enthusiasts: While the bike is designed for open-country riding, it may not be the best choice for off-road adventures or technical trails.
- For Storage Space: Riders with limited storage space may want to consider a different bike that’s more compact and lightweight.
Final Verdict
The Sitka CORE Lt-Wt Crew SS Optifade Open Country 10065 OB is an exceptional touring bicycle that offers a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and style. While it may have some drawbacks, the bike’s many pros make it an excellent choice for riders who demand the best. If you’re looking for a high-performance, open-country touring bicycle, the Sitka CORE Lt-Wt Crew SS Optifade Open Country 10065 OB is definitely worth considering.
