Diamondback

Century 3 Carbon Shimano 105/Tiagra Road Bike - 2014

Although recognized more often among mountain bikers than road cyclists, the Diamondback legacy draws upon over a century of road experience to develop a line of bikes for every rider imaginable. And while Diamondback, originally known as Centurion, was formed in 1969, in 1999, its pedigree was married with the expertise of Raleigh Bicycles, which was born in Nottingham, England over 130 years ago.

Diamondback understands that not every ride needs to, or should be, a race. And whether you participate in one of the many Gran Fondos popping up all over the country, or you just prefer to spend your weekends on scenic leisure rides, the Century 3 Carbon Complete Bike features a build and geometry that'll have you pedaling in comfort mile after mile.

Perhaps the most noticeable technology in the Century 3 is the carbon frame. Although it won't break the bank, its carbon frame features many of the design technologies that Diamondback uses in its lauded Podium platform. And unlike many frames that are either manufactured with carbon welded tubes or a monocoque design, Diamondback's proprietary Advanced Tube to Tube (ATT) design with "Core Control" conjoins both technologies. This method utilizes a monocoque head and down tube and joins them with a separate monocoque of the bottom bracket and chainstays. These two structures form the "core" of the frame, and they work to provide both smooth handling, through front-end control, and rear stiffness for optimal power transfer to the drivetrain. The remaining tubes integrate with carbon welding, or as its also known, Tube to Tube construction. This adds a bit of compliance to the feel of the bike, which aids in absorbing bumps from rough roads.

Diamondback's DB Carbon Road Performance Fork completes the frame. The fork features carbon wrapped legs for stiffness and torsional strength, but unlike the hand-laid, AMMP carbon fork included on the Century 4, the crown and steerer tube are more durable, but are constructed from a slightly heavier alloy.

However, Diamondback knows that all of the technology behind the frame construction doesn't mean anything if the bike doesn't fit you. For this reason, Diamondback's Enhanced Performance Geometry was born. It combines the fit of its more aggressive carbon competition frames with a slightly higher head tube. And a result, you'll find that the frame geometry puts less strain on your back and neck. The more upright position improves comfort for riders with less pelvic rotation and core stability.

The Diamondback Century 3 complete bike was designed with internal cable routing. It's also Di2 compatible if you choose to upgrade from the included component package. For the shift/ levers and front derailleur, Diamondback included Shimano Tiagra Dual-Control components. The rear derailleur is a durable Shimano 105 10-speed. You'll find that the drivetrain is driven by a 50/34t FSA Omega Compact Mega EXO N10 cranks, a FSA CN910 chain, and a Shimano Tiagra CS-4600 12/30t cassette. The cockpit build is a complete repertoire of Diamondback components. You rest on a DBR performance saddle and roll on Diamondback's new Equation RS wheels with Michelin Dynamic Sport 700c x 25mm tires. Lastly, stopping power is handled by Tektro R540 dual-pivot brakes.

The Diamondback Century 3 Carbon Complete Bike is available in the color Silver and in five even sizes from 52 to 60cm./p>