Fenix SL Disc Road Bike Frameset

If we said that it took some convincing for disc brakes to start grasping a hold in the peloton it would be an understatement. It was a bit more like pulling teeth with the pros, but for most riders, it doesn't take more than a day on discs to understand its benefits, which would explain why we've been seeing more disc-equipped bikes making their way first through the finish lines first in professional races. So, it should come as no surprise that Ridley's Fenix SL DiscRoad Bike Frameset is ready to tackle your most demanding rides be it over smooth roads or slick cobbles. It offers a stiff unidirectional carbon layup to transfer maximum power while soaking up vibrations from rural chip seal county roads, while its race-ready geometry doesn't forget that speed is an important element in having fun while you're out there. When you consider that Ridley hails from the capital of hard classic riders and races, you quickly realize that you have an able partner when giving it your all on your most heroic rides.

While this Fenix is more than capable in Flandrian sprint finishes and animated road race tactics, its combination of powerful disc brakes and artful layup of vibration devouring unidirectional carbon fibers expand its capabilities beyond buttery smooth pavement into roads (and paths) less traveled. In comparison to the super-stiff featherweight frames in Ridley's line that use up to 60-ton moduli, the Fenix SL utilizes a blend of 30-ton and 24-ton carbon to strike a balance between road-smoothing compliance, rigid efficiency, and race-worthy weight. Poorly graded gravel, cobbles, and other road hazards that would otherwise feel like jarring punches on a 60-ton carbon take on all the disagreeability of crosswalk paint, though the stiff, tapered head tube does provide responsive steering to dodge unrideable obstacles and skillfully dissects a winding canyon road.

Compared to the original Fenix, the Fenix Disc also has a slightly bigger wheelbase, measuring 2mm longer for a size medium. While this difference is more pronounced in the smaller sizes, even the bigger frames benefit from a more stable footing over packed gravel and tamer dirt roads. The adventure-minded cyclist will also appreciate the Disc model's increased tire clearance, allowing for bigger tires and maximum plushness and reliability on everything from epic rides over baking summer asphalt to winter base miles over slushy roads.

• All-terrain capable steed with geometry for endurance
• Carbon construction blends stiffness and compliance
• Beefy bottom bracket shell for efficient power transfer
• Endurance geometry balances comfort and responsiveness
• Tapered head tube adds responsive control to tracking
• Stop on a dime with hydraulic disc brakes