The last few weeks the bright orange 3athlon.be Sportoase racing machine was more than visible on our socials, but now we'd like to take some time to get up close and personal with our Ridley Fenix SL. Thanks to our partnership with Ridley Bikes we will be the living showcase of this Belgian companies top bike (the Dean will follow later on).
Ridley Pure Line
We start off with the most remarkable feature: the frame! The bright color will seize our anonymity on Belgian roads, but even for you this is obtainable. Until the end of Februari, Ridley held the 'Pure Line' promotion, allowing you to get a free customized paint job for your new frame.
Ridley Fenix SLX Disc
The best way to describe this model is 'an ideal all rounder': both the Fenix SL as the Fenix SLX Disc. Both models were put at our disposal and hold no more secrets. Besides the obvisipus disc difference, the SLX rear bridge joins the frame lower, making a more aggressive look. Both models are supreme at comfort, on bounce Flemish roads or on steep Pyrenese climbs.
SWS Wheels
No fancy frame without a matching wheelset. This as well is of Belgian origin by Kris Seminck. For our custom frame we had to experiment with different decals to find the ideal match. The 55mm Disc centerlock with black/white decals won the race. Even customized wheelsets are obtainable for the everyday rider, it's an SWS Wheels trademark. Visit them at Aalst in their new shop, we will be there at the opening and will provide some footage.
Profile Design - Fabric
No bike without handlebars or saddle, so we visited our partner BAIK at Nossegem. Profil Design has had its merits in the triathlon world, but finishing touches on road bikes are also part of their scope. The handlebars are hot: Canta Ergo Drop with Aeria Stem. Ergonomic aero handlebars with integrated cabling and a -17° stem giving you an aggressive position. The saddle was provided by Fabric, at this point we are still testing three different version: we like our buts.
Shimano groupset
The final touches were given by Lievens Bike Repair, Gert-Jan's year long bike shop and partner behind the 'De Rit' series. The Fenix SL Disc was rapidly equipped with a complete Ultegra R8000 groupset, with its fancy crank, and Shimano RT-800 disc brakes make the whole picture.
If we fail, it won't be the bike's fault. #BeTOUGH
Original article on 3athlon.be by Gert-Jan D'haene on 03/03/2018
Translation by @T0v3