Raleigh Capri 3.0 (2013)

Pros

Carbon fork
Shimano 105 drivetrain and brakes
Price

Cons

at this price not many cons!

Review

Raleigh have really stepped it up in the last couple of years and no more so than in the "sport" road bike category within which the Capri, (or Revenio for men), sits. This bike introduces some great performance quality components at what is typically a fairly entry level price point.

It doesn't seem that long ago Shimano 105 was the "wanna start racing" groupset...now it is being specced on recreational road bikes! Yes, the Capri benefits from great component decisions by Raleigh, 105 performs like an affordable Dura Ace and this bike gets it not only in the shifters and derailleur, but also brake calipers. All this for $1299? Good work Raleigh!

The Capri sports an alloy frame and carbon fork to help isolate and dampen road feedback coming through the front wheel, it also helps with overall weight. The Capri is the women's specific model and is equipped with a saddle appropriate for a girls bum, comfort geometry to make this road bike easy to ride all day, while retaining the high performance characteristics of a thoroughbred road bike.

The drivetrain is typically compact (50/34t) with a wide range cassette, which pretty much speaks volumes about the intended rider of this style of bike. Lots of easily spinning gear options for the less serious among us. While other parts are not at the same performance level, I feel the wheels, tires and cockpit components would be more than adequate for an average rider.

It is obvious I liked this bike. It has an easily recognisable target market, but doesn't skimp on component choices. I can't help feel this shows respect for the recreational "weekend warrior". Nice work!