The frame is taut like a bow, while climbing gear changes sounds like shots going off as the sound
is amplified through the stiff al frame. This extraordinarily stiff frame transfers all your effort
to the drive wheel. Was a little concerned about the lack of lower gears for climbing but the bike
is so light and the transfer of effort so efficient that the need for lower gearing was quickly
dispelled. Felt faster, stronger on it with less effort than perhaps any bike I have ever ridden.
Have not had the opportunity to heft an Aero but the Formula is certainly lighter than all other
bikes I have encountered.
Assumed that the ride would be rather bone jarring, not necessarily so. Certainly not as subtle
as steel but not like you might remember early al road bikes. Actually think the seat, carbon
pan, absorbs some of the road shock. Something does and it cannot be the thin, light seat pad nor
the frame.
The XT shifters work great but are a tad intrusive as the thump lever sets inside the bar and tends
to hit your knee a bit when turning sharply. Also that big push with your thumb to get to the big
ring is a bit awkward because you do not have straight forward leverage on the thumb shifter. You
are pushing on the thumb shifter from an angle. Otherwise the drive train is swift and precise.
Expect the Formula to be impressive, it is that, and more. Kelly.
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