you've always wanted to enter the world of carbon

[NeilM]

Re:

A BSO is a BSO regardless of what it's made from. However, all the doubters suggesting all 'Eastern' carbon frames are likely to snap at the first sign of proper use are forgetting that for Argos to sell this bike, it must reach certain British or European standards, you will often find Chinese frame manufacturers also advertising the fact that their frames comply with the relevant BS EN codes. Plus, a retailer has a contractual duty of care to supply goods fit for the purpose.

So, if the frame was dodgy and did break during reasonable use Argos could be legally liable on several different fronts.

Would I buy one? No, but mainly due to the fact I prefer to pay a bit more for a higher spec.

 

[Barchettaman]

Other than the ICE square taper bottom bracket the spec is equivalent to bikes costing twice as much.

In face, I think it's in a class of its own. I haven't seen anything with a full carbon frameset, good groupset - yes, new Sora really is good stuff - and decent wheels for under 800. At the pricepoint of the Ventura you're looking at Tourney/alu frame/steel fork/horrid wheels (with a few exceptions, the older Triban 3 being one).

It's a contadiction, full carbon and good spec at that pricepoint, and probably the best offer I've seen all year. Homebase also sell them mail order via their internet site.

 

[David B]

Other than the ICE square taper bottom bracket the spec is equivalent to bikes costing twice as much.

I guess a few non-Sora bits (brakes, chain maybe?) have been worked in here and there to shave a bit of the production costs and hence the retail price.

In all fairness to Argos, as has already been mentioned the bike is being sold at 50% off RRP - only 2 sizes seem to be left in stock so maybe the price drop is to shift the remainder?

I wouldn't buy one myself, but purely 'cause I like both (a) steel frames and (b) Campagnolo.

David

 

[Ritz]

I'm pretty sure I seen one the other day locked up in someones works premises I was visiting.

It certainly caught my eye and did look nice.

Not for me, I'm still wary about riding aluminium now and then, never mind carbon.

Steel for me please.

 

[oonaff]

the sensa romagna alloy with 105 retailing at about £750 sounds good according to the reviews.
my first venture into modern alloy was a bit disapointing though,despite it having all sorts of different shaped tubes and 'flex technology' written all over it it lacked livelyness.
the journey continues to try out the lot.