2w ago

Aethos build: contact points

Build update: handlebars, saddle and pedals arrived!

Vision Trimax 4D Compact in 44cm: 220g
SQlab 612 R Carbon with big ass logo (like this version for some reason) in 14cm: 127g
Shimano M540: 349g pair

I chose these bars because they are one of the very few that get the ergonomics right: 10° of forward flare at the tops! I saw only SQlab (expensive and weird shape) and maybe Roval do this pretty obvious thing.

The saddle is just the sporty version of the 612 I have on my gravel bike. Awesome ergonomics.

In the future I’d like to switch to road pedals, but for now I splurged enough for the bike, new road shoes and power meter can wait.

Usual close ups (product photography tips anyone?!):

12 comments

I don't think you need any photo tips - these all look amazing!
I'm living my fancy bike dreams vicariously through you... (Although I'm also obsessed with SPD pedals on all my bikes so I wouldn't even change those, except maybe for some minimal crank bros ones...)
- Thanks, glad you like these posts! The pedal thing is something I have to think through, actually, but for now I am set.
What is the appeal of road pedals over SPD types?
I have only ever used SPD on and off road, it is purely a weight thing?
- I suppose weight and aerodynamics and that’s it actually. Cons are single sided entry and no walking :D
  
  Those latter two are the main reasons I never bothered to look into them but wondered if I was missing out on something else. I don't chase weight or anything so seems I'm best sticking to what I know and have already :)
- The platform of road pedals is larger which I find more comfortable if I'm going to spend a long time in the saddle with few stops. I generally don't to that which is why I only have one set of road pedals and shoes and multiples of SPD and flat pedals with shoes.
  
  I can't say I've ever had discomfort in my feet on long rides but my longest rides are also only around 60 - 70km sort of region.

12 comments