Finally, after waiting to get all of the components, and taking the time to build everything, my new racing machine for 2009 is complete (with one minor exception). After I got the insurance money from the crash, I wanted to build up a bike that would be perfect for racing, a real no-compromise, serious, single-minded machine. I also knew that crashes happen, having survived two very serious ones (both resulting in broken bikes) in a two week span, so I wanted a bike that would not break the proverbial bank if I hit the pavement and need to replace the frame.
With those two primary criteria in mind, and with a club sponsorship from Cannondale, the choice was pretty obvious: the 2009 CAAD 9. It is an all aluminum frame with a carbon fork, and the geometry is fairly aggressive, ready for racing. If you look at some of the races around here, you will see a lot of CAAD 9 frames, especially among the serious, broke, strong racers–the guys who need to win primes so they have enough gas money to get home. The frame is solid and dependable, and you can get one, especially if you are lucky enough to have a sponsorship, for less than a decent set of race wheels. A lot less.
When I saw that Campagnolo had a new 11 speed system out, I decided I should build up the new machine with those components, but, in keeping with my affordability mandate, I had to shop around carefully and buy a mix of components instead of a full Super Record gruppo. Here is the full build:
Frame/Fork: 2009 Cannondale CAAD 9 with ultra fork (alloy steerer)
Stem: FSA OS99
Bar: FSA Wing Pro Compact (alloy)
Seatpost: FSA K-Force
Saddle: Fizik Arione CX
Shifters: Campagnolo Chorus 11 Speed
Front Derailleur: Campagnolo Chorus 11
Rear Derailleur: Campagnolo Record 11
Crankset: Campagnolo Super Record 11 53/39 (hollow carbon with CULT ceramic bearings)
Brake Calipers: Campagnolo Record 10 (with the Ti bolts)
Cassette: Campagnolo Chorus 11 speed 11-25
Computer: Garmin Edge 705 Team
Wheels (training): Fulcrum Racing 1
Wheels (racing): Flashpoint FP60 (these require a a hub adjustment before I can fit the cassette on)
And here are some pictures:
That seat gave me the sensation of wanting to cross my legs. I guess it must be more comfortable than it looks, right? I don’t know much (anything) about bikes, but even so, this looks a very elegant and fierce little number. Here’s to another glorious season on it!
Now THAT, my friend, is one suh-weet ride!
I’m at least as impressed that you built it up yourself.
Looking forward to the 2009 season (but *not* racing against you!)
Hi Litlove–actually, the seat is a lot more comfortable than it looks!
SOC–My fancy chain tool was defective, though (off-center driving pin), so it screwed up my chain installation. I still had to have the shop do that part of the build.
Today.
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[ http://bicycle-hillclimb-machine.blogspot.com/ ]
In addition, I come to look.
Suh-weeet!
Hi Fendergal– I knew you, as a Cannonball rider yourself, would like this one!
Very nice rig with well thought out component package. That’s motivating enough to be on the bike in 15 degree weather! Go get ’em!
good bike!