Cube GTC Race
When I was looking to upgrade to a carbon frame bike from my current Giant Defy 2 2010, it really came down to the best spec for the money and Cube won hands down. The GTC Race, not just with it’s full carbon frame and a full Ultegra set up, but they look stunning as well, with their colour codes and frame shape. But when it came to finally making my decision, Cube’s were selling phenomenally well and had sold out before the season had started.
I resorted to looking at Giant’s range – I already own one and was really impressed with the bike. Giant have the best reputation for carbon frames, but at £3000 for the ultimate frame, and with it only spec’d with a 105 groupset. Although 105 is probably more than good enough for my riding level, I just kept looking back at what you get for the money from Cube.
So back to the drawing board… until one day, completely out of the blue one appeared at Tredz Cardiff. A Cube GTC Agree Race and more than that, it was a 56cm – which just happens to be my size. So there we have it, if that's not fate I don't know what is… so no more living off value beans on toast to fund my biking addiction.
"I've had my Cube GTC Race now for about 3 months and I love it very much"
The GTC Race has a full carbon frame with carbon forks and comes complete with a full Ultegra groupset. The GTC’s Fulcrum Racing 5 wheelset is great, and with wheels being one of the first upgrades most riders make, having a good pair means I can spend my cash on other things. The GTC’s high spec for just £1849.00 makes it one of the best value bikes around.
One thing I would have liked to see on a carbon bike is a carbon seat post, but I guess you can’t have everything. The GTC is really comfortable and compliant, plus the tapered head tube means it’s cornering is really confident. There is a little flex at the rear on the flats and small climbs, but it’s ride is fantastic and really cushions you from rough roads.
I use the Cube GTC for sportive rides and commuting – I couldn't ask anymore from it. I’ve slightly upgraded it with an FSA carbon seat, FSA carbon bars and stem – she deserved a bit of bling. Even with the additions to the bike, still comes under the £2000 mark and really does tick all the boxes; fast, lightweight (at 7.9kg), good looking and with a really high spec for under £1900.
About the Author
JT James has been a cyclist for over fifteen years and in that time he's raced off road in both the UK and Europe. He's a Cytech level 2 mechanic, qualified cycle coach, guide and has extensive cycle industry experience. JT rides both road and mountain although refuses to commute by bike because he lives so close to work. You'll also see his mug on most of our Tredz TV productions.
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