As a cycling enthusiast, I’m often asked about my bike setup. So, in this piece, let’s dive into the details of my current ride, the Cannondale EVO Hi Mod Disc, and reflect on how my cycling journey has shaped my preferences in bike technology and components. This exploration, while personal, offers valuable insights when considering the broader world of cycling, including the increasingly popular concept of Collective Bikes.
From my early days riding Paolo Savoldelli’s CAAD5 back in 2000, to tackling 24-hour mountain bike races, and enduring long days in the mountains, my experiences have refined my understanding of what makes a bike perform well. I’ve learned firsthand the importance of each component and how they contribute to the overall riding experience – lessons that are surprisingly relevant when we think about designing and maintaining effective collective bike systems.
 – The heart of any bike, the frame is crucial for responsiveness and weight. For collective bikes, a durable and versatile frame geometry is essential to accommodate a range of riders and usage conditions.
Wheels: Mavic Cosmic Pro Carbon SL Disc UST – High-performance wheels like these offer aerodynamic advantages and reduced rotational weight. In the context of collective bikes, while top-tier carbon wheels might be less practical due to cost and potential damage, understanding the benefits of lighter, more efficient wheels is important for optimizing ride quality even with more robust, cost-effective alternatives.
Tyres: Mavic Yksion Pro UST (25c) – Tyre choice impacts comfort, grip, and rolling resistance. For collective bikes, puncture-resistant tyres with good all-weather performance are key to minimizing maintenance and ensuring rider safety. Width considerations are also important for stability and comfort across varied urban terrains.
Rotors: TRP Centrelock (140mm) – Disc brakes provide consistent stopping power in all conditions. For collective bikes, reliable braking is paramount for safety, especially in busy urban environments. The choice of rotor size and brake pad material can influence braking performance and maintenance needs in high-use scenarios.
Crank: InfoCrank Classic (172.5mm) & Chain Rings: Praxis Works (34/50t) & Bottom Bracket: Ceramic Speed – The drivetrain components determine pedaling efficiency. For collective bikes, robust and reliable cranksets, chainrings, and bottom brackets are necessary to withstand frequent use and varying rider strengths. Considerations for gear ratios should align with the intended use of the collective bikes, whether for flat urban commutes or hillier areas.
