Cyclocross season is just around the corner and with that, Racer Boy Ian needed a new ride since outgrowing his 44cm Redline Conquest Pro, that he raced last season. The Conquest Pro, a 2010 model, was bought used off a fellow junior teammate and worked well.
My original plan was to score a bigger 'cross frame and move everything over - since the Conquest Pro sports some nice SRAM Rival running gear. After checking his team deals, online offers, and local shop stock - wound up scoring a very nice deal on a new 2011 Redline Conquest from my pals who own Bicycles West, a chain of stores here in the Seattle area. Good folks, ring 'em if you're in the market for any bike goodies.
Ian's new ride for 'cross this year poses for photos. The fast growing 13 year old now riding a 52cm frame. Aluminum frame, carbon fork, decent components and wheelset.
Shimano 105 rear derailleur mounted to replaceable dropout.
FSA Vero crankset, a bit low spec with old school square tapered BB, but totally useable, plus correct 172.5 crank length. I might swap this out for a lighter, hollow axle crankset - maybe.
Kenda Small Block 8 tires - nice for dry courses. I dig 'em on my 29er.
Shimano Tiagra shifters. 9 speeds of Shimano smoothness.
The Conquest is one model below his previous Conquest Pro, so maybe a pound heavier. Still completely race ready and a nice bike, especially since it probably won't fit Ian next 'cross season. I'll put up his 44cm Conquest Pro up for sale soon, and that should cover the cost of the new 'cross bike - since we scored deals for both. Not bad, eh?
The new bike has been a 20+ mile road ride, some backyard barrier practice, and one official team 'cross practice/ride session. It works and fits Ian well. Only complaint is the taller gearing. I'll swap out the rear 25 cassette for a 28, or change the inner 36 tooth chainring for a 34. I'll also need to score some mud ready tires for the season. Otherwise, full steam ahead.
Race reports to follow...