R.A.D REVIEW: La Velocita Test The Grove R.A.D Apex
Adelaide based James Raison is La Velocita's tech guru and he knows a whole lot about gravel riding. Not easily convinced? Check out his youtube channel Ride Adelaide.
We sent James the Grove R.A.D Apex model in 700C Gravel mode as well as a set of Hunt 650B Adventure Carbon Disc wheels set up as Gravel Plus with the 650Bx48 Panaracer GravelKing SK tyres.
He covered a lot in this review, starting from the packaging and build quality through to a detailed spec critique and revelation of the ride feel.
We're really impressed with this review as James has managed to clearly articulate the ride qualities that we strived for and succinctly explained how it is so.
"The bike unsurprisingly shines along gravel roads where it has the liveliness of a road bike but with the added grip of gravel tyres. It feels poised but always ready for a quick direction change or hop over ruts and potholes."
It's evident James gave it a really good razzing; he found the bike's limits of traction - all part of the fun!
"There’s a point where there’s too much gravel for the tyres to grip at speed and you end up skating over the top. In these moments you’re reminded to respect the sharp steering and short rear-end of the bike as it’s easy to get unintentional slides going. These aren’t criticisms as such, just a reminder of where the comfortable edge of the usable range are."
Before he wrapped up the review he shared a few gripes - but you'll have to click through to read those.
"Grove’s entry level RAD is fantastic realisation of its purpose. It’s a riot to ride on everything from sealed roads, to gravel, and along the trails. The spec is also one of the most complete I’ve seen. Every part is well-chosen."
Check out the full review!
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