Cycling Tips' Tech Editor and self-confessed tool hoarder, David Rome, put the Grove R.A.D Force LTD through its paces for three months before dropping an incredibly insightful review here.
"HIGHS: Dialled geometry that’s fast and fun; generous tyre clearance without silly components; quality build kits; boxing and build quality."
After introducing Grove Bike Co's history with Dave Musgrove's riding, engineering and design experience, Rome then delves into the intricate details of the R.A.D's design, substantiating his conclusions through insights from the trails.
"Remember how I said the R.A.D reminded me of the Cannondale SuperX SE? That’s a compliment, and a big one at that. I loved the quick and lively handling of the Cannondale that remained poised when things got a little hairy – something the Grove mimicks closely."
Rome chose to test the R.A.D with the 700C Road Alloy wheelset and the 650B Gravel Plus Hunt 650B wheelset.
"It’s an extremely versatile drop-bar bike, and one that is easily transformed with a swap of wheels or even tyres. There is a compromise in that, and I felt far happier rolling along the pavement with the 700x32c rubber than I did dragging along the 650B knobby treads on smooth surfaces. Likewise, the 650B mountain bike rubber offers clear benefits to control and ride comfort when the ground becomes unkempt."
We are stoked to have a renowned website like Cycling Tips review our bike and test it alongside the best bikes from the big brands.
"The Grove R.A.D is an impressively well-thought-out bike. Perhaps most impressive is the clear attention given to the smallest of details that even the largest companies sometimes overlook – all from a small start-up bike company on its introductory product."