Enigma Elite HSS ST review

We test the beautiful steel Enigma Elite HSS ST

Cycling Weekly Verdict

Thankfully there is much more to buying a bike than getting out a spreadsheet and finding the lightest/stiffest/most aerodynamic machine you can buy for your money, which is why we still get to see stunning bikes such as the Enigma Elite HSS ST. This is a bike that sits right on the line between form and function. The frame really is a thing of beauty, with a paintjob that makes it look bang up to date without looking out of place on a material that has been used to make bikes for well over a century. It’s also one of the most fun bikes I’ve ever had the pleasure of riding. The 8.08kg weight means it’s never going to be the most agile climber, but you never get the impression that you’re having to lumber up steep gradients, while the excellent handling and smooth ride quality allows you to attack descents and nip along dodgy lanes without feeling like you’re being bounced all over the road. And the best thing is that you can buy this bike safe in the knowledge that you’ll still be having the same amount of fun in 10 years’ time

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Beautiful frame

  • +

    British made

  • +

    Great fun to ride

  • +

    Comfortable on British roads

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    A little pricey

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

We have a lot of good-looking bikes come through the doors here at Cycling Weekly and it can take something a little bit different to really catch the attention of the office.

Something, for example, like Enigma Elite HSS ST.

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Henry Robertshaw began his time at Cycling Weekly working with the tech team, writing reviews, buying guides and appearing in videos advising on how to dress for the seasons. He later moved over to the news team, where his work focused on the professional peloton as well as legislation and provision for cycling. He's since moved his career in a new direction, with a role at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.