FIRST RIDE: GTR CARBON PRO

GT will probably be best remembered in the road market as the bike supplier to the Lotto team of Andrei Tchmil in the late Nineties. Famed for the ?triple triangle?, it is back with a modest range that is aimed at a wide sphere of riders.

The GTR Carbon Pro is the opening salvo aimed at the growing sportive bike market. Found at the top of the range of six models, the Carbon Pro is one of two carbon bikes that sit above four aluminium models. Nicely equipped with all branded componentry, from the Shimano Ultegra groupset and 105 wheels to the Ritchey finishing kit, there is no cost cutting as far as component choice is concerned.

Targeted at the non-racer market, this bike was clearly more comfort than performance oriented. Sharp attacking up hills and out of corners was met with a subtle lag, which can be excused as race performance is neither promised or to be expected. Despite this, the GTR gave a solid feel that remained true both on high-speed descents and through corners.

The focus on comfort was especially evident when the road surface deteriorated, which is an important factor in a sportive bike. Overall, the ride was more than pleasing for a bike in the sub-£1,800 category.

At this price it will be hard to find a better equipped sportive bike. The weekend warrior or new sportive rider will find it a tough task to find a bike more suited to their needs.

GTR CARBON PRO

ManufacturerGT

DistributoHot Wheels International

Price £1,799.99

FrameGTR Carbon monocoque

ForkRitchey Carbon pro

Size range50-58cm

Weight8.1kg

GroupsetShimano Ultegra

AlterationsNone

Gear ratios50/34 with 11-25

WheelsShimano 105

TyresVittoria Rubino pro

BarsRitchey Logic Pro

StemRitchey Logic Pro

SeatpostRitchey Pro carbon

SaddleFizik Arione

Size tested58cm

CW FIRST IMPRESSION 8/10