Ellsworth Carbon Evolve 2013
Well another race season is looming and I am really excited as this year I have a new race bike – the Ellsworth Carbon Evolve and it is stunning.
This must be the best looking bike Ellsworth have produced, with its sleek lines and etched writing in the frame which really does make it stand out.
So what build do you ask? Well I used most of the parts off my previous race bike and upgraded the wheels and forks, so here is current spec:
- SRAM XX cranks with 39-28 rings
- SRAM XX shifters and rear mech
- Shimano XTR front mech
- Shimano XT pedals
- Hope X2 brakes
- Cane Creek headset
- Easton Haven carbon low rise bars
- ESI grips
- Specialised carbon seat post with a Phenom saddle
- Fox Float Kashima forks
- Fox Float CDT Kashima rear shock 120mm
- Specialized Roval Control SL carbon 29er wheelset with Specialized fast trak tyres
I was a little worried about it being a longer travel bike, especially as I race endurance and XC but having now ridden this for the last 2 weeks I definitely have no worries but do have a huge grin on my face as this bike is really fast. It climbs extremely well, I liken it to a goat that also descends like a demon (if I let it ha ha!). I was really surprised at how fast the pickup speed is especially for a 29er, I would almost say it is nearly as good as the 26er for response. A very awesome bike to say the least.
I must say a huge thank you to the guys at Freeborn as the frame only arrived 5 days before I was departing for Cape Town and they managed to get it all built up for me – you guys ROCK!
I have my first race on 15 to 17 Feb, it’s a 3 day MTB race in the Ceres Valley so whilst I may not be in full race fitness shape I am really looking forward to this one to help brush off the cobwebs.
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Markymark says:
Tasty set-up Amanda! What’s the weight?
A lot of my favourite kit on there – esp. the Tech X2’s and the 39/28 double – although i’m running 38/26 XTR upfront and the 26 is possibly a bit too low with a 36-11T cassette. SRAM meet Shimano half way between their 40 and 38 large ring double options which seems to be nicely geared with a 34-11T.
Hope NZ/SA has dried your ongoing sinuses up and helped your race fitness.
See you in the Surrey Hills soon…
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Posted on February 13, 2013 at 6:28 pm
ajkiwi says:
Hey Mark
the weight is 10.8kg and reckon I can get it down a bit but actually really happy with it as is. I though the 39/28 would be a bit hard on the hills but actually its not bad and I seem to be strong enough now to push the 28 up the steep hills altohg will let you know after this weekends 3 day race I might change my mind.
Sout Africa is really dry been 38 to 40 degrees and the trails are fast and very rockey here. looking forward to coming back and riding with you guys again.
If you get a chance to ride the Carbon Evolve you must it is a awesome bike and i have 3 guys here in SA that want to buy it off me.
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Posted on February 13, 2013 at 7:08 pm
ajkiwi says:
Hey Mark
The weight is 10.8kg and reckon I can get it down a bit but actually really happy with it as is. I thought the 39/28 would be a bit hard on the hills but actually its not bad and I seem to be strong enough now to push the 28 up the steep hills although will let you know after this weekends 3 day race I might change my mind.
South Africa is really dry been 38 to 40 degrees and the trails are fast and very rockey here. looking forward to coming back and riding with you guys again.
If you get a chance to ride the Carbon Evolve you must it is a awesome bike and I have 3 guys here in SA that want to buy it off me.
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Posted on February 13, 2013 at 7:09 pm
Dandy says:
Impressed with the 39/28 gearing. Opted for a wimpier 36/24 ( SRAM X0) for my new waggon wheeler. Still feels fast though, but it weighs 13kg incl dropper post, Stans Arch rims and mud tyres 😉
Was tempted by the carbon framed Tall Boy, but saved £1500 and went for their Superlight 29er alu frame.
Good luck with the race
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Posted on February 15, 2013 at 9:52 pm
JonH says:
Nice bike…good luck with the race!
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Posted on February 16, 2013 at 3:41 pm