This week sees the official press launch of the new 2011 road bike range from Chris Boardman. The darling of many a cycle to work rider, Boardman has established his range as a good value to money proposition in the sub £1000 category.
However, he's clearly seen an opportunity to move up the range with the introduction of two new models in the Elite range - the Road Pro AiR and the SLR. Makes sense, as there is a huge market around the £2,000 price category, with Specialized and many of the Italian brands clearing up.
Provional reviews that I've spotted about the Road Pro Air indicate an out and out race bike, with internal cable routing, flattened downtube and stiff frame. Initial reviews suggest an Ultegra groupset, Mavic Ksyrium Equipe wheels and the rest of the componentry being Boardman, finished off with a Fizik Arione saddle.
Pre-launch info suggests a £1799 price for the Road Pro Air, which will put it firmly in the category as a serious contender. Boardman has built a really solid brand with his existing 2010 range, he'll still get the usual grumbles about Halfords service and set-up, however this has to be balanced with the value of the bike, pound for pound. Bikes are expected to be in-store in the next few weeks.
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