FIRST RIDE: LOOK 496 TRI

Originally designed for the Athens Olympians, Look?s 496 Tri has been adapted for the road time triallist. Two versions of this bike are made: the Tri, and the TT, which has the more laid-back geometry preferred by Grand Tour riders.

For domestic riders, the steeper 76-degree seat tube is clearly the better option, as it allows a more aggressive and aerodynamic position.

Some 500g have been cut from the bike in its adaptation for the road but all of the aerodynamics have remained, including the striking ?offset? fork. Oversize tube sections give the Look a purposeful, aero-dynamic profile and the hand-laid monobloc construction ensures lasting integrity.

With Look?s oversize Ergo stem built into the fork it?s easy to make adjustment to the bar set-up ? a great system for the fussy rider.

It?s clear from the first pedal stroke that Look has targeted stiffness with the 496. It is worth noting that with a list weight of 1.6kg it?s not the lightest bike but then the resulting stiffness, in the right hands, could really make up for this, especially on dragstrip courses.

It?s also worth noting that Look makes three sizes in the 496: XS, S, and M. Despite being over six foot, the medium was borderline too long, so do check the geometry if you order one.

Cornering stability of the 496 was first rate and the relatively short wheelbase made sure the bike was nimble ? all of which adds up to a truly capable time trial machine.

LOOK 496 TRI

DistributorFishers Outdoor 01727 798345, www.lookcycles.com

Price£2,699

FrameLook Monobloc High Modulus carbon fibre

ForkLook Offset

Size rangeXS, S, M

GroupsetShimano Dura-Ace

AlterationsNone

Gear ratios53/39 with 11-23

WheelsMavic Ksyrium ES

TyresHutchinson Fusion

BarsEaston Attack TT

StemLook Ergo

SeatpostLook Tri

SaddleFizik Gobi

Size testedMedium

CW FIRST IMPRESSION: 9/10