Lapierre Audacio 700 2012 Review
The Audacio 700 is an aluminium framed racer but bucks the trend by offering an impressively smooth and comfortable ride and good hill climb performance.
By looking at the £1,500+ price tag (correct at time of writing) you may be surprised to see that Lapierre have decided on an aluminium frame for the Audacio when most bikes around this price usually go for carbon. The double-butted aluminium frame surprised us though and offered a very smooth ride.
The Audacio 700 also offered a very comfortable ride, even after a few hours in the saddle. Lapierre based the geometry of the Audacio on the Xelius but crucially lengthened the rear triangle through the chainstays, resulting in a longer wheelbase. The headtube was also raised 5mm and the top tube shortened by 5mm, resulting in a more upright riding position
and easing strain on the lower back.
Vibration has also been kept to a minimum by the slim stays, while the excellent carbon fork meant our hands were tingle free after a fairly long ride. The bike also handled very impressively and, while not being as responsive as some of the top racers, it coped with bumps and corners very well.
The comfort factor also extends to the saddle. Lapierre decided on a Selle Italia X1 which sports a slim racing contour but has ample cushioning for long rides. The wheelset features Mavicʼs mid-range 23mm Aksion tyres. They donʼt offer the kind of performance found in the elite models but are still an impressive set of tyres with excellent grip.
Shimano Ultegra 105 gears have been fitted on the front and, combined with a Tiagra cassette on the back, the bike also offers an excellent range of gears that should satisfy riders of all levels and experience.
The Lapierre Audacio 700 is a bike that excels during long rides. Itʼs built for comfort and, while the lack of a carbon frame might put off some, the quality of the components and surprisingly smooth ride more than make up for it.
Lapierre Audacio 700
Rating by Adam Samuel: stars ££
Written by: Quatos