“Izoard is an attractively priced bike for entering carbon class“, reads the test summary. Editors especially liked the complete Shimano 105 groupset: “Many manufacturers choose brakes and/or cranks of cheaper price levels.“

Accordingly satisfactory was the verdict of the brakes’ performance: it was considered a reminder that rim brakes were still a very effective option for most riding situations despite the felt omnipresence of disc brakes.

STEVENS Izoard – which is named after the alpine pass that has been a Tour de France destination several times already – was made for ambitious riders which showed in its frame geometry: short wheelbase and chain stays as well as a stiff tapered head tube for more direct handling – or as editors put it: “You feel the road a little more than on a marathon racer.“ Nevertheless, testers felt comfortable on Izoard even on several-hour rides, even though they remarked that “the racey position is not for everyone.“

What probably would be for everyone, however, was the semi-compact gears with 52/36 teeth at the front and 11-23 at the rear. In combination with the stiff frame they provide an “effective transfer of power as well as good handling and grip even on demanding downhill passages and in narrow bends.“ “The 25 mm tires provide for good traction and don’t mind rough surfaces either“, testers enthuse.

In a nutshell: “All in all STEVENS created a convincing overall package for all athletes who are looking for a sporty ride (made of carbon) for less than 2,000 Euros.“

STEVENS Izoard specced with Citec wheels and Shimano 105 groupset is available in frame sizes 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60 and 62 centimeters at 1,799 Euros at STEVENS specialist dealers. Izoard Pro with Shimano Ultegra and DT Swiss R24 Spline wheels is available at 2,199 Euros.