Which bike to try?

Hi all,

Im currently riding a Dolan Precursa Track Bike 56cm.

Im running Shimano 600 Cranks and Chainset, with EAI cog. Carbon forks and seat post. Shimano Dura Ace Hubs with Campag Omega V rims.

Im selling the frame, as its a touch too small and am currently test riding as many bikes as possible.

Ive ridden a couple of charge bikes today, which were interesting to ride. Very comfy, but steering felt a little sluggish and the frames are incredibly heavy. I have been to Evans so far and plan to go to Cycle Surgery tomorrow.

Are there any other shops i should visit like BLB and 14 Bike Co? Id like to test as many different bikes as possible to build up a better knowledge, rather then looking at stats and figures.

Both that you mention are well worth a visit. Something custom and lovely from 14 would obviously fit the bill. OTP-wise, try a Fuji Track if you can find one - cheaper than a Charge and feels a lot racier, albeit the bits attached to it aren't as good.

Cool, will have a look at BLB tomorrow. When i popped in last time they had plenty of frames hanging up, but i didnt see many built up bikes, do they actually have fully built bikes to trial?

There are a few built up ones on your way through to the back yard (between the counter and the back yard). Not sure what sizes though.

Not sure where you're based but Putney Cycles usually have a few built up Bob Jacksons to try out.

^ The peeps there are really helpful too.

i was in both putney cycles shops yesterday and unfortunately i spotted that they did not have any bob jacksons in... but +1 they are indeed very helpful

The Dolan Pre-Cursa is a pretty good frame for the price (as long as it fits !). I'd avoid the 4130 Cro-Mo frames as they'll be a bit of downgrade, either go for another aluminium frame if you liked the feel of your old frame or try a Reynolds or Colombus Steel frame for a bit more comfort.

From what ive gathered from the frames ive tried (fixed and geared) is that i really do prefer a light frame. The charge frame felt comfy, but really laboured compared to my dolan and other aluminium and carbon frames ive owned.

I did really like the chainset/crank feel compared to what i have now, which was a bit of a shock. I can only gather that my current bike isnt quite running 100% but this will change shortly anyway.