Cruzbike S40--My Roundabout Pathway
After over 25,000 miles, I retired my Bacchetta CA2.0 and the journey for my (probably) last bike commenced. I obviously enjoyed the CA2.0, but I was intrigued by the concept of a FWD bike and the known benefits it affords. Honestly, had it not been for Cruzbike's generous return policy, I would not have pulled the trigger. But with that reassurance, I ordered up. I received the stock S40 early last summer. In short order, I was confident a FWD bike was very manageable. But after a full 100 day trial, I was left wondering how much better the stock bike could be with upgraded components. I was looking for more efficiency, a bit more speed. So back it went (in flawless condition out of respect for the opportunity to trial the bike).
After much research, and a great Black Friday deal, I actually bought the v20 frameset and set out to build my ultimate bike. While I did have concerns about the 20 degree incline, the included adjustable CF seat I thought would mitigate that issue. Sadly, that was not the case. I set up the bike in my basement, optimized the geometry as best I could, and quickly realized that on less than pristine roads the necessary head/neck support would transmit too much vibration to my head and so I deemed the v20 a nonstarter for my needs. (When someone said the v20 was for racing, I should have listened.). I salvaged all my components off the bike and, fortunately, was able to sell the frameset to a nice gentleman here on the forum at not too much of a loss given the as- new condition.
I quickly ordered the S40 frameset. I very much enjoyed the clean 1x11 drivetrain on the stock S40 and so I retained that configuration. I went with a Croder 145mm CF crank/Wolf Tooth 38t chainring, SRAM hollow pin chain coupled to a SRAM XX1 10-42 cassette. SRAM Force 1 rear derailleur, SRAM Force double tap brifter, compressionless brake housing to TRP Spyre brakes. Most importantly, I upgraded the wheelset to Vision Metrons/Continental GP5000 tires 700x32.
The build (my first other than the v20) went together without any issues. The only challenge was routing the rear brake cable through the frame. I either needed longer fingers or an extra half mm of space in the frame opening and it would have been much easier. (I did use a foam sleeve on the brake cable to eliminate an annoying tap I heard on the stock S40. This no doubt complicated things a bit as well--but it worked!)
After all of that long winded background, how do I like the bike? Well, in brief, I love it! While I took the long way to get here, I am very impressed indeed with what better components did for the S40. This bike is much more comfortable than the stock version thanks to the CF wheelset and excellent tires. Usually comfort comes with a speed penalty--but not here! This bike clearly has lower rolling resistance than the stock version. I am not into racing, but I do value efficiency and I feel like this bike delivers the goods for my needs in full measure. I also love the short CF cranks. I actually look forward to short, steep hills because this bike I can actually go into "attack mode" on those climbs unlike my prior recumbents. Lastly, I feel very confident on this bike, even when downtown in traffic. Visibility (mirrors are not optional equipment) is great and the frame geometry makes it easy to put a foot on the pavement at stops.
So, all in all, the S40 is a great bike design that is very worthy of upgraded components. You will not find a company that offers better customer support. Buy without hesitation!
