Boardman AiR/TT 9.2

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As a rider, Chris Boardman was synonymous with beating the clock at dizzying speed aboard industry-leading bikes, so it’s not too much of a surprise that the Boardman AiR/TT 9.2 is a fast machine. What is a bit of a surprise is just how good an all-rounder it is – easy to handle, comfy and a whippet up climbs.

The AiR/TT 9.2 sits between the Shimano-105 equipped 9.0 and the Ultegra Di2-specced 9.4 in the Boardman TT bike range (there's also a frame only 9.8). You get a full Ultegra mechanical group, hardy Shimano RS31 wheels, Vision bars and an ISM Adamo saddle. All that is specced around a carbon frame that loses nothing in terms of lay-up, quality or weight compared to more expensive models in the range.

• Highs: Fast, stiff, easy to handle, climbs well
• Lows: Fiddly brakes, limited cockpit adjustment with stock bars
• Buy if: You want a fast TT / tri bike based around a fantastic frame

In the world of TT bikes, compromises have to be made. Weight, comfort, stiffness, control and aerodynamics are all put into the mix and the resulting machines can vary drastically.

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TT bikes are designed for speed and the Boardman certainly doesn’t disappoint in this department. From the first few pedal strokes, it’s clear just how stiff the frame is. The speed at which the bike turns a light canter into a full-on gallop is instantly impressive – give it a whiff of power and it really screams along.

Drop onto the extensions and things become even more satisfying thanks to the bike’s ability to hold speed with minimal effort. What’s even more bewildering is that it feels so damn fast with Shimano’s dependable, but weighty, RS31 alloy training wheels. Slap a pair of deep-section rollers in and it really flies.

That sensation of speed doesn’t falter when the road turns upwards either. In fact, the 9.2’s biggest and most pleasant surprise is that in building such a solid, stiff base – a broad BB30 bottom bracket and muscular boxy chainstays – Boardman has also crafted that that most rare of creations: an aero machine that climbs superbly.

You can read more at BikeRadar.com

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