The Velocity Squared and Stratus in the LE form are two entry level champions that don’t trade off performance or features for lower pricing. |
From this distance the Stratus LE is hard to distinguish from the standard Stratus. |
| With an MSRP of only $1,195.00,add $50 for the XL size, add $35 if you want the new 3-way Chopper bars*, the Stratus LE simply rocks. You get the same time tested frame, seat fork, and bars, so the core of the bike is exactly the same as the higher priced model. Components are the main area of savings. In cycling you can pay a lot for brands, lack of grams, and performance enhancement. |
| * 2006 Stratus LE will have 3-Way Chopper bars standard with an MSRP of $1,230.00. |
Tektro brakes and levers are smooth and nicely finished, complementing the SRAM 5.0 shifters. |
The component lineup on the Stratus LE is solid hard working equipment that I would trust touring, commuting and general riding. Tektro levers and brakes do the stopping duty, with plenty of power and do so smoothly. SRAM 5.0 shifters control a SRAM 3.0 rear derailleur and Micro-Shifts’ very excellent clone of the Shimanos 105 derailleur does front chain swapping. |
At the rear a SRAM 3.0 does the business of shifting without hesitation or misses. |
The Truvativ Elita 52/42/30 Crankset runs true and has a tough nature. These cranks can take lots of abuse, as demonstrated when tested on the Dynamik on off road trails, and are remarkably attractive. |
Shimano Parallax hubs center up the Alex DA16 rims for a set of true and smooth rolling wheels, mounted with the venerable 1.5 Primo Comet tires. |
| The entire package is priced at only $195 over a $1000, but savvy consumers will note the extra bucks are well worth it. The ride is all classic Stratus, smooth, responsive and day long comfort. As mentioned there is no spec down of the seat or frame, so it looks like a Stratus, rides like a Stratus, so it must be a Stratus…only your pocket book has to know. |
Fast, light, and sleek doesn’t always have to break the bank. |
| At the recent Bent Rider Rally the Formula LE was well received. Whenever I mentioned the price the reaction varied from disbelief to “I think I just found my second bent". Because of the Formula's stunning looks and reputation as a fast bike, most expected an above 2K price. The bike simply looks, feels, and rides like the real thing. No doubt it is the real thing, but getting used to a nice price, well that is something most are happy to do. |
Braking and shifting are smooth and solid with Tektro brakes and SRAM X-7 shifters. |
| At $1550 for the standard size (add $50 for XL models) the Formula is a steal. Decked in those same smooth and powerful Tektro brakes the Stratus LE runs. The bike holds its own against the discerning buyer with SRAM X-7 shifters, rear derailleur, and Micro-Shift front derailleur. |
The SRAM X-7 is a good match for the Formula LE, providing prompt, smooth shifting. |
| Rolling on 1.5 Primo Comets, Alex DA 16 rims, and Shimano Deore hubs, the ride is all Formula. The LE version weighs in at 29 pounds, with the original Formula at 27.3. The bike would be 1.4 pounds less if you equipped with the featherweight cushion and carbon pan, both viable aftermarket options that are available through dealers or Shoprans. |
| Again the ride is not compromised by the lower price; a Formula LE is still the fast climbing, and high speed cruiser people have come to know. |
Only a subtle “LE” designates the spec level of these fine bikes. |
| Both bikes have the fit and finish of their big brothers, and are distinguished by only an ‘LE’ decal by the name. With such a strong heritage and great pricing the bikes will be in demand. That warms our hearts for the fact that it shows entry level bents can be a bike you can ride for years, and have a frame you can tweak up to a hotter ride as needed or afforded. |
| Both bikes feature our lifetime warranty and 275-pound rider weight limits. Many dealers are stocking the bikes. Check on our website for a dealer near you. If you are not near a stocking RANS dealer, let us know your preferred bike shop, we can arrangement for shipment. It is all about access, and we are happy to do it. Here is to hoping for a great fall riding season, and until next month stay into the ride and ride safe! |
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