$452.51

The Wilier Izoard XP 105 Bike is a dedicated racer that offers a classic ride. The platform, the Izoard XP frameset is a proven performer: it was honored as Gear of the Year by Outside Magazine in 2009. That it isn't the newest design out of Trieste means that the investment in research and development have long been paid off, and the bike is priced as a steal. 

What stood out in 2009 holds true today. The monocoque design is the highlight. It's stiff while still having enough give to provide comfort. The geometry is racy, steering with accuracy on tight turns, without needing too much attention to ride in a straight line. They actually upgraded the bike with a new outer layer of unidirectional carbon-fiber to provide a feel that is more 2014 while still retaining the pleasure that the original version provided. New, too, is shaping added to the fork. It improves steering without adding weight.

In keeping with the mindset that the bike is a steal is the component build. Wilier mixes Shimano 105 shifting elements with FSA cranks, brakes, and cockpit. so that you not only have precise shifting, but light, no-nonsense parts which will happily put on the miles with you. Shimano 105, like Ultegra, has benefited from the improvements in Dura-Ace. The shifting is smooth, reliable, fast, without the finish or ostentation of its fancier siblings. FSA has been around for years thanks to their ability to offer greater value in componentry. Their Gossamer PRO cranks cost less and are lighter than similar level cranks from the big brands.

The bike is finished with a similarly no-nonsense wheelset. Shimano's WHR-501. It's the kind of wheel you can ride and ride and ride until you see the need for a serious set of racing hoops.

The Wilier Izoard XP 105 Bike is Wilier's baseline, an amazing starting point that shows Wilier bats well across their spectrum.