Bigborb
12/26/2012 4:27:47 PM
More than 1 year

Refined perfection .. PARLEE Z-1
Pros: Simply one of the finest bikes in my stable.. I also have a Z3 and a Z4, which share ride qualities, but the Z-1 is more refined, subtle, and functionally more advanced. Simple tubes, no swooshy, curvy, neonic paintjobs. Straight forward lugged carbon that works flawlessly to produce a refined ride that is stable and yet jumps when you give it gas. I can't begin to compare with my favourite steel or titanium bikes (different creatures altogether), but it definitely tops my list of carbon bikes(I have many), that's why I bought 3 of them. Parlee was one of the first and remains one of the few to offer 'millimetric custom' fitting in a carbon bike due to the building process, and has been seen under the butts of some famous pro riders, in preference to their own sponsored frames. Lightness is not a big issue in my mind, but these are terrifically light (1175gr), and the Z4 and Z5 are even a lot lighter. I suppose that may make a difference if you happen to be chasing Carlos Sastre up Alpe d'Huez, but I am not likey to be in that situation.. I love the Z-1.. prefer it over the Z4. Z3 is my 'travel bike due to the 'compact' buld, but I truly prefer riding horizontal TT frames.
Cons: Can't think of any, unless 'flash' is a factor for you. You can always have it painted fancy colors, but if you want a curvy, molded work of art, get a Pinarello. It won't be a better bike, and you'll never know if it's a Chinese clone that may fall apart on you next time downhill..
Comments: As a 'desert island' pick this rivals my Pegorettis. Can't decide, and thankfully, I don't need to.