Fondriest have expanded their range for model year 2014 with the introduction of the TF4.

The new frame is an ‘entry-level’ addition to the Italian firm’s TF range, sitting below the TF Zero, TF Team, TF2 and TF3. The TF4 will be available as a frameset (with direct mount Tektro brakes included) for £1,299, or in a range of 19 builds from Shimano 105 to Dura-Ace (prices to be confirmed).

The TF4 shares many of the features found on the TF2 and TF3, which both impressed when reviewed on RoadCyclingUK, including the curved toptube, aggressive boxy downtube and the reverse sweep of the Reflex fork, which has been designed to offer precise, stable handling.

The fork isn’t identical, however, as it has been adapted to accept a direct mount, dual pivot brake in order, Fondriest say, to harness the additional stopping power offered by such a unit. The corresponding direct mount rear brake has been mounted to the chainstays, behind the bottom bracket. The machine we saw at Eurobike was equipped with the latest 11-speed iteration of Shimano’s Ultegra groupset, which comes with the option of direct mount brakes.

Fondriest have also switched from the aero-inspired integrated seatpost of the TF2 and TF3, to a conventional round 27.2mm post. That’s no bad thing in our eyes, making the TF4 compatible with a range of aftermarket posts, rather than just Fondriest’s proprietary option.

The TF4’s seatstay/seattube junction is also a marked departure from that of the TF2 and TF3, with the seatstays effectively wrapping themselves around the seattube, leaving a pronounced bulge, rather than flowing into the toptube. Fondriest tell us the new design is purely aesthetic.

The Fondriest TF4 will be on display at this month’s Cycle Show (September 27-29). Book discounted tickets by using the code RCUK at www.cycleshow.co.uk/book

Website: Fondriest
UK distributor: Impact Cycle Trading