When you think of Kinesis, you think of high quality aluminium frames. But that is changing, and with the release of the all-carbon KR801, Kinesis is making it clear it doesn’t intend to miss out on the demand for carbon.

We first spotted the KR810 at the 2006 Cycle Show. It was one of the few head turners on display, and we’ve had to wait quite a while until we could actually get one between our legs. But the wait was worth it.

The monocoque frame made from 3K carbon twill, with semi-compact geometry (the smaller frames have a greater sloping top tube than larger frames for a better fit), weighs a claimed sub-kilo (for a 47cm frame). Kinesis have sought to tune the build in an attempt to achieve the magical balance between stiffness, compliance and responsiveness, and the ‘Kbox’ bottom bracket and ‘A-Frame’ seat stays are examples of this.

Our KR810 is rolling on the new Reynolds KOM wheelset, which at just 1,063g a pair is knocking on Lightweight territory. A high-modulus 23mm carbon tubular rim is laced with 20/24 spokes and runs on DT Swiss 240S hubs. They’re £1,349.00 for a set. Our first spin on them yesterday revealed they’re startlingly light and easy to get up to speed. The rest of the bike is kitted out with Shimano Dura-Ace and lots of Oval Concepts finishing kit.

Price for the frame (including forks) is a reasonable £999.99.

Visit www.kinesisbikes.co.uk for more info.