Kinesis have been making extremely well regarded alloy frames for a long time now, with the T2 and TK3 training bikes both favourites among cyclists at all levels.

The Aithein steps things up a notch and is Kinesis’ alloy race weapon. The UK-based brand desribe the Aithein as ‘everything we have learned during over 12 years of alloy frame design and manufacture’. The result is 1,193g for a 56cm frame designed to be paired with their 330g carbon fork. In fact, Kinesis claim that the 59cm version weighs in at an impressive 1,243g.

There are a few especially smart features on the Aithein, including what Kinesis call the ‘anti gravity’ seat tube, a superplastic formed tube that adds stability to the frame, allowing the main tubes to be lightened and the overall weight lowered. However, the frame does come with a 14-stone rider weight limit.

Out on the road and the Aithein is a classy ride, best suited to fast and hard riding, with the low weight and stiffness of the frame offering plenty of reward. Read the full review.

Price: £649.99 (frameset only)
Website: Kinesis
UK distributor: Upgrade Bikes