Condor Fratello

Kinesis Racelight T

Enigma Etape

Firstly, these three bikes have been designed for Audax and touring rides; their comfort and reliability are key factors when you might be covering several hundred kilometres a day, possibly repeatedly for several days. Buy one and, come the spring, you’ll still have a nice, lightweight bike for everyday use.

Back to riding through the winter (you are still riding aren’t you?), which puts a lot more wear and tear on a bike, what with all that rain, salt, mud, grit and road debris all conspiring to wreak havoc on your pride and joy.[And falling off on ice – ed.]

If you add up the number of months your bike will be subjected to such abuse, you’ll realise that a second bike can make a good investment. Many riders will opt to put an older bike, possible one that’s seen a few summers already, to work for winter riding, but there’s another option.

These three machines may be designed for touring, but they are as effective for winter riding. The main differences over a ‘road bike’ are the mounts that make mudguard and rack fitting possible, wider tougher tyres, and a relaxed geometry for more stable handling.

For the purposes of this test, we’re concentrating on their merits for lots of winter riding, training and everyday riding to work – an area where mudguards suddenly make a whole lot of sense. These bikes represent three different price points, though all can be built to different price. The bikes are all British designed too.

The Kinesis Racelight T has been an RCUK favourite in the past, and the latest model sees this continuing. The British arm of one of the world’s biggest frame builders has managed to combine the latest technology in a package that is extremely well priced, rides well and looks good to boot.

The Enigma Etape is the most expensive bike here, but you are getting a top quality titanium frame with a custom-design option for a little more. The Etape marks a serious investment, but anyone taking the plunge will be rewarded with a superbly capable bike that is both comfortable and rewarding to ride. A real treat.

However, combining cracking good value for money, a lovely frame and a perfect balance of comfort and responsiveness, the RCUK Recommended award has to go to the Condor Fratello. It’s remarkably enjoyable to ride, won’t break the bank and looks great.

Overall rating

Condor 10/10 – read full review

Kinesis 9/10 – read full review

Enigma 9/10 – read full review