Dorset-based Zerofour dropped off an Evolution audax test bike yesterday, and before we get it all dirty testing it, here’s a quick shufty.

Priced at £899, the Evolution uses a 3AL/2.5V titanium frame with a CNC machined head tube, bottom bracket shell and dropouts, and in the flesh looks to be well built and nicely finished. It’s extraordinary to think just how prevalent titanium has become as a frame material choice, and the level of craftsmanship here is top-notch.

A customer would enjoy a top level of service throughout the entire process of buying one of Zerofour’s bikes, being sized up and fitted during a 2-hour fitting session. The bespoke service would continue to how the frame would look, down to the choice of decals, and just what bits would be hung on the frame.

For this test, to give us an idea of how the bike rides, Zerofour have supplied a 56cm stock frame with a generous spec, comprising a Shimano Ultegra SL groupset, Easton EA70 wheels and bars, post and stem and Continental tyres. Oh, and set of ‘guards.

We’ll let you know how we get on in 2009…

Find out more at www.zerofourbikes.co.uk