Creating a bike that matches our ethos and how we ride here at Pedalnorth isn’t easy. We didn’t want to take an ‘off the peg’ bike or an all too familiar branded frame. Instead, it we thought that we’d work closely with a small niche bike brand, and build something together that was different (like us), unique and high performance. Thankfully, at about the right time, RedChilli Bikes, based in the U.K. we’re really beginning to get a name for their design, frame geometry and performance, and so after a few online meetings with David, the idea was set.
As lead reviewer here at Pedalnorth, I’m often using my bike in reviews and images; and so, this was a bike that was going to be busy. I’d be racing too, and so yes, high performance had to be matched with style – welcome to the RedChilli WR1! And, in the colour option I chose, Chameleon, it really is a beautiful bike. Let’s talk about the bike and component choices.
Working alongside David from RedChilli, we decided to spec the bike in Shimano Ultegra, choosing a 11 speed compact mechanical groupset. It’s familiar for mechanics all around the world, easy to maintain and runs like a dream, with ultimate reliability. The 11 speed option would also benefit me on the hills. The crankset was a compact which with the 11/30 cassette was ideal for my cycling here in Transylvania. To keep the bike light and to match the high spec RedChilli WR1 frameset, I put Shimano Ultegra carbon pedals onto the bike too.
The seatpost and integrated handlebars were RedChilli high end race ready options, and we spent some time getting the bar width perfect. Too often people don’t think about this, and end up uncomfortable and with pain in the shoulders and back. It’s worth the time to think about bar width and stem length. I’m using a 100mm stem and bars with a 410mm hood to hood width. The frame itself is a 54, which again is just right and allows my body to sit comfortably within the saddle area. In terms of saddle, I’m using the Selle Italia Lady Boost TI316 Superflow, designed and conceived exclusively to adapt to the needs of the female riders. It has greater gel padding, combined with the Superflow technology, and is definitely worth taking the time to research, as you’ll be sitting here for some time.
The bars were finished off with Supacaz Oil Slick bar tape, which perfectly matches the RedChilli Chameleon paint colour. It really does look made for the frame and is a beautifully stylish look. I love it <3 . Thankfully, Elite helped out with their carbon Vico bottle cages, the choice for many worlds top tour teams, and so the bike was looking amazing and definitely light and amazing to look at. Getting wheels right is tricky and we wanted this to be a realistic and affordable build for our readers to be able to do themselves. Speaking with David, he suggested Gipiemme Techno 1.55 wheels, which are a growing brand from Italy that perform well and don’t break the bank.
Our friends at Vitamina C PR in Italy helped out with a set of Pirelli PZero Race tyres in 25mm, and this beautiful bike was complete.
In terms of the frameset, we’ll write more about this as I ride it. However, it’s high modulus carbon, giving me a stiffer and more efficient frame, which also responds better. The bottom bracket area is large and strong, helping with power transfer, and the head tube has a high diameter, again giving strength to the bike when racing. It’s a super light frame, but super strong. Now… that’s all the technical stuff about the bike – but here’s the emotional stuff. Yes, what do I actually think of it, and how does it feel initially.
The pandemic and several other issues had delayed collecting the bike. However, when it was finally arranged, coming to U.K. was a pleasure. I had a weekend in wonderful London, meeting some friends, visiting the main attractions and have of course the classic and very delicious fish and chips. After London, I met with Robert in Cambridge to collect the bike and eat some cake 🙂 . Seeing the RedChilli WR1 for the first time close up, I was really excited and I had barely slept the night before.
So, finally we meet after long time of waiting, and it impressed me from the first sight when I saw it. I couldn’t believe that it was made for me, with my measurements, and when I saw it, I had a really special feeling and a precious moment. I was like as a kid getting what you wished for at Christmas. I was very happy!!
The chameleon colour of the WR1 frame stands out, due to its unique combination of green, blue, purple and an ultra-shiny design, and it makes the bike different from the other usual bike brands and their often-standard colours. The design of the frame, its geometry, the thinking behind the various areas like the stays, the bottom bracket housing and head tube, it’s impeccable. The geometry of the frame is tighter for me than I am used to, which I like. It’s a delicate female design and typical for a woman’s specific form.
The first impression when I rode it was superb. It gave me the feeling of a more aero positioning for me, with more control and I felt more confident on the downhill and turns.
What I really like is that the handlebars are lower than the saddle and a really ergonomic and comfortable shape. The overall fit is perfect – like a glove! I’m sure that me and my RedChilli WR1 will get along very well! I’ll be writing regular blogs and articles about me and my RedChilli and our adventures, here on Pedalnorth.com, as we explore the roads of my home together, in the mountains of Transylvania.
I want to thank Robert (my editorial boss at Pedalnorth 🙂 ) and David at RedChilli for their work and generosity by making my dreambike come true!
There’ll be more from me and my RedChilli this year, as I use the bike as my first choice road bike for reviews, rides and races.
The great kit I’m wearing here is from the Italian Brand ROSTI – take a look 😉
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