Any SEVEN riders?? Help! Advice needed!

[Pinkryder]

HI!

I need some input before final decision!! I am very close to starting the whole Seven process (yeah!), but I am still undecided on ID8 vs. all Ti (Alaris or Axiom). I have read some threads here about comparing the two, but wanted to know more, if possible?!? :confused:

I have tested the Alaris. Rode it for 70+ mi over 3 days. Nice bike. Liked it. Thought it could be a bit stiffer and more responsive for my tastes, and was hoping for a bit more comfort. I know that the bike could be tuned to do these things (and obviously different components added), but don't know if it would be enough? Problem is, I do not have access to a demo ID8. Questions are...how much more comfortable can the ID8 be? More comfort over bumps? Or is it more comfort over long rides and in general? I know they can really tune it per my request, but is the difference in comfort (and it being a bit lighter) worth the extra expense? I have a lower back issue and would really need a comfortable ride, but don't want to sacrifice responsiveness if possible.

I guess if anyone had any more thoughts about the different bikes, all Ti or Ti/carbon mix, or more specific details about the ID8, I would greatly appreciate it!! :)

Thank you!!!!

[7rider]

Well, if you've searched the forum here, you have seen my posts, no doubt.
I don't know if I can add much more to what I have already said.
I have both an Axiom (stock) and ID8 (custom). Both are phenomenal bikes. The fit of my ID8 is, of course, a bit better, since it was built for me. As a result, I think the comfort of that bike over long rides (say, metric or full centuries) is a bit better. I have a bad neck, and the ID8 was built with that in mind...so that helps, too. My Axiom is also a bit softer vs. my ID8.
Honestly, given the magic Seven can work with customizing the ride of the bike, you can't go wrong with either bike. The carbon of the ID8 is supposed to help absorb the high-frequency vibrations on the road which, in theory, should help you on longer rides to stay fresher and more comfortable.
Does it do a better job vs. the Axiom? I don't know. I certainly couldn't complain about the ride of the Axiom over long rides.
Actually, just thinking about it now...I never rode an ID8 before ordering it. I don't regret it. One of the first rides I did with the bike was a 103 mile ride with 7500' of climbing. The ride was brutal, but the bike was great.
How's the shop you're working with? What's their take on all of this for you (who perhaps know you, your habits, your needs)?
Anyway...good luck. Let us know what you decide.

[Pinkryder]

Well, if you've searched the forum here, you have seen my posts, no doubt.
I don't know if I can add much more to what I have already said.
I have both an Axiom (stock) and ID8 (custom). Both are phenomenal bikes. The fit of my ID8 is, of course, a bit better, since it was built for me. As a result, I think the comfort of that bike over long rides (say, metric or full centuries) is a bit better. I have a bad neck, and the ID8 was built with that in mind...so that helps, too. My Axiom is also a bit softer vs. my ID8.
Honestly, given the magic Seven can work with customizing the ride of the bike, you can't go wrong with either bike. The carbon of the ID8 is supposed to help absorb the high-frequency vibrations on the road which, in theory, should help you on longer rides to stay fresher and more comfortable.
Does it do a better job vs. the Axiom? I don't know. I certainly couldn't complain about the ride of the Axiom over long rides.
Actually, just thinking about it now...I never rode an ID8 before ordering it. I don't regret it. One of the first rides I did with the bike was a 103 mile ride with 7500' of climbing. The ride was brutal, but the bike was great.
How's the shop you're working with? What's their take on all of this for you (who perhaps know you, your habits, your needs)?
Anyway...good luck. Let us know what you decide.

Thank you so much for your additional input! I really appreciate it. The idea of a custom bike is such a leap of faith for me, as I am definitely a "see it, touch it, try it first" kind of gal. At this point, as you said, it seems like I can't go wrong with either one. I do have a question for you...if you don't mind me asking? Do you happen to know how much "stiffer" on their 1-10 scale (or maybe the "responsiveness" scale) they made your ID8 for you, as compared to your stock Axiom? (assuming the Axiom is a signature size) You mentioned your Axiom was a little bit softer. I ask because I do know that I want my bike to be a bit more responsive and stiff than the bike that I tested, but I don't know how much more to ask for. Or whether to leave it up to them to decide?? Sorry if this sounds crazy, I know I am starting to overthink EVERY little detail at this point. I won't even get into the debate over which components to get :)

About the bike guy that I am working with, I am very happy with him so far, but it is a new relationship (not willing to do business with the shop in our town anymore, long story). He is sure that I will not be disappointed with the improved fit (nothing else fits me well at all), but isn't really steering me to one model over the other. It does complicate my situation a bit, as well as the fact that I am a relatively new rider. Luckily my DH (experienced rider) is able to help interpret my needs/wants (based on the little riding experience that I have) and help me out with this whole process. He wants me to go for an ID8. I just want to be sure that the extra $$ will really give me something more. I want this bike to be "the bike", and I don't want to have to do it again any time soon. Unless of course I win the lottery!

Thanks again for your input. I wish you continued seven happiness!! And hope to be there soon!!

[7rider]

I do have a question for you...if you don't mind me asking? Do you happen to know how much "stiffer" on their 1-10 scale (or maybe the "responsiveness" scale) they made your ID8 for you, as compared to your stock Axiom? (assuming the Axiom is a signature size) You mentioned your Axiom was a little bit softer. I ask because I do know that I want my bike to be a bit more responsive and stiff than the bike that I tested, but I don't know how much more to ask for. Or whether to leave it up to them to decide?? Sorry if this sounds crazy, I know I am starting to overthink EVERY little detail at this point. I won't even get into the debate over which components to get :)

My Axiom is a '98 or '99 frame (bought as NOS in '00 - I was told it's a '99, but I've seen paperwork that seems to indicate it's a '98), and the specs on the Signature Size of today are slightly different vs. the older specs.

I just found my Frame Spec Confirmation sheet (w/ mark-ups from my LBS after they went over Seven's recommendations vs. what worked for me). Handling was a 5; Drive Train Rigidity is an 8; Vertical compliance is a 2 (!); and Weight-to-performance is a 5. Comparing that to current signature specs, it looks like I was asking for the impossible: a uber-comfy ride and quick-off-the-dime performance. And I really think I got it! :cool:

Don't overthink it. Sometimes you have to take a deep breath and trust. Trust yourself. Trust your shop. Trust Seven. Remember...This is FUN!! :p

[Pinkryder]

My Axiom is a '98 or '99 frame (bought as NOS in '00 - I was told it's a '99, but I've seen paperwork that seems to indicate it's a '98), and the specs on the Signature Size of today are slightly different vs. the older specs.

I just found my Frame Spec Confirmation sheet (w/ mark-ups from my LBS after they went over Seven's recommendations vs. what worked for me). Handling was a 5; Drive Train Rigidity is an 8; Vertical compliance is a 2 (!); and Weight-to-performance is a 5. Comparing that to current signature specs, it looks like I was asking for the impossible: a uber-comfy ride and quick-off-the-dime performance. And I really think I got it! :cool:

Don't overthink it. Sometimes you have to take a deep breath and trust. Trust yourself. Trust your shop. Trust Seven. Remember...This is FUN!! :p

You Rock! Thank you for sharing your info (and digging it out so fast for that matter!) It gives me piece of mind to know that everything worked out for someone else with similar needs/demands.

And your weren't messin' around with that vertical compliance number!! I like it!! :)

[sheri]

Not sure if I'm too late posting. I got a custom Axiom in 2005. I love how Ti feels so lively, and I agree, having a bike that fits like a glove makes riding so much more fun! I'm on my bike 3 days a week. I absolutely love my bike and have no regrets about spending the money. Not one.

I have my specs too:

Handling - 5
Drive Train Rigidity - 8
Vertical Compliance - 2
Weight-to-performance - 7

[Pinkryder]

Thanks to you too sheri! So glad to hear that you love your bike too :)

I actually did decide to go for it!! (But hearing your story still helps!!) I was was measured, filled out the forms, etc at my bike shop last week, and just did my phone interview yesterday. I was shocked to hear that they would have the specs back to my shop in only about a week. I can't wait!!

As of this moment, I have chosen the ID8, although they assured me I could still change my mind if I needed to.

Will let you gals know how it goes...:)

[7rider]

Hooray!!! That's awesome! :D

[Velobambina]

Late to the party, but I love my Alaris!!! I'm saving up for another one...

You won't regret buying a 7.

[Blueberry]

VB - what's the next one to be??

CA

[sheri]

Yay! You will love it.

The only downside I found was that it totally spoiled me for buying other bikes. I just bought my first mountain bike. First one, and I still ended up with a custom Titus Racer X Ti. I kept thinking, "those off-the-shelf bikes will never be right for me"!

My Seven has me totally spoiled. I'm sure it will do the same for you. Happy riding!

[Velobambina]

VB - what's the next one to be??

CA

Another Alaris. But it's likely not going to be for at least another year or two.

[Flur]

Another Alaris. But it's likely not going to be for at least another year or two.

Can I ask why? I'm considering an Axiom or an Alaris, and I'm leaning that way in part because Ti lasts, and it could be a forever bike. What would make you get another of the same frame?

[Velobambina]

Because I like it.

[obie]

I have a Seven Axiom Steel and it's a super bike -
5 handling
8 drive train rigidity
3 vertical compliance
9 weight to performance

I wanted something that would be comfortable on long rides, but also sprint well. It does this beautifully!

My two quibbles:
-to be honest, I just don't love having such a fancy bike - it took me 2.5 years to save up for it (and it has lower-end wheels, a lot of free parts, etc) and it just feels a bit excessive to me. Yes, I have a weird shape (very short with long torso) but I bet if I'd tried long enough I might have found something. I feel a little self-conscious, because the rest of my life is strongly crunchy and un-consumerist - no car, all farmers markets and farm share and veggie garden, no tv, no fancy clothes.

-when I did the bike pickup, the store was rushed and my final fitting was inconclusive. It took a long time to fiddle around with little things like seat height, fore-aft, etc to get that "perfect" Seven fit. I'm still fiddling, to be honest! I trust that slowly I'll find the jackpot fit - I'm pretty close - but you sort of expect that a custom bike will be perfect from the get-go!

That said, the frame and its performance are pretty awesome.