Seven ID8 vs. Axiom SG

[SadieKate]

jobob, I'll tell him you approve.

This is the steel version of the Elium though I think it's called something else now.

[MM_QFC!]

mmmmmmmm, gorgeous!

[Alex]

Thanks, everybody! I went back to the LBS and rode the Axiom again. I had the ID8 out before work with morning. It seemed to be a case of love the one you're with. On the ID8, I was thinking, "Oh, this climbs so well!" On the Axiom, it was, "Oh, how buttery smooth!" The LBS owner then told me that the shop had a version of the Elium that they designed (a cross between the SG and the Race) that I might like. He suggested I take out the Elium Race. He explained that the LBS version of the Elium would climb like the Race and be lighter than the ID8 and the Axiom, but that it would be more comfortable over long rides than the Race. The LBS version is not in Seven's catalog.

So, I took out the Elium and, wow, that bike just sung to me. Out of the parking lot and up a hill and I knew it was the one. It accelerates so well! And it's so light! And, if something happens to the carbon, it can be fixed (unlike my poor Felt, which will be relegated to the status of trainer bike). The fit information, etc., has been completed and we should get Seven's recommendation back next week. From start to finish, it should be 3 to 4 weeks before the new frame arrives. I went with unpainted Ti with the white, red, and black decal. We're going to transfer most of my Felt's components over to the Elium and then I'll use a variety of stuff we have around the house to equip the Felt for the trainer.

DH has been the worst (or best?) enabler through this whole process. He really didn't want something to happen to me while out riding the Felt, which I understand, but he went above and beyond by saying things like, "You love to bike. You really should get the perfect one for you" and "titanium will last forever" etc. etc. etc. When I texted him from the shop about the Elium, he sent back, "If it's better, you should get it."

Alex

P.S. to Sadie Kate: Willie's wheels sure look familiar!

[7rider]

Oooooo....Congratulations!!!
An Elium...how awesome.
I just got the news of your delightful dilemma today from MM_QFC.
You absolutely cannot go wrong with any Seven. And if the Elium sang to you, than by all means...that is the one to get.
As DivingBiker noted, I have a custom ID8 and a stock Axiom. My thoughts on the 2 are pretty much in line with what you felt. I often say my Axiom feels like silk on the road. Soooo smoooooth.
I built my ID8 a bit stiffer than the Axiom, so the ride is very different, but both exceedingly comfortable on the road. I know you will be so happy with your new bike. And, of course, we all will want to see pictures when it's done!
Here's mine (page 2 has the pix). http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showt...t=17897&page=2

[dachshund]

That's exciting! Congratulations!
Wow, that was fast. It took me a week just to decide on a color.

I'm about to order an Alaris frame from Robinson Wheel Works. I've been staring at pictures of Sevens, and the carbon is really nice looking. I've had moments of thinking this is a ridiculous thing to do, but my partner keeps reminding me that this hobby makes me happy, and I should get what I want. Yay!

Speaking of wheels, I can't tell from the picture above - what are those? I'm now researching wheels. Do you all recommend anything in particular? Mavic Aksium seems to be a standard, but I have to admit I haven't read much about this part of the puzzle.

[SadieKate]

Bubba's wheels are drop dead gorgeous White Industries hubs (available in silver or black) on Velocity Aerohead rims with Sapim spokes. They were built by John Ackley of BFWG and now co-owner of Paradigm Cycles in San Anselmo. He used to be the partner builder for White Industries.

I've had a couple of sets of wheels built by him, as have the Bobs, all using WI hubs. IndySteel has a pair built by somone else but using the same components.

Custom built wheels will let you get just the ride quality you want.

[Alex]

I have wheels built by John, too. They are fabulous -- fast, comfortable, beautiful, and light. My Felt came with Aksium Race wheels. The Aksiums are okay. I use them for winter riding.

As for how quickly I made the decision on the frame, well, there was really no time to waste. With the frame issue on my Felt, and the training I am doing for LOTOJA, I just can't be without a road bike for very long!

I dithered for far, far longer on the Power Tap. John is about to build me another rear wheel with a PT hub. His customer service is excellent and he has gone the extra mile to make sure that I will get the new wheel as quickly as humanly possible.

Alex