WHAT'S THE STORY BEHIND IT?
New for 2019, Boardman reckons its URB 8.8 is sleek (it is), minimally branded (ditto) and ‘can take on anything the city can throw at it’ (it can). The aluminium frame has dropped seatstays, a full raft of fixtures and fittings, an up-to-date SRAM 1X drivetrain, hydraulic brakes and ‘canvas’-covered saddle and handlebar grips.
WHAT'S THE PERFORMANCE LIKE?
Boardman’s striking-looking URB 8.8 belied the hybrid label by putting in a fast, feisty and fun ride. The saddle and 31.6mm seatpost make it quite firm, but it’s good over rougher surfaces if not bigger bumps. You could up tyre width or go tubeless if you want more plushness, but this is a very fine bike for nipping through city traffic.
THE KIT?
The Tektro Auriga disc braking is powerful, assured, has a light action and is more than enough for city duties. SRAM’s 1x gearing is equally effective, simple, efficient, with a super-size 42T sprocket low enough for even steep ascents.
WHAT'S THE FINAL VERDICT?
Practical, pacy, sharp handling, this is ideal for short, fast commutes. A firm ride, yes, but wider tyres or going tubeless would address that, and the 8.8 represents great value.
Cycling Plus Best On Test / November 2018 Issue 346