Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you the winner of the road.cc Bike of the Year 2016-17 award, the Boardman Road Pro Carbon SLR.
The Boardman has already scooped the Road Bike of the Year award and it put off all contenders in the overall Bike of the Year shortlist to be named this year’s winner. It put in a really good performance when we reviewed it. When you combine the top level ride and handling, decent equipment and finishing kit, and the price, it just all adds up to offer a complete package. Whether you’re new to cycling or looking for an upgrade, the Boardman Road Pro Carbon SLR ticks all the boxes.
The Road Pro is a stunning bike to look at. That mirror effect silver paint job makes it stand out, especially in the sunshine; you're going to get noticed for sure. That beauty isn't just skin-deep, though. In a cycling world where bikes are starting to cross as many disciplines as possible, the Boardman knows exactly what it is: a proper race bike that just begs to be ridden hard. It likes being on the tarmac, getting chucked downhill on the ragged edge of the tyre's grip, or being sprinted hard up that 20 percent climb without the slightest hint of flex from the frame.
It’s hard to find fault with the Boardman, and believe us we tried to find one. It’s a high-quality carbon fibre frame and fork with a spot on geometry that provides a pretty racy position, ideal for tucking in fast for some rapid pedalling action. It’s not going to disappoint you whether, in a sportive or race bunch, that’s for sure. The frame is well appointed, with a SRAM Force 22 groupset that is light and easy to use, and it’s finished off with the excellent Mavic Ksyrium wheels and decent finishing kit. It’s a good price at £1,799, but it’s currently discounted to £1,619 which makes it an even better buy, leaving you a couple of hundred quid to spend on some new clothing to go with your new bike, or just leave in the bank.
Why it's here: Impressive weight and value, and an exciting, rewarding ride – Boardman has nailed the race bike format
David Arthur, Road.cc January 13th, 2017