Pro-Lite Pro-Lite Galileo

The 2005 Pro-Lite's 53cm, Multi-Directional, Monocoque, Carbon composite frame renders a bit more feedback than my 2004, 7055 double-butted aluminum-framed Cycles Mercier bike. The bike's ride definitely feels stiffer, but is not that harsh by any means at all. The bike is responsive to rider input and easy to maneuver on the flats, or on the hills.

Though more rigid than aluminum, the ride characteristic is surprisingly compliant, which I noticed immediately after rolling over a patch of rough road. The lack of harshness transmitted up through the bars over broken roads, was slightly less than my aluminum-framed bike. The steering/front end feels quite stable at low to moderate pace and firmly planted on high speed descents as well.

The bike shifts very cleanly with positive, crisp upshifts and downshifts throughout the

gear range. Quite a noticeable difference from the 9-speed Ultegra 6500 and Tiagra Flight

Deck components on my Mercier. Braking is provided via the Ultegra brakes which deliver

good, solid performance with fairly even modulation. Though, not such stellar performance in my opinion. The difference between lower end Tektro components isn't what I had expected. Surprisingly, the Tektro's offer pretty good stopping power, while the Ultegra's felt only marginally better to me.

At 2.3+ pounds this frame seems to be an excellent platform for Touring, Climbing, and Sprinting. The stock Double Ring 6600 Ultegra 10-speed group - including brakes, shifters, crank, and BB make this ride an extremely good value while delivering excellent performance.

It also lends itself well to future upgrades. Lighter, higher end wheels, Carbon cranks, Carbon bars, etc. Virtually stock, this 53cm bike weighs in at 17.2 pounds. One could readily reduce that weight by a pound and have a world class-weighing bicycle at an unbelievably moderate price. ($1,599.00 for the Pro-Lite Vincolo badged version from Price Point)

I would classify this bike at about the lower mid-level range regarding riding experience

and budget. It certainly isn't an entry-level bike at $1,600.00, but it's also $400 to $1,500

Less than most of it's direct competition. This bike could easily cost close to $3,000 dollars

given it's advanced composite materials, and Ultegra gruppo.

If you are looking for a new bike upgrade,

with a budget of $2,500 to $3,000, I would seriously consider the Pro-Lite.