Using our experience with carbon frames and forks, Leopard Cycles is determined to bring to market an affordable all-carbon time-trial bike.

After careful study, we've determined there is marginal benefit from the aero-shaped down tube. Given the rotating front wheel and the shock wave of the wheel moving forward, the down tube is in an area of turbulence where an aero shape will have marginal, if any benefit. Furthermore, making a “knife-edge” down tube will most certainly affect the ride quality of the bike, and will in all likelihood, carry a stiff weight penalty.

More important is the rider position on the bike. Following two schools of thought, one that says the seat should move forward allowing for a lower and more compact aero position. There has also been a fair amount written about how this position with the saddle setback moved forward allows some crossover from running to cycling in terms of muscular endurance. The other school of thought involves the more traditional saddle setback and adjusting the rider's position with shorter top tube and stem while maintaining a standard setback.

We have agreed to work with professional duathlete Christine Knight in the development of this program. We have used our standard road geometry with special aero fork and seat tube, along with a forward-canting seatpost giving her more of a triathlon specific position. Early feedback indicates the ride quality and lightweight bike (17.5 lbs with pedals and aero wheels) – make for terrific combination.

I knew that I could use more fiber in my diet, but on a tight budget leaving this essential ingredient off of my menu seemed inevitable. This is where Leopard Cycles comes in. While I was searching for equipment sponsorship for my inaugural Pro season, a fellow multisport athlete forwarded to me a list of bicycle companies that she thought could be of assistance. I emailed out my race portfolio and waited for responses.

Mark and Roy of Leopard Cycles both responded within hours. This was an impressive turn around time. I then checked out their website, www.leopardcycles.com, and was further impressed. The looks of their products was beyond impressive. Before I could even shout “Leaping Leopards”, I was on an airplane to their company headquarters in San Francisco to meet with Mark and his staff for a custom fit and test ride.

After Leopard’s chief wrench Rich Sangalli, former NORBA pro mountain biker and Cyclocross National Team member, took measurements and worked his magic I rolled an eye catching red and gold frame out of the warehouse. This particular Leopard L1 is standard road geometry with a few “fit tricks”, one being a forward canting seat post. Plans are to introduce an all carbon time trial/triathlon specific frame by fall of 2006.

The longest rides that I had logged since the previous Fall were in the 30 mile range. When Mark mentioned that the test ride we would take was to be 50 miles of steep hills I was apprehensive. How would I hold up on a bike I have never ridden for that distance? I was visioning an afternoon of pain and agony as I reluctantly settled into the saddle for a test ride.

Three hours later things were not simply good, but great! Other than the obvious side effect of tired legs I felt fine. The frame of the Leopard cycle is responsive, light, aero, and just plain beautiful. Not to mention forgiving, which my body certainly appreciated. This bike is easily the sweetest ride I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing.

I felt no soreness from an improper fit or an unforgiving frame in the subsequent days after my test ride. This confirms that the makers of the L1 bike have things figured out and know how to please a customer. Not only are their product and customer service superlative, but the colors offered and the component packages assembled will conform to all tastes and budgets. Specific aero positioning is easily attained through their assistance. The service is thoughtfully personalized throughout the fitting process.

Anyone interested in having the same positive experience I received should check out the Leopard Cycles website. Then contact Mark and get ready for a sweet ride.

Christine Knight

2005 ITU Duathlon National Championship: 1st Female Overall

2005 ITU Duathlon World Championship (short course): 6th Female Overall, 3rd Age Group

2005 ITU Duathlon World Championship (long course: 3rd Female Overall, 1st Age Group

For more information about Christine, check out her website at http://www.ulbfit.com

For specific questions on her bike and setup, feel free to email her at christine@ulbfit.com