Azzurri Imperia Elite

A tasty piece of kit at a killer price! – Price to performance ratio, Azzurri's Imperia Elite ranks as simply outstanding. I looked at many contenders in its class, but two brands' product stood out for their features of top notch components at a stunning pricepoint. It was close run thing, but after not inconsiderable wrist wringing knowing I couldn't really go wrong either way, I chose… Read more

Azzurri's Imperia Elite. Here's why.

The real closers for me which its rival lacked, were the carbon seat stays and inclusion of an FSA carbon seatpost, plus importantly, a slightly more relaxed frame geometry. In conjunction with its full carbon fork including a carbon steerer, that all added up to the promise of superior ride quality with a frame geometry better suited to my non-competition purpose.

I ordered a Medium (in stock) online and got down to the business of waiting with eager anticipation for the courier with a big box to arrive. Hmm...and I waited...and waited. Two to three days promised despatch turned into two and a half weeks. 'Nuff said.

Fast forward two and a bit months ownership. Full 105 5700 drive train, shifters and brakes supported by FSA component handlebars, headset, stem, & seat post. Wheels (as spec) are actually WH-R500 instead of slightly later R501 or RS10, but I've found them quite reliable in service so far. I'll reassess how well they continue to stay in true over the next two thousand kilometres. The fitted Zaffiro tyres were a smart choice for this bike, their combination of ride quality and puncture resistance proving a sound marriage. Saddle isn't a Selle Italia as the website's images depict, and my sit bones let me know it as I clocked up the km. It is per spec an Active (Anatomc), and the only component on this bike which really doesn't 'fit' with the rest of the components in my view. I surmised that when I made my buy decision, deciding it was a minor, singular trade-off easily remedied. Like most bikes today other than at entry level, pedals are not supplied, so you have to factor the price of your preference in.

In summary. Azzurri's Imperia Elite rides well and offers exceptional value. Price, Component level, Carbon features, Geometry, Overall comfort and performance, Finish Excessive delivery delay, Saddle