The Strada SL received first-rate reports for offering a good fit and being a comfortable ride, partly due to the comfortable Colnago-brand saddle.
Many owners find the bike’s design to be attractive.
Reviewers highlight the Strada SL’s vertical ‘forgiveness’ or ‘compliance’, meaning that this aluminum frame vibrates and bounces less than others.
Longer-term owners described this bike as ‘durable’ and ‘robust’. The build quality has won commendations from users and experts.
Several owners felt that the complete package was good value, with experts noting the inclusion of Shimano 105 kit as a particularly good deal.
The partnership of an aluminum frame and carbon fork, resulted in a satisfyingly low overall weight.
Riders appreciated the quality of the Colnago house-brand brakes, wheels and saddle – coupled with Deda handlebars and stem.
Cornering is considered tight and responsive.
On starts, the Strada is said to accelerate decisively.
Experts described this rig as a capable all-rounder, delivering on endurance rides, climbs and descents.
The gearing has garnered compliments for its efficiency and ease of use.

5 reasons not to buy

Buyers were disheartened at Colnago’s limited color choices for the Strada SL.
Despite products from Colnago’s house-brand generally being received well, the aluminum wheels were considered average by one expert.
Experts and users noted that, while Colnago’s carbon fork shaved off weight, it was compromised by the presence of an alloy steerer tube.
One expert evaluated the componentry as being average.
This same expert declared the Strada to be a bit on the ‘firm’ side.

Bottom line

Colnago is a brand renowned for its Italian road pedigree, with a price-point that often puts it out of reach of the lay-consumer. The Strada SL offers a low-cost, entry-level option with the much-touted Shimano 105 groupset. While aluminum is considered out-of-vogue for some road riders, on the Strada it is coupled with a carbon fork to offer a lightweight and affordable alternative to a full carbon rig. Complaints were generally limited to the ride being a little firm. For a road-rider’s starter bike at this price, you could do a lot worse.

By Owen Jesse

Expert Reviews

70/100 based on 1 rated expert review

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BikeRadar

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Colnago Strada SL 105 Review

Level 5 expert

Surefooted rather than springy and sparky, but an affordable all-round aristocrat.

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Togo Parts

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Colnago Strada SL Review

Level 1 expert

Overall, the componentry and technical advances that have been put together to create this splendid riding machine, is worth much more than the retail price that it’s actually selling for, so if anyone is considering starting out road riding, I highly recommend this bike.

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