Exceptional performance at a very reasonable price in an eye-catching design sums up the Kestrel RT-1000 with Shimano Ultegra. Every Kestrel bike is engineered from scratch in Philadelphia, PA. It begins with a good idea on piece of paper, then a computer-aided design, and finally to extensive prototyping and rigorous lab testing. The result is a carbon bike that’s like nothing else you’ve ever ridden.</p> <p>The RT-1000 is made from a special blend of 700k and 800k high modulus carbon fiber that gives the frame a unique road feel. The 700k carbon fiber is stiff, yet allows for increased compliance in certain areas of the bike. The 800k carbon fiber is 30% stiffer, and allows Kestrel to use 20% less material to craft a bike that is exceptionally light, stiff and comfortable. The BB30 press fit bottom bracket increases the frame’s rigidity around the crankset and the tapered head tube increase stiffness in the front end. The result is a bike that will take off like a rocket when you put the hammer down.</p> <p>The Kestrel RT-1000 is outfitted with Shimano’s Ultegra 11-speed drivetrain. Ultegra is a competition level drivetrain that is very similar to the pro-level Dura-Ace, but at a more budget friendly price–making it one of the most popular groupsets in the world. Featuring redesigned ergonomics, lower friction shifting, a redesigned front derailleur for more mechanical advantage, and a new rear derailleur geometry, Ultegra delivers the best shifting in the world, at a price everyone can love. </p> <p>Oval Concepts, long known for producing high quality components, completes the RT-1000 build. The Oval 527 clincher wheels are lightweight and comfortable and are outfitted with Vittoria Zaffiro Pro tires that have a slick surface for low rolling resistance and a wider 25c profile for a smooth ride and more stability, especially while cornering. A Prologo Nago Evo saddle and a Kestrel EMS Pro Aero seat post add more efficiency to a