I suppose the main thing I wanted to know was how the frame is. If it feels like itll last and if its well made. I do look after my bikes well and itd be cared for, bit if its as shoddy as people have said, albeit people who dont own one, I thought I should maybe go for a different material. I do need something thatll last as unfortunatly im in no financial position to be replacing bikes every few years.
OK - well I bought mine last year and have stuck about 2k miles on it. I'm not riding it outside at the moment (it's sat on the turbo) - but I cleaned it down post hibernation and there were no problems. No abrassions, cracks, wear etc.. It still looks like new. The only thing you do need to watch for is cable rub on the frame (but this is a problem with all carbon bikes) and this is easily fixed with the application of a few lizard skinz patches. The dropouts are reinforced in alloy so there should be no problems if you change wheels regularly either.
A few reviews have mentioned that the back end is quite soft and I'd agree with this to some extent. If you're a steady power rider like me then you won't notice. If you like sprinting and bursts of speed then you will and it might be worth considering something a little stiffer on the back end. Personally my old bones prefer the comfort of something with a little compliance. That doesn't mean it flexes all the time. You do really have to shove some power through the pedals to get this effect. It's not going to start see-sawing every time you reach a hill and get off the saddle (if you do that!)
I had the same dilema as you before I bought. Not many reviews for the Virago and the 1k Boardman gets good scores. I was fortunate in that I got a chance to ride both bikes. For me the Virago just "fit" me and my style of riding better and ultimately that's what you're after.
If you go this route I would recommend changing the tyres almost as soon as. They're OK - but the puncture protection is only adequate. Join British Cycling and you'll get 10% off the current £999 price tag - giving you around £70 to spend on these (after paying the membership fee). I'm going to change the white bar tape for red before the new season too (but these are minor niggles).
The CXP-22 wheels are fine btw. I know reviewers say upgrade and my own experience of different wheels is limited. I won't disagree with the reviewers but that's an upgrade that can be done later if you wish.
And if you have any other questions then feel free to either PM me or just ask on this discussion topic. Another person on here (I think MrMac - or something like that) has one and may be able to add as well.
). In any case I've never had to use it so it's not been a problem.
