First Ride: Fezzari Fore CR4

The Fezzari Fore CR4’s carbon frame is built-up with a mix of drivetrain parts, including an FSA SL-K crankset, Shimano

Utah-based Fezzari Bicycles is one of the leaders in the consumer-direct cycling marketplace. They offer a large selection of road, mountain and triathlon bikes at relatively low prices compared to most local bike shops and other retailers, while showcasing mixed component selections that emphasize value. Fezzari sent us its newest model, the Fore CR4, so we took it out on one of our world-famous lunch rides. Here’s our initial impressions.

The Fezzari Fore CR4 features a BB30 bottom bracket and relatively tall, straight chainstays.

THE TECH
Like all bikes in Fezzari’s Fore CR line of road bikes, the CR4 features a carbon monocoque frame and carbon fork. A wide array of subtly-sculpted tubes create a fairly traditional silhouette, with anomalies including a flattened top tube, a monostay rear carbon bridge that gives way to thin, twin seat stays, and a round seat tube that houses a 31.6mm seatpost. It’s built with a mixed selection of drivetrain parts that includes Shimano Ultegra 6800 shifters and front derailleur, Dura-Ace 9000 rear derailleur, and an FSA SL-K carbon crankset. The wheels are Shimano Ultegra 6800 tubeless-ready aluminum clinchers, and they’re wrapped in Maxxis Xenith Hors Categorie tires in size 23c. The carbon seatpost is an SL-K model from FSA, as is the carbon compact handlebar, while the aluminum stem and lightly padded saddle are Fezzari’s own models.

During our first ride, the Fore CR4 proved mostly comfortable over some rough terrain and stiff enough to keep pace with the fast group.

THE RIDE
Based on our first ride, we feel confident that Fezzari has created another solid bike. The overall ride quality was pleasant, although not as comfortable as some dedicated endurance road models we’ve tested recently. It was stiff enough to keep pace on its initial fast ride, but didn’t feel quite as stiff as some other, higher-end carbon race bikes we’ve had in the RBA stable recently.

The Fore CR4 is decked out in an attractive blue and bright green graphics package; it also features an internally-routed rear brake cable.

THE VERDICT
We’re pleased to say that Fezzari appears to have served up another nice bike. But, of course, one test ride does not tell the whole story. We’re looking forward to putting more miles on the Fore CR4, along with trying out some tubeless tire options on the tubeless-ready Ultegra 6800 wheels. Look for a full test of the Fezzari Fore CR4 in an upcoming issue of Road Bike Action magazine.

Over rough terrain, the Fezzari’s rear-end compliance was noticeable and welcome.

STATS
Price: $2999
Weight: 16.2 pounds
Contact: www.fezzari.com

The Fore CR4 features an internal rear brake cable.

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