INTENSE CYCLES 951 GRAVEL BIKE: PROS AND CONS

 

This weeks “Bicycle of the Week” is the Intense 951 gravel bike. Intense Cycles, renowned for their exceptional mountain bikes, has ventured into the gravel bike realm with their Intense 951 model. In this quick look review, we’ll delve into the bike’s strengths and weaknesses. In this quick Pros and Cons review, we will give you a condensed analysis of its performance and features. This article aims to give you an idea if this is a bicycle you want to investigate further.

LET’S START WITH THE PROS

Sturdy Build Quality. Intense Cycles has applied their years of experience crafting rugged mountain bikes to the Intense 951, resulting in a gravel bike with outstanding build quality. The frame and components exude durability, promising a long lifespan even when subjected to the demands of gravel riding.

Exceptional Handling. The Intense 951 excels in terms of handling, offering a level of responsiveness that allows riders to confidently tackle various terrains. Whether it’s navigating smoothly graded gravel roads or conquering challenging off-road trails, the bike’s nimble and precise handling is a standout feature.

VERSATILE TIRE CLEARANCE AND COMFORTABLE GEOMETRY

A noteworthy advantage of the Intense 951 is its generous tire clearance. This flexibility in tire size selection, caters to a wide range of riding styles and terrains. This also makes it equally suitable for competitive gravel racing and leisurely long-distance touring.

The bike’s frame geometry strikes an excellent balance between comfort and performance. The relaxed seating position minimizes strain on the rider’s back and shoulders during extended rides. This results in overall comfort for long-haul adventures.

HIGH QUALITY COMPONENTS

Intense Cycles has equipped the Intense 951 with top-notch components. A dependable drivetrain ensures smooth shifting, while hydraulic disc brakes provide precise stopping power. The inclusion of a reliable suspension fork enhances control and comfort when navigating rough terrain.

NOW THE CONS

Premium Price Tag. The Intense 951’s impressive build quality and components come at a premium price point. This might deter budget-conscious riders, as there are more affordable options available in the gravel bike market.

Weight Consideration. While the bike is robust, it leans towards the heavier side of the spectrum. This additional weight could impact its climbing performance and overall agility, especially for riders who prioritize a lightweight design.

LIMITED AVAILABILITY/LACK OF INTEGRATED ACCESSORIES

Limited Availability. Intense Cycles, primarily recognized for their mountain bikes, might have limited availability of the Intense 951 in certain regions. Potential buyers might encounter difficulties in locating dealers or test-riding opportunities, which could pose a challenge when making a purchase decision.

Lack of Integrated Accessories. Some gravel bikes on the market feature integrated mounts for racks and fenders, enhancing their utility for bikepacking or commuting. Unfortunately, the Intense 951 lacks these built-in accessories, which could disappoint riders seeking a more versatile bike for various purposes.

LIMITED BRAND RECOGNITION

Limited Brand Recognition in Gravel Segment. Intense Cycles is still establishing its presence in the gravel bike segment. Consequently, prospective buyers might find a scarcity of user reviews and brand recognition compared to more established competitors, making it harder to gauge the bike’s reputation and performance.

IN CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the Intense 951 gravel bicycle from Intense Bicycles brings the brand’s hallmark quality and performance to the gravel bike market. With its robust build, exceptional handling, versatile tire clearance, and comfortable geometry, it’s a compelling choice for riders who prioritize durability and performance.

However, its premium price, weight, limited availability, lack of integrated accessories, and evolving brand recognition in the gravel segment are factors that potential buyers should carefully consider. As Intense Bicycles continues to gain traction in the gravel market, the Intense 951 is poised to become a more competitive and sought-after option for riders seeking a reliable and capable gravel bike.

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