Just over two months ago we officially launched our new flagship frameset, the Altias Fusion. Since then, we've continued to get a number of questions about its versatility. While it has been engineered to suit the demands of elite, Olympic-level sprint performance, we asked local elite rider Lucas Murphy to share his experience with its performance in endurance events.
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Name: Lucas Murphy
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Age bracket: Elite
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Height: 188cm
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Body weight: 78kg
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Primary discipline: Endurance
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Years racing on the track: 6+
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Main race events: Individual Pursuit, Team Pursuit, Omnium, Madison
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Previous frame and size: Avanti Pista Team XL
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Altias Fusion size and fork choice: Large, Fork A
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Typical race gear range: 106-120 Inch
Why Altias and why now
How did you first come across the Altias Fusion frameset, and what caught your attention about it?
I first heard about the Altias Fusion frameset through the local Cambridge, New Zealand cycling community. There was talk of Velobike coming out with a new frame for some time, and so along with many others, I was eagerly awaiting the Altias Fusion Frameset release.
Before switching, what were you riding and what did you like or dislike about that setup?
I was riding on an Avanti Pista Team. The main issue I always struggled with was setting up my IP/TP position, as the seatpost setback meant the furthest forward position still had my saddle 9+cm behind the bottom bracket.
There are a lot of high end track frames around. What made you choose the Altias Fusion over other options?
I have always been impressed at the quality, and level of thought that Glenn and the Velobike team has put into their other track cycling products, and I knew the Altias Fusion frameset would be no different. This along with the modern geometry were the biggest factors in my decision to choose the Altias Fusion.
Did you have any hesitations or concerns before committing to the frame? How did you work through those?
The team at Velobike were very helpful with answering my questions and concerns. Being local meant I was able to get hands on with a frame which helped tick the boxes. Having the advice of world class mechanic, Tait Somervell, who has been hands on with most top end track bikes also helped answer racing specific questions, and give me that extra confidence.
Fit, setup and first impressions
How did the fit of the Altias compare to your previous frame on paper, and how did that translate on the track?
The Altias is significantly longer than the bike I was on, which has allowed me to set up a more aggressive, longer bunch racing position, and with the wide range of adjustability I have been able to set up a more comfortable and powerful IP/TP position. On paper we knew this would be the case, and it has improved both bunch and pursuit positions on track.
Talk us through your first ride on the Altias. What stood out straight away?
On my first ride on the Altias, I immediately noticed the more responsive handling, and the stiffness when accelerating. With the bottom bracket being much lower to the ground than my old frame. I also felt as though I was a part of the bike, rather than sitting up high on top of it.
Ride feel, stiffness and handling
How would you describe the overall ride feel of the Altias Fusion compared with your previous frame?
To put it simply, it feels like a pure race bike.
Out of the gate and in standing efforts, what does the frame feel like under full load?
Compared to my previous frame, when doing standing efforts its night and day, when coming out of the gate at max effort, it feels like the Altias propels forward, rather than flexing side to side.
How does it behave in high speed efforts and race pace turns?
When doing race pace or even overpaced efforts, the Altias is much more stable, and easier to steer exactly where you want it. It is more controlled, and easier to correct line choice.
Are there any situations where the stiffness or stability really surprised you, in a good way?
Both during standing starts and high speed efforts the stiffness and stability has really stood out.
Have coaches or other riders commented on your position or the bike since the switch?
The Altias has certainly gathered a fair amount of attention, with other riders commenting on how both my bunch and pursuit positions are looking better.
If you had to sum up the difference between your old frame and the Altias Fusion in a few sentences, what would you say?
For me, a big advantage is being able to set up a better position with more adjustability, however the stiffness and handling are a great added gain.
Who the Altias Fusion frame is for
What level of rider do you think will get the most out of an Altias Fusion?
Anyone who is committed to chasing ambitious goals and leaving no stone unturned would find gains in an Altias Fusion.
For high level amateurs thinking about investing in a Fusion, what should they realistically expect it to change for them?
I would say it largely depends what frame they are coming from, but in my experience the stiffness and handling are likely going to be better, and provide them with a platform to help them excel.
What advice would you give someone who is on the fence between staying on their current frame or moving to an Altias?
I would say do your research, the Altias website has a lot of helpful information that can help you make a decision about moving to an Altias. Figure out your goals, and what will help you achieve them.
If you had to describe the Altias Fusion in one sentence to a fellow rider in the pits, what would you say?
Fast, stable, and stiff.
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