Raleigh Criterium Race: bike preview |Martin Love

A carbon road bike from one of the world's most historic brands shows that Raleigh is back on its game

Raleigh is almost 130 years old. But a decade ago, it was on its knees. You'd never have dreamed of buying a Raleigh - unless of course you came across a vintage Chopper. But in 2012 the huge Dutch corporation Accell stepped in and gave the historic brand the breathing space and, more crucially, the funds to refind its mojo. The Raleigh race team was relaunched to spearhead R&D and the fruit of all that labour is now peddling its way to a bike shop near you. The latest generation of frames are award-winning, and this Criterium Race is a perfect example. It's lightweight carbon and offers the best balance of stiffness and weight available at this level. It's a super ride - and the satisfaction of being on a great British bike will last long after the burning in your thighs has eased (raleigh.co.uk).

Price: 1,500
Frame: carbon
Gears: Shimano Ultegra