We had the privilege of being the first people to get their hands on Forme’s Aluminium Calver SL at the start of the 2018/19 Cyclocross Season and after two seasons of racing, trail riding and commuting we share our thoughts on this beast of a bike!
Test rider Jenson Young commented
“The Forme Calver SL CX Bike is definitely a great choice – It has everything you need in cross bike!”
Coming in at a penny under £500 for the frame and forks, this is certainly a competitive offering for a race-ready cyclocross bike.
Although not a carbon frame, the Calver SL still offers excellent value and ride quality; and coming in at under 1200g for our test frame makes it the lightest aluminium cross bike on the market and very competitive amongst other carbon frames too!
Again despite the aluminium frame, Forme have featured some of the latest tech on the Calver SL frame: with 12mm thru axles front and rear, and flat-mount brakes amongst those included. Unlike other brands however, Forme chose to stick with the trusty English GXP External Bottom Bracket Cups – allowing for a creak-free ride and easy maintanence. No complaining on that from us!
The Carbon Fork and Steerer also contribute to the lightweight build whilst the all black fork on yellow frame gives the Calver a classy, distinctive finish.
The fact we have seen more and more riders adopt the Calver SL as their race bike this season gives further testament to the great job Forme have done on revamping their Cyclocross range. The Cantilever Forme Hiver used to the a riders favourite budget CX race bike and we think the Calver SL is certainly up to the task of re-establishing Formes return to popularity in the Cyclocross Market.
The race ready geometry gives a smooth and responsive ride, and it has been no surprise to see the bikes already claiming titles in the UK and abroad. Most notably Kate Eedy taking the World Masters Cyclocross Championship Victory!
To any cross rider with a low budget who wants to compete at their highest ability with the best equipment, this bike will not let you down.
More information about the new Calver SL including where to purchase the bike, can be found here