Better known for their handlebars and stems, Dedacciai have been making high quality frames for around 20 years – just not always under their own name.
The new high-modulus carbon Ran greets us with understated slimline tube profiles, rather fine looks and an all-Italian specification (this complete build costing around £5,350).
Our medium frame has a quoted weight of 810g, which is up there with the best. The 325g fork and combined 1,135g weight means that even with the addition of the relatively heavy – compared to its mechanical brother – Campagnolo Record EPS groupset, the complete bike weighs just 6.73kg (14.84lb).
The geometry shows its racing intentions, its 13.5cm head tube leaving us in no doubt. It creates a very low front end, but its 74-degree seat angle means you might need more saddle setback or a larger frame to gain sufficient length. The head angle is a relaxed 72 degrees, but doesn’t feel lazy and proves very willing to change direction; it was actually less settled in a straight line than expected.
More than just the frame – Dedacciai supply parts too
Dedacciai have bucked the trend for epic bottom bracket, head tube and chainstay dimensions. They claim to have increased structural integrity and reduced frame weight through their ‘Anti-Wrinkle Process’, which prevents internal creases in the carbon layers and minimises the quantity of resin used. The result is a feathery lightness and beautifully refined and supple ride.
Over badly patched and crumbling surfaces, the Ran just floats with luxurious amounts of comfort. The cantilevered upper seat tube design no doubt helps, as do the Campag wheels, Vittoria tyres and the 27.2mm carbon seatpost, but the overall effect is undoubtedly impressive.
While carefully tuned vertical rigidity helps the rider, we did feel that lateral rigidity was slightly compromised when pushing hard. Unless you’re a stem-munching racer, it’s probably not a major concern, but big-gear sprinting and on-the-limit cornering aren’t the Ran’s forte.
Oodles of carbon and electronic shifting
Record EPS is gloriously indulgent – and both mechanically and ergonomically satisfying – and the Shamal Ultra wheels shod in Vittoria Open Corsa tyres have a fine combination of stability and all-round response, with tenacious grip and excellent comfort.
The Ran favours riding with finesse rather than abuse; work with it and you reap the rewards.
Test spec
- Wheels: Campagnolo Shamal Ultra
- Tyres: Vittoria Open Corsa
- Gears: Shimano Record EPS
- Brakes: Campagnolo Record
- Other stuff: Deda Zero 100 bar and stem, Superzero seatpost, Selle Italia Team Edition Flite saddle
This article was originally published in Cycling Plus magazine, available on Apple Newsstand and Zinio.