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Dawes Lightning 1500
The Dawes Lightning 1500 road bike is one of the most popular models in the product line of Dawes Cycles USA. Dawes Cycles USA is a different entity from Dawes Cycles, the famed UK bicycle manufacturer based in Birmingham. Dawes Cycles USA apparently licensed the brand name and puts out its own "clone" bike models. Although unrelated to the original, its products are solid and assembled using components from respected brands. And at their price level (most models are under or just around $1000); Dawes Cycles USA bikes are excellent entry level machines for the avid biker on a budget. It is with this in mind that we thought they deserved more than a passing mention on our site.
The Dawes Lightning 1500 sits in the middle of the Lightning product line, a little above entry level, but not quite at the top of the line. It's a capable road bike and provides rock solid performance as a triathlon trainer. It probably won't win awards for its looks, but that shouldn't matter if you're more into functionality over aesthetics. The 1500's geometry also enhances riding comfort; the bike can be set up for the rider to sit in an upright position. When you're ready to get serious just turn a few bolts, adjust the seat, clip on the aero bars and you now have a bike that's ready for more competitive riding.
The frame is a hand built lightweight Altair 1 aluminum compact frame. It's not the lightest in the market, but it can take a lot of punishment on the road. The rigid aluminum construction ensures comfort and stability especially on long rides. This capable road bike comes with Shimano Sora STI 24 Speed shifters, Shimano 2200 front derailleurs and Tiagra rear derailleurs. Shimano produces some of the lightest and top-performing equipment in the industry, and these components on the Dawes Lightning 1500 are often found on the more expensive bike brands and models. As a result, the 1500 offers surprisingly easy handling and maneuverability for a bike in this price level. It also has the versatility to capably handle tough climbs and headwinds.
No matter what your body type and dimensions, you'll find the right size Dawes Lightning 1500 for you. Dawes Cycles USA has a Guaranteed Fit System based on your height. Bike sizes range from X-Small (28-inch standover) for riders below five feet to around five feet and three quarter inches, to X-Large (33.5-inch standover) for tall people above six feet. All Dawes Lightning 1500 bikes have seat stems so you can further adjust the seat height as you require.
The 1 1/8" steering column sits atop the carbon fiber fork, another feature that is more commonly found in bikes at a higher price level. Other features of the Dawes Lightning 1500 include mounts for two water bottles and an attachment for a rear rack.
Besides the 1500, Other Dawes Lightning models include the top of the line Lightning SL and 5000 series with carbon fiber frames, the 2000 series, the 1000 series (which includes the 1500), and the Lightning DLX, DT, Sport, Cross, Track and Tour bikes.
If you are looking to get into triathlon training and would like a capable entry-level bike, or if you just want a versatile bike for everyday riding and the occasional speed run, then the Dawes Lightning 1500 is the bike for you.