I've finally found my "Zen Spot". The combination of a steel frame, carbon fibre fork, carbon fibre seatpost and 700/28c tires. This is the magic formula. It combines just the right amount of comfort and efficiency.
I have the fit dialed in perfectly. Riding in the drops feels so natural. The carbon fork was a huge improvement over the original steel fork. It's lighter, stiffer laterally and more compliant vertically. Ride quality is beyond what this bike's price point would suggest.
My favourite place to sit while I take a ride in the country and enjoy the scenery. Built for long days in the saddle.
The carbon seatpost provides just the right amount of flex when riding over rough terrain. The 28c tires strike the best balance between comfort and efficiency. They smooth out the bumps, yet still require some effort from the engine to achieve speed.
The best way I can describe the experience of riding this bike is: balance. Just looking at it makes me want to go for a ride.