Cinelli Zydeco

16 reasons to buy

• Some call this a ‘do-everything bike’, performing well on sprints, endurance rides, gravel and on-road.

• The Zydeco stands out with a polished aluminum frame and classic Cinelli colors.

• Featuring bosses for a rear rack and fenders, the Zydeco can serve as a commuter or light tourer.

• The attention to detail and finish on the Zydeco was stunning and precise.

• An efficient transfer of power was experienced on the Zydeco, even when loaded.

• The combination of a carbon fork and alloy frame offered great value for performance.

• On the ‘Full Color’, SRAM Apex 1 componentry impressed, while the rest was low-cost but good quality.

• The Zydeco felt stable and comfortable on difficult terrain, aiding endurance on longer trips.

• Clearance allowed for tires up to 42c, plus fenders.

• The Zydeco’s geometry was well-matched to racing; offering a short reach, lowered bottom-bracket and whippy steering.

• Internal cabling is new to the 2019 Zydeco, creating a cleaner look and room for bag straps.

• The bar, stem and seatpost were furnished with Cinelli-brand parts under the ‘Vai’ moniker. These were reliable but kept costs down.

• Tektro and TRP brakes were low maintenance and performed well for cable discs.

• Challenge Griffo 40mm tires were grippy in the wet and delivered ample speed on gravel.

• Experts stressed that the Zydeco’s cornering was sharp and nimble.

• Reviewers said the Zydeco climbed, descended and handled rough trails well.