Felt VR

85/100
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Facts

Gender
Release Year
Brand
Wheel Size
Number of Gears
Gearing Type
Weight
16.9, 17.2, 18.5, 19.84 lb
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material

Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the Felt VR. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

18 reasons to buy

  • An upright ride position combines with relaxed geometry for long-distance comfort.
  • Devox VR2.1 tubeless-ready rims were lauded by experts and liked by wide tires.
  • Carbon models were appreciably light.
  • A stiff ride quality is reported from owners of both carbon and alloy frames.
  • Generous tire clearance welcomes rubber up to a max size of 30-35c.
  • A low chainstay-toptube junction increases vibration absorbance.
  • An 11-32 tooth cassette offered enough range for the steepest of climbs.
  • Mounts are provisioned for a toptube bolt-on bento box as well as fenders.
  • Headset sizing is adjusted across frame sizes to maintain consistent geometry.
  • Reviewers described the VR’s ride as even and comfortable.
  • The VR4’s mixed-brand drivetrain components worked well.
  • Shimano Ultegra drivetrain components were outstanding and dependable.
  • Perforated bar tape felt comfortable over long distances.
  • Prologo Scratch and Kappa Space saddles were deemed comfortable by experts.
  • Internal cabling was compatible with mechanical and electronic drivetrains.
  • Larger frames over 58cm came with three bottle mounts for maximum slaking.
  • Felt's ‘subcompact’ FSA crankset on the V2, was praised by an expert reviewer.
  • The VR3’s subcompact 48/32 crankset is well suited to distance riding on varied surfaces.

3 reasons not to buy

  • One Felt VR3 owner only received German language instructions.
  • An expert said FSA chainrings were a mite reluctant to release between shifts.
  • On the VR3, 48t chainrings left some riders wanting for extra speed on flats.

Bottom line

Felt’s VR series is designed to sit somewhere between gravel and road. Reviewers said these bikes were well suited to long distance riding on a variety of surfaces. This made them excellent commuters in areas where road quality was less dependable. Comfort was lauded over long distances. Close attention to tube-shapes results in accommodation of vertical buckling pressures. A low chainstay-toptube junction allows for exposed seatpost and, therefore, increased absorbance of vibration. With a variety of price points, frame materials and gearing options, this is an affordable entrant for people who need a versatile commuter, road bike AND / OR hardpack adventurer.

Expert Reviews

78/100 based on 2 rated expert reviews
80

Felt VR4 Review

Overall, the VR4 is a fine machine. It sets out to be a comfortable long-distance bike and it hits that mark bang on… hard to beat if you want to stay free of aches and pains after big days… the Volvo of endurance bikes.

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75

Bicycles in Comparison: Cross-Border Commuters (Felt VR5) [German]

Felt’s new flagship tourer… combines high comfort and reliable handling with a sporting spirit. The reasonably cheap equipment and the resulting weight cost points.

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Road or Cross Tires for a Day in the Dirt?

Slack geometry, massive tire clearance and ultra-low gearing… I really enjoy riding the V2… upright position, cushy rear-end, relatively low weight makes for a comfortable, all-day ride. It’s ready for touring duties too.

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Fast and Flurrious MTB

Felt VR60 Gravel Conversion…

…I realized that I could take a gravel tire, put it on this, change out the handlebars…and turn this into a gravel bike. Now, this was not an expensive bike, aluminum frame… it feels fast… traction feels good…

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Felt VR2 Ushers in New-School Endurance Design For California Brand

On a three-hour ride that tackled a 3.7mi dirt climb and descent, the VR2 felt comfortable but not sluggish… On the asphalt, the VR still felt fast…

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Felt VR2

The geometry is still closer to a road bike than a gravel bike, so roadies will feel at home carving pavement or dirt.

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Red Kite Prayer

When Fun Is the Goal

This is a dream bike for all but the most aggressive circumstances… Felt worked with FSA to introduce a new crank… They call it subcompact… It’s genius… A bike perfect for daily riding.

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You Won’t Believe What You Can Do on the Felt VR2

…these bikes have little to do with racing… Technically, 30mm tires are the largest that will fit, but knowing my overnighter would involve a lot of dirt, I threw on some 35mm Schwalbe G-Ones. They fit…

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First Ride: Felt’s New VR Variable Road Machine

…road-specific fit and ride characteristics make trips up paved climbs or long days more comfortable while huge tire clearance, small gearing and adventure details give you the push to explore dirt and gravel roads.

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Canadian Cycling Magazine

Felt VR3, Endurance Road Bike, Reviewed

…low gear ratios allow you to stay in the saddle and move up a steep climb. If you want to get out of the saddle as you pump up the incline, the bike doesn’t feel as spritely…

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The Felt VR3 Is Built for Massive Endurance Rides

…this bike is not meant to be raced, it’s meant to be ridden. And for that purpose it was impressive… In sum, the VR3 enabled me to ride more without suffering…

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Variable Horizons: Felt’s New VR

Overall, the VR endurance road bike incorporates many features that increase the versatility in off-road conditions, without losing too much performance on the road.

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pressedienst-fahrrad

Felt VR3 [German]

…all of the flexibility, agility and sportiness that you want from a road bike…

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User Ratings

100/100 based on 4 ratings
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Bike Comparison

Felt VR in comparison to averages

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