Hey there,

So I’m on the hunt for the stiffest frame out there. Right now, I think I’ve narrowed it down to the Opal or the 585. What would you guys choose? Or, is there another frame out there that I should go check out? I’m not too worried about cost, as no matter what frame I choose, I’ll be saving for a while.

Thanks in advanced!!

I'm sure you are aware, but just in case, Look came out with 2 versions of the 585 for 2007: the regular as we've known version called Origin and a new stiffer Ultra version. Well 3 versions really with the Womens Elle model.

Brand new website: http://lookcycle.com/

The 2007 model with two versions is the 595. It is a completely new frame not to be confused with the 585.

Hey there,

So I’m on the hunt for the stiffest frame out there. Right now, I think I’ve narrowed it down to the Opal or the 585. What would you guys choose? Or, is there another frame out there that I should go check out? I’m not too worried about cost, as no matter what frame I choose, I’ll be saving for a while.

Thanks in advanced!!

either would be a great choice, as they are as stiff as any rider could humanly need. Here is why the decision is up to you: If you'll "be saving for a while", the opal is substantially less expensive. With a name like THOR4LIFE, I assume you mean Hushovd, so that has a value, so get the Look. Sometimes its not about science, its about,well, what makes you feel good. Me? If they cost the same, I'd probably go Look, but I think the Opal is a better value, so in reality I'd get the Orbea.

Actually, it is the 585 that comes in an Ultra version.

The 595 is already stiffer based on the seat tube design.

I do not know what is stiffer, the 595 or the 585 Ultra?

Actually, according to Looks site, both the 585 and 595 come in the Ultra configuration. And the 595 is right at a pound lighter than the Opal. (1050g compaired to 1524g)

I figure this will come down to riding both and seeing what feels better under me, but right now my LBS doesn't have any Look bikes, much less a 595...

Actually the Look 595 frame weight is 1080 grams and frame with fork is 1395 grams. I have an Oapl and it really is as stiff as you are probalby ever going to need. I also have a Look 555 and I find it plenty stiff. The 555 rides alot better and I would be willing to bet that it is because of Looks extensive experience with carbon lay-up. They really know how to do carbon right.

Toss in another choice. Time. Had a VXR (I think that is what they called it) and that one was STiii-iff! I have a 585 right now and I do like it a lot. I am 6'1" and about 165-170lbs. I had an Orbea, the Orca, and it was not that great for my taste.. It climbed ok but handled like crap and was kinda tacky looking..The Time is a much quicker handling frame than the Look. The Look seems to be a very very good all around bike for me, and I have had most all the high enders in the past few years. Not sure how much the "Ultra" may mean, I doubt you could probably tell the difference in stiffness. Just guessing though..
Don Hanson

Actually, according to Looks site, both the 585 and 595 come in the Ultra configuration.

Bingo! Both models come in an Ultra version.

The way they stack up to each other is this: the 585 Ultra is slightly stiffer than the standard 595. The 595 Ultra is slightly stiffer than the 585 Ultra.

The finish we end up going with on the 595 ultra is a little different than what's up on the website. It will be a gloss clearcoat instead of the silk-matte clearcoat, and it looks freakin' unbelievable. Keep a look-out for Interbike pics. It is seriously one of the hottest looking bikes I've ever seen!

chas@LookUSA

Not sure how much the "Ultra" may mean, I doubt you could probably tell the difference in stiffness. Just guessing though..


Believe me, I understand your skepticism. The bicycle industry is full of unsubstantiated claims, but I can tell you from first-hand experience that the difference is noticeable. Whether this difference translates into any quantifiable increase in performance I have no idea, but if you were to ride the two back to back, I guarantee you would feel the difference.

chas@LookUSA

Actually, according to Looks site, both the 585 and 595 come in the Ultra configuration. And the 595 is right at a pound lighter than the Opal. (1050g compaired to 1524g)

I figure this will come down to riding both and seeing what feels better under me, but right now my LBS doesn't have any Look bikes, much less a 595...
check your weights...the opal is at 1050g for frame, and the fork that ships with it is full carbon at 400g.....weight wise they are going to be pretty close...

Hmm...I might have to check out the Time. But as of right now, Look is winning me over pretty hard. I really just want the best sprinting machine that I can put togeather. And that 595 is stacking up pretty well.

Gnarly: Thanks for the info. NIce to hear from someone who has experence on all of those.

As for the weight of the Opal, that's just what weight poped up when I was on Orbea's "custom build" page.

Thanks for all the help guys!

The finish we end up going with on the 595 ultra is a little different than what's up on the website. It will be a gloss clearcoat instead of the silk-matte clearcoat, and it looks freakin' unbelievable. Keep a look-out for Interbike pics. It is seriously one of the hottest looking bikes I've ever seen!

chas@LookUSA

Does the finish on the Ultra look like the Origin finish? Please post some pictures:ihih:

I agree, 589 ultra ia looking good. Forget the orbea, if you buy it you will be kicking yourself in the ass saying i should have the look. And watch, soon as you buy the orbea, someone is going to rool up on a 595 ultra and you will be sorry!

Believe me, I understand your skepticism. The bicycle industry is full of unsubstantiated claims, but I can tell you from first-hand experience that the difference is noticeable. Whether this difference translates into any quantifiable increase in performance I have no idea, but if you were to ride the two back to back, I guarantee you would feel the difference.

chas@LookUSA


why isn't the Ultra available in TEAM color? That stinks!

Believe me, I understand your skepticism. The bicycle industry is full of unsubstantiated claims, but I can tell you from first-hand experience that the difference is noticeable. Whether this difference translates into any quantifiable increase in performance I have no idea, but if you were to ride the two back to back, I guarantee you would feel the difference.

chas@LookUSA
Is there a noticeable difference in comfort of these bikes?

find one of the above frames that fits you with NO spacers under the stem, it will really stiffen up the front end.

Hey, I have a buddy that had a Cervelo R3 and sold it because it was just too stiff. He bought a 585 and loves it.

So, if you are out for the stiffest available, you should test the R3.

I have to say here, from experience on lots of high end frames recently. My favorites are the 585 and both my DeRosa's. "Odd couple" as favorites, I know, as the DeRosas ride quite differently than the Look, in fact, the two DeRosas have very different riding characteristics with the Dual (alloy and carbon, light, steep) being the better climber and quicker accelerator and the King being just a great ride. The Look tops em, taking the best traits of both those DeRosas and doing it better, but in a very different feeling way..

If you are looking at 'comfort', don't look at frames, look at the wheels..For instance, The DeRosa King (all carbon) is known for it's great ride..but put some Ksyriums and hard clinchers on it and it'll beat your a** up on rough roads. The Dual and the 585 are supposed to be "Stiff" frames, "Harsh but high performance" I've seen said..Well, yes and no, depending on which wheels you put on them. Lately I've been riding Zipp 303s on my Look, on tubular 22mm tires and the bike is smooth feeling. But, I stick on some Reynolds carbon wheels with a taller profile rim and fewer spokes and the ride is noticably more 'buzzy' more 'rattley'..I bet with Ksyriums, it'd rattle your teeth. So, yah, there is a difference in frame comfort..but not nearly what you feel if you simply use different wheels..People go on and on about Steel's magic ride quality and how 'buttery-smooth" a Ti frame rides..Blah blah..Wheels make the most difference for comfort...
Don Hanson

In all honesty, I don't care that much about comfort if it is going to be a killer sprint bike.

Handsomrob: Thanks, all go take a peek at the R3.