Dedacciai has a legendary reputation for quality tubing and components, and now the Italian company is producing its own range of race frames, with the Assoluto available as a complete bike at a very competitive price for the level of equipment it carries. Built around a carbon monocoque main frame and Deda’s own Surf fork, the Assoluto is finished with a full complement of Campagnolo Centaur 10, complete with the new Carbon Power-Torque chainset, Deda’s own bar, stem and seatpost, and the mid level Campag Vento wheelset.
The frame’s mix of box section tubing and curved shapes certainly gives it a distinctive look, complete with backswept fork legs à la Pinarello. The big box section down-tube and oversized chainstays, together with the stout-legged fork, create a very solid chassis, while the narrow, squared-off seatstays and slim, curved top-tube offer the potential for buzz-absorbing flex.
Out on the road the Assoluto’s ride matches its oversized looks: it feels solid and purposeful, yet with some cushioning from the seat-tube. The integrated seatpost (ISP) might make saddle height adjustment pretty minimal, but the frame’s compact triangles mean there’s plenty of unsupported seat-tube that offers some flex, helping to cushion your rear on rougher roads.
The Vento wheels have Campagnolo’s 25mm deep medium profile rim, mated to decent quality, well sealed hubs with a distinct three-spoke grouping in a radial pattern. While these look pretty different to any other wheels, they’re laterally stiff and plenty tough enough. Being shod with Vittoria’s Open Corsa Evo tyres lifts these hoops to top-level performers – the combination of smooth, supple roll and tenacious grip makes the Evo one of our favourite tyres.
What the Assoluto lacks in zing it makes up for with complete competence at getting the job done. Handling is neutral, the ride smooth and power transfer decent, the wheels are good, the tyres are great and the shifting is crisp from the Centaur 10-speed, upgraded carbon chainset and Ergo levers. It’s all finished off with quality contact points in the form of Deda’s RHM bar and a flat but comfy Selle saddle. In all, it’s a sweetly confident, rewarding ride and the clever spec adds up to a great Italian bike.
