The Equilibrium was initially a Reynolds 725-framed classic road machine, then Genesis switched to its own Mjölnir steel tubeset, but now for 2018 the company has returned to using Reynolds mid-level 725 tubing.
What hasn’t changed is the classic British road-bike geometry. 72-degree head and 73-degree seat angles are all standard stuff, and the relatively low stack and long reach (vertical and horizontal distances from the bottom bracket to the top of the head-tube respectively) make the 20 a fairly racy proposition.
While the ride position is quite aggressive and the Reynolds 725 frame focuses on solidity. The big-volume Clément tyres help in the comfort stakes, making the Genesis a nice bike to spend time pedalling on, but it’s not the most exciting of rides. The handling is neutral and well balanced — the Disc 20 is never going to surprise you. Thanks to that neutral handling, however, it’s a very fine descender, with the Shimano hydraulic brakes offering loads of feedback, feel, and, of course, power.
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The drivetrain specification is decent for the money, with Shimano’s 105 taking care of the gear shifts in its usual solid, smooth and efficient style, with a racy combination of 52/36 and an 11-28 cassette.
I can’t help but think a bike with a 10.7kg overall weight would benefit from a slightly wider cassette, though. As 105 can handle the Froome-approved 11-30 cassette, that would be a better option than the 11-38 fitted to help on ascents.
Combining 105 with Shimano’s non-series 505 shifters and brakes means getting hydraulic braking. The STI units divide opinion, plenty dislike the bulbous, oversized hood section, but as I have larger hands it actually felt fine. The unit itself feels longer than a standard STI shifter, so you end up with a bit of extra reach, which is great if you like a long, low, aggressive position.
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I'm not sure the Equilibrium, with its rack and mudguard mounts and all-rounder potential, should feel quite so aggressive. Genesis has the legendary Volare and its carbon team bikes for the more race-orientated riders.
Overall, Genesis has nailed what makes a great, sporty sportive bike when it comes to frame shaping and geometry. On the flat or rolling terrain, the Disc 20 feels like a friend, and when you head downhill the sorted geometry, smooth yet grippy tyres, new shape Genesis bar (with tactile aero shaped top section and well-shaped compact drop), add up to a bike that’ll put a smile on your face.
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The Equilibrium has the potential to be a tourer with its complement of bolts and bosses, so if you’re trying to make the choice between race or recreation the Equilibrium is pretty close to both.