I’ve been riding the Zinn since March. I started increasing my duration toward 600 mile plus months to get ready for the May 3rd 6 day 530 mile ride from Houston to New Orleans.
The bike fit is, I would have say, perfect. I spent a lot of time with Lennard to make sure the bike fit is optimum, since with internal routing and integrated handlebar it’s pretty much set once it’s built. The main issue was saddle height due to previous fits from two separate fitters. I had previous issues affecting my leg and back that I believe was due to improper fit. The way I see it is if Lennard’s custom build and fit is good enough for a Tour de France winner, it’s good enough for me.
While I got my Roubaix fit very close to the Zinn, there’s a big difference between a bike designed with long cranks for my fit and one jerry rigged into a fit with a long stem and extra stack spacers. The Zinn is very stable and I would feel comfortable descending a mountain as fast as I am able. I didn’t have that stability before. It’s also way more comfortable to get aero on the hoods and drops. I think that’s a function of the handlebar drop, reach, designed optimum CG, and the FSA handlebar being an excellent choice. It’s a big difference.
I had a little soreness getting used to the lightweight carbon SQLab saddle, but it’s not any worse than my old Specialized Power saddle that never was especially comfortable.
I’m noticing an increase in my average speed on rides, but need the power meter to see the detail of progression. I also really want the Lightning cranks because I’m basically propelling 2 extra pounds with the heavy cranks. It’s hard to quantify the difference proportional cranks make, but you can’t argue the logic behind them.
I mentioned to you that I spent 3 years studying bike geometry and every manufacturer’s stock bikes trying to get a replacement that met my goals of a comfortable, fast road bike. I could never satisfy myself that any stock bike would fit and ride optimally the way it should for me. I’m very satisfied and happy that the Zinn turned out exactly as what I wanted.
Mike