A few questions about the Silvio & Vendetta

[Bob10]

I am planning for a Cruzbike build sometime in the Winter, and am using the next 4-5 months to try to get the answers to questions about model choice and the build. I was initially looking at the Silvio, though plan to at least consider the Vendetta as well. The folks on this Forum are incredibly helpful and supportive, with an incredible depth of knowledge. I really appreciate the posts I've searched for, and those who have responded to my initial inquiries.

Before I post I typically search the wealth of information in the Archives.....however it is likely I may be entering the wrong Search words. I apologize ahead of time for asking questions that have been already answered many times.

Silvio vs Vendetta:
Some have stated they feel no significant difference between these bents in terms of the effect of the surface of the road and rider comfort. Others say the Silvio build will do a better job at absorbing the road shock. I am thinking that with Ric Youngblood's seat, that a Vendetta may also be an option for me to also consider. Other than riding them both, do you have any suggestions on factors to look into or questions for me to ask myself to get the "answer" that is right for me?

Am I correct in thinking that the Vendetta will likely have a lower BB than a Silvio (S30). My preference is to choose a model with the lower BB, and also be able to vary the seat angle. I like the lighter weight of the Vendetta. Has anyone used Ric Youngblood's variable seat on a Vendetta?

If you have ridden both, what would you see as the pluses and minuses of each model?
Many thanks folks....
Bob

 

[Bruce B]

Bob 10,
I have had a red V20 Vendetta since November 2014. I initially used the carbon fiber seat and Ventisit seat pad from Cruzbike. I was never able to find a really satisfactory neckrest position that was comfortable for me because of my height (5'6" or 168cm) so I changed to the Thor seat and Ventisit pad that Rick Youngblood so highly praised. For a neckrest I ordered the newest edition by Ice (Inspired Cycle Engineering.) Together this combination has been just perfect for me.

 

[Jeremy S]

Am I correct in thinking that the Vendetta will likely have a lower BB than a Silvio (S30).

I don't see why. The stock Silvio used to have a lower BB because the chainstay was shorter. Now the Silvio and Vendetta appear to have the same chainstay, so I would expect the BB height to come out about the same.

 

[Bob10]

I don't see why. The stock Silvio used to have a lower BB because the chainstay was shorter. Now the Silvio and Vendetta appear to have the same chainstay, so I would expect the BB height to come out about the same.

After reading a bunch of postings and looking at the BB specs for each bike I came up with that conclusion....
I appreciate your response to help clarify this....exactly the reason why I am asking these question.
Many thanks Jeremy....

 

[joy]

I have an S30 with front shock and, a V20. Boy, it's hard to say which I like better. I change from day to day. I have been riding the Silvio when going out with friends. It is a little more comfortable because of the higher recline, and, for me, a little easier to get around people and bumps on the bike path. On an open section of the path, or a roadway where you can get your speed up, it is a little harder to keep up with my husband on his Encore. The Vendetta is faster. People have said a couple mph, and I think that is about right for me. I have cut the headrests on both about 2" (I am 5'7"). I have the Silvio dialed in, but the V still needs a little work. I have a Ventisit on the Silvio and a Bacchetta foam with cover on the V. I think the foam with cover is more comfortable. I slide around a bit on the Ventisit. If I could only have one, and were able to configure Rick's adjustable seat, I think I'd get the Vendetta, especially since the new Silvio doesn't have the front shock. Faster.........is a big draw. As always, it depnds on what you are looking for. You really can't go wrong wih either. Good luck!

 

[super slim]

After reading a bunch of postings and looking at the BB specs for each bike I came up with that conclusion....
I appreciate your response to help clarify this....exactly the reason why I am asking these question.
Many thanks Jeremy....

Don't keep us in suspense!!!
Which Cruzbike are you going to buy??

 

[Robert O]

I have a V20, stock seat pan, Ventisit "Comfort" pad, modified neckrest (sectioned out about 1" of the "vertical" section of the tubing, I'm about 5' 6"). The Ventisit soaks up normal road and chipseal vibration pretty well, you just watch for bigger bumps. One thing I lack is the option of using a bus bike rack; my old highracer had a 43.5" wheelbase, and that was at the absolute limit for the local buses. I can still pack the V20 on the commuter train or the light rail here, but I don't have that option anymore. The Silvio would fit those racks fine. I do love the V20's cruising speed, though.

 

[Bob10]

I have a V20, stock seat pan, Ventisit "Comfort" pad, modified neckrest (sectioned out about 1" of the "vertical" section of the tubing, I'm about 5' 6"). The Ventisit soaks up normal road and chipseal vibration pretty well, you just watch for bigger bumps. One thing I lack is the option of using a bus bike rack; my old highracer had a 43.5" wheelbase, and that was at the absolute limit for the local buses. I can still pack the V20 on the commuter train or the light rail here, but I don't have that option anymore. The Silvio would fit those racks fine. I do love the V20's cruising speed, though.

It seems that the Silvo with a Ric Youngblood seat seems to be the best bet for me.
Thanks all for your responses.
bob