Why the Kelly Edge Touring A/S Could Be Your Next Tire Purchase: An In-Depth Review

Introduction to Kelly Edge Touring A/S

Kelly Edge Touring A/S is a Danish bicycle manufacturer that has been dedicated to producing high-quality touring bikes since its inception in 1992. Founded by avid cyclist and engineer, Lars Pedersen, the company was born out of a passion for long-distance cycling and a desire to create bikes that could withstand the rigors of extended tours.

Over the past three decades, Kelly Edge Touring has solidified its reputation as a leader in the touring bike market, known for its commitment to innovation, quality craftsmanship, and rider-centric design. The company’s bikes are meticulously engineered to provide a perfect balance of durability, comfort, and performance, ensuring that cyclists can embark on their adventures with confidence and ease.

While Kelly Edge Touring offers a range of bike models, their primary focus lies in the touring category, catering to cyclists who seek reliable and capable machines for long-distance journeys. From lightweight road tourers to sturdy off-road tourers, the company’s lineup is designed to meet the diverse needs of touring enthusiasts, whether they prefer paved roads or rugged trails.

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The Touring Bike Range

Kelly Edge offers a diverse range of touring bikes designed to cater to the needs of adventurous cyclists seeking reliable and capable companions for their long-distance journeys. Their touring lineup includes several models, each tailored to different riding styles, terrain preferences, and budget considerations.

The flagship model, the Kelly Edge Touring A/S, is a versatile and robust touring bike built to handle the rigors of extended tours on both paved and unpaved surfaces. Constructed with a lightweight yet sturdy chromoly steel frame, this bike offers a comfortable and stable ride, even when fully loaded with panniers and gear. It features a triple crankset for effortless climbing, wide-range gearing, and clearance for larger tires, making it well-suited for tackling steep inclines and navigating rough terrain.

For riders seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Kelly Edge Touring X is an excellent choice. While sharing many of the same touring-specific features as its higher-end counterpart, this model is built with an aluminum frame, making it slightly lighter and more affordable without compromising on performance or durability.

The Kelly Edge Touring E-Bike is a game-changer for those seeking a little extra assistance on their long-distance adventures. Equipped with a powerful yet efficient electric motor and a high-capacity battery, this touring bike allows riders to conquer challenging terrain and steep climbs with ease, extending their range and reducing fatigue over extended periods.

Across the range, Kelly Edge’s touring bikes are outfitted with a variety of touring-specific components, such as sturdy racks, fenders, and mounts for water bottles, panniers, and other accessories. The bikes are designed to accommodate a wide range of tire sizes, ensuring riders can choose the perfect setup for their intended terrain and riding conditions.

Frame Design and Construction

Kelly Edge takes great pride in their frame design and construction, utilizing high-quality materials and advanced techniques to create touring bikes that are both durable and comfortable for long-distance riding.

The frames are primarily constructed from double-butted chromoly steel tubing, which offers an excellent balance of strength, weight, and compliance. This material choice ensures that the frames can withstand the rigors of loaded touring while still providing a smooth and comfortable ride quality.

One of the standout features of Kelly Edge’s frame design is their proprietary “Edge-Tuned” geometry. This geometry is specifically tailored for touring, with a longer wheelbase, slacker head tube angle, and lower bottom bracket height. These geometric characteristics contribute to increased stability, predictable handling, and a more upright riding position, which is essential for long days in the saddle.

The frames are expertly welded using a combination of TIG and fillet-brazed techniques, ensuring a strong and precise joint construction. Kelly Edge’s skilled framebuilders take great care in their craftsmanship, resulting in frames that are not only structurally sound but also aesthetically pleasing.

To further enhance durability and touring capabilities, the frames feature numerous braze-ons and mounting points for racks, fenders, and other touring accessories. This attention to detail allows riders to easily outfit their bikes for fully-loaded adventures without compromising the frame’s integrity.

Overall, Kelly Edge’s frame design and construction showcase their commitment to creating touring bikes that prioritize durability, comfort, and versatility, ensuring that riders can confidently embark on their long-distance journeys with a reliable and capable steed.

Componentry and Build Quality

Kelly Edge’s touring bikes are built with a careful selection of high-quality components designed to withstand the rigors of long-distance cycling. The bikes feature reliable and durable groupsets from renowned manufacturers like Shimano and SRAM, ensuring smooth shifting and precise braking performance even after thousands of miles on the road.

The wheelsets are constructed with sturdy rims and high-spoke counts, providing excellent strength and resilience to handle heavy loads and rough terrain. The tires are designed for touring, offering puncture resistance and a comfortable ride on various surfaces.

The braking systems on Kelly Edge’s touring bikes are a standout feature. Depending on the model, you’ll find either powerful disc brakes or well-engineered rim brakes, both offering exceptional stopping power and modulation, even in adverse weather conditions.

Overall, the componentry on Kelly Edge’s touring bikes is carefully chosen to prioritize reliability, durability, and performance, ensuring that riders can tackle demanding tours with confidence and peace of mind.

Ride Quality and Comfort

Kelly Edge touring bikes are designed with the rider’s comfort and enjoyment in mind, even on long-distance journeys. The frames are constructed with a blend of steel tubing, providing a responsive yet smooth ride quality that dampens road vibrations. The geometry is tailored for an upright and relaxed riding position, reducing strain on the back, shoulders, and wrists.

The bikes come equipped with wide, high-volume tires that offer excellent traction and cushioning on various surfaces, from tarmac to gravel paths. The plush saddles and ergonomic handlebars further enhance comfort, allowing riders to maintain their preferred posture for hours on end without experiencing excessive fatigue.

While the touring bikes prioritize comfort, they don’t compromise on handling and stability. The longer wheelbases and low trail figures contribute to confident steering and tracking, even when fully loaded with panniers and gear. Descending and cornering feel planted and predictable, instilling a sense of control and confidence in the rider.

Overall, Kelly Edge touring bikes strike a remarkable balance between comfort and performance, making them well-suited for riders embarking on multi-day adventures or leisurely exploring scenic routes without sacrificing enjoyment or endurance.

Touring-Specific Features

Kelly Edge’s Touring A/S line is purpose-built for long-distance touring, with a host of features designed to make life on the road more comfortable and practical. One of the standout elements is the comprehensive braze-on mounts for front and rear racks, allowing you to carry all the gear you need for extended journeys.

The frames are also designed with full fender compatibility, ensuring you can stay dry and mud-free even in inclement weather conditions. This attention to detail extends to the tire clearance, which accommodates wider, more robust tires for improved traction and comfort on varied terrain.

Another touring-friendly feature is the gearing range, which is optimized for loaded touring. The wide range of gear ratios ensures you can tackle steep climbs with a fully loaded bike without sacrificing top-end speed on the flats. This versatility is essential for tackling the diverse landscapes and terrain you’re likely to encounter on a touring adventure.

Additionally, the Touring A/S line is designed with a longer wheelbase and stable geometry, providing a planted, confident feel when navigating rough roads or carrying heavy loads. This stability translates to a more comfortable and enjoyable ride, even after hours in the saddle.

Customer Service and Support

Kelly Edge Touring A/S is renowned for its exceptional customer service and unwavering commitment to supporting its customers throughout the entire ownership experience. The company prides itself on fostering long-lasting relationships with its clients, ensuring that every inquiry or concern is addressed promptly and professionally.

One of the key strengths of Kelly Edge Touring A/S is its comprehensive warranty coverage. All touring bikes come with a lifetime warranty on the frame and fork, providing cyclists with peace of mind and confidence in the durability and craftsmanship of their investment. Additionally, the company offers a two-year warranty on all components, ensuring that any manufacturing defects or issues are promptly addressed.

Post-purchase support is a top priority for Kelly Edge Touring A/S. The company maintains a dedicated team of knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives who are always available to assist with any questions, concerns, or maintenance queries. Whether you need guidance on bike setup, accessory recommendations, or troubleshooting advice, the support team is ready to provide personalized assistance.

Furthermore, Kelly Edge Touring A/S has established a network of authorized service centers across various regions, ensuring that customers have access to professional maintenance and repair services. These service centers are staffed by trained technicians who are familiar with the company’s products and can provide reliable and efficient service.

Customers consistently praise the company’s responsiveness and willingness to go the extra mile in resolving any issues that may arise. Kelly Edge Touring A/S understands the importance of cultivating a loyal customer base and prioritizes building trust and confidence through exceptional service and support.

Pricing and Value

Kelly Edge Touring bikes are positioned as a premium offering in the touring bike market. Their pricing reflects the high-quality materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and attention to detail that goes into each frame. While their bikes are not the most affordable option, they offer excellent value for the discerning cyclist seeking a top-tier touring experience.

Compared to other high-end touring bike brands, Kelly Edge’s pricing is competitive, and in some cases, even slightly lower. Their entry-level steel touring frame, for instance, is priced reasonably, considering the level of quality and the brand’s reputation. As you move up the range, the prices increase, but the bikes also boast more advanced materials, such as titanium or carbon fiber, and higher-end components.

What sets Kelly Edge apart is their unwavering commitment to delivering a superior touring experience. Their bikes are designed with the long-haul cyclist in mind, featuring robust construction, stable geometry, and a host of touring-specific features that enhance comfort, reliability, and practicality on extended journeys. The attention to detail in areas like rack and fender mounts, reinforced fork tips, and well-thought-out cable routing demonstrates Kelly Edge’s deep understanding of the unique demands of touring.

While the initial investment in a Kelly Edge touring bike may be higher than some mainstream options, the long-term value proposition is compelling. These bikes are built to last, with a focus on durability, serviceability, and the ability to withstand the rigors of life on the road. Additionally, Kelly Edge’s reputation for exceptional customer service and support adds to the overall value equation, ensuring that owners can rely on expert assistance and readily available spare parts, should the need arise.

In summary, while not the most budget-friendly option, Kelly Edge Touring bikes offer exceptional value for cyclists seeking a top-quality, purpose-built touring machine. Their premium pricing is justified by the superior materials, craftsmanship, and touring-specific features, backed by a brand known for its commitment to the touring community.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

– High-quality construction with durable steel frames and reliable componentry

– Designed specifically for touring with features like rack mounts, fender eyelets, and wide tire clearance

– Comfortable geometry and upright riding position for long days in the saddle

– Responsive and stable handling on varied terrain

– Wide range of gearing options suitable for loaded touring

– Customizable build options to suit individual needs and preferences

– Excellent value for the quality and touring-specific features

– Lifetime warranty on frames for added peace of mind

Cons:

– Limited color and style options compared to some other touring bike brands

– Steel frames can be heavier than aluminum or carbon alternatives

– Touring-specific features may be overkill for riders not planning extended tours

– Sizing can be tricky for those at the extremes of height ranges

– Customer service and support can be inconsistent in some regions

– Resale value may not be as strong as more well-known brands

Conclusion and Recommendations

After an in-depth evaluation of Kelly Edge Touring A/S bikes, it’s clear that they offer a compelling option for touring cyclists seeking a high-quality, purpose-built machine. With their meticulous attention to detail, robust construction, and thoughtful touring-specific features, these bikes are designed to withstand the rigors of extended journeys while providing a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience.

For cyclists planning multi-day tours or bikepacking adventures, a Kelly Edge touring bike is an excellent investment. The sturdy chromoly steel frames, coupled with reliable componentry and well-designed braze-ons, ensure a dependable and versatile platform that can handle heavy loads and challenging terrain. Additionally, the company’s commitment to customer service and support is commendable, providing peace of mind for riders embarking on remote adventures.

However, it’s important to note that Kelly Edge bikes come with a premium price tag, reflecting their high-end construction and specialized nature. While the cost may be justified for serious touring enthusiasts, recreational riders or those on a tighter budget may find more affordable options better suited to their needs.

In conclusion, if you’re in the market for a top-of-the-line touring bike and prioritize quality, durability, and comfort over cost, a Kelly Edge Touring A/S model should be at the top of your list. These bikes are meticulously crafted for the demands of long-distance cycling, offering a reliable and enjoyable ride that can take you on adventures near and far. With proper maintenance and care, a Kelly Edge touring bike can be a trusty companion for years to come, enabling you to explore the world on two wheels with confidence and style.