FAST BUT SMOOTH
The Contessa Speedster is like a gateway drug: perfect for your first century or club ride. For starters, Scott nailed the women-specific cockpit design. More important, whereas most aluminum bikes feel fast at first but irritate some riders with their rigid feel a few hours into the ride, the Speedster is surprisingly supple. Part of the reason is Scott’s hydroformed tubing, which is optimized for stiffness yet minimizes metal fatigue. And while it’s heavier than its carbon sisters, it’s respect颅ably light and well-priced. 20.4 lbs; scottusa.com