Question for Tom Demerley

KM40 vs. Litespeed Saber

Just checked out your website and was impressed…Would like your opinion: I’m riding a Trek Hilo 1000 now…Doing long course and want a comfortable ride. Have ridden the KM40 and loved the carbon ride…considering a Saber also , although I haven’t had a chance to ride it yet. I’m a middle of pack age grouper,40-45. My question is this. Considering I’m not a threat to qualify for kona in my age group (at least not for another 10 years or so!) which of these two would you recommend and/or your thoughts on both.

Thanks.

Hi Paul, Thanks for the question. Wow, two very, very different bikes but both with a tendency to fit longer torso riders. A catch to the KM40 is the size run: 52 and 56. Beware on those, the “name” of the size has little bearing on the actual dimension. If my memory serves me correctly the so-called “56cm” measures 58.5cm center to top with a 57cm. top tube center to center (off the top of my head). It is easy to mis-size these bikes and most people I see on them at races are on the wrong size. I know I always do this, and I apologize in advance- but I would stop comparing bikes and start comparing fit. They are both excellent bikes but very diffeent in fit. If you fit one it is somewhat unlikely you would also fit on the other as well. There will be one clear “best fit” for you. Also, don’t rely too heavily (at all) on a test ride. An accurate set of measurements will provide you with a more reliable basis for making a buying decision than a one hour test ride. Good Luck and Happy New Year.

Considering I’m not a threat to qualify for kona in my age group (at least not for another 10 years or so!)

Did you ever end up qualifying?

Considering I’m not a threat to qualify for kona in my age group (at least not for another 10 years or so!)

Did you ever end up qualifying?

Not random at all.

This has potential.

holy resurrection batman!

So will you bring this thread back in another 4600 days?

Talk to you in June of 2028

I haven’t done Kona since 1986. But you know the saying, “Anything is Possible”.

When doctors from Beaumont Healthcare System look at me now they can’t believe it. Nearly all of my vision is back, there is no loss of motor skill and no weakness. I’ve had no complications from surgery and the implant has functioned without flaw since it was installed.

An interesting note: When the cardiac implant was installed after my second hospital stay, when I was still in relatively bad condition, doctors said that the implant wasn’t tested or recommended for high heart rates. They could not predict how the cardiac implant would perform, if it would remain in place, if I might create more complications or even how my brain would react. Since then I’ve done a fair bit of (relatively, for a survivor) high level aerobic exercise. No problems (knock on wood). I did a very small triathlon about… three years ago and had a good race. Little local race, got 2nd overall and won my age category. It felt great.

Doctors tell me they have never seen a recovery like mine, but I imagine they say that to a lot of people who can walk, use their left side, remember their name and generally function.

I was absurdly lucky. Anything is Possible.