This is the aluminium version of the carbon Valerian race bike; and it has a similarly speedy profile, with dropped seatstays and a carbon fork. 

Titan Racing are known for cramming value into their bikes, and the Sport model is no exception. It has a surprisingly good Microshift R10 drivetrain, Tektro mechanical disc brakes, and good-quality alloy wheels shod in Vittoria Zaffiro tyres that will give you many happy miles before you have to replace them. 

One minor criticism is the gearing, which is quite aggressive for a beginner bike. The 50/34t chainrings are paired with a 10-speed 11-28t cassette – it would have been nice to see an 11-34t or even 36t option for some respite on the hills. 

That aside, the Valerian Sport is an uncomplicated, lightweight bike for riders who are new to the sport and maybe want to give the Cape Town Cycle Tour or Ride Joburg a bash. It pedals efficiently, it’s easy to service, and it’s built to last.

R17 990 / titanracingbikes.com

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