The Aurora is supposed to be No. 22's 90% race bike, and you can feel the race bike pedigree when you push a pedal down. Pure, reactive power transfer is awaiting every pedal stroke. The oversized titanium down tube, bottom bracket and chainstays culminating in internally reinforced dropouts combine to create a direct and playful energy on the road. The fun part is that you get this sensation whether you are pedaling at 10 mph during your rollout or at 28+ mph during a sprint.

Many titanium bikes corner fast and stable, only to hold half a beat as they sway into the apex before releasing a spring of energy to launch toward the exit. The Aurora, on the other hand, just keeps driving, and before you can comprehend that you've hit your apex, you're already lining up to the next. It's a sensational feeling I associate with better-made carbon race bikes, and it's a joy to find this experience on a titanium bike. The front end is so stiff and responsive that I had to remind myself to trust the Vittoria Corsa NEXT 28s and stop touching my brakes. Even in the wet, the Aurora allowed me to easily carve my way down Muir Woods' tight and twisting corners.