Dolan Seta
Picture: iced
Build 26/30
Material and Manufacturing quality 8/10
Paint and Finish 8/10
Weight 10/10
The Dolan Seta is the underground king of weight-weenie fixed gear bikes, and if you get the chance to own one, you should definitely seize it. With a frame weighing around 1.2-1.3kg, the Seta makes for an excellent base, whether you’re building a city bike, endurance track machine, or climbing monster. The paint has evolved from some cheesy graphics to a simple gloss black, though I’ve seen a few repainted versions that look ten times better. The classic Alpina fork is tight, but it has an aluminum column, so if you’re after the lightest build possible, you’ll probably want to upgrade. Luckily, finding a full carbon Alpina fork (it’s now an open mold) isn’t too difficult nor expensive.
Ride 18/30
Geometry and sizing 8/10
Versatility 4/10
Handling and comfort 6/10
The geometry is great, and even with a BB drop of 70mm, and the overall design stays tight and snappy. Don’t expect to fit anything larger than 28mm tires, and honestly, don’t even consider living in a place with bad roads. The layered carbon construction means every minor asphalt deformation will resonate straight into your bones. The bike feels fast and responsive, but I’ll admit, it gave me the impression that I’d snap it in half after hopping over the next sidewalk. It’s also a bike you can only crash once… One crack, and you’re pretty much done. Great for long rides or city riding, but only on reasonably good surfaces.
Value 19/30
Price 8/10
Availability 4/10
Used Market 7/10
First retailing at £800 in 2009, finding a Dolan Seta today is actually pretty doable. Finding one in good overall condition, however, is another story. That said, many second-hand Seta frames you’ll come across are often loaded with weight-weenie carbon parts that you can sell to recoup some of your investment. I’ve heard more than one story of people essentially getting a “free Seta” that way. (Myself included)
SSS Factor 8/10
No regrets selling mine, and I had a lot of fun while I had it. That is, until the day I followed some friends on a “road map” that led me through forests and an endless number of roots. Sold it the next day.
