Today, we find on trial a model from a French brand that you know well. Indeed, I had already had the opportunity to test no less than 3 different models of the manufacturer Look, and in particular the previous version of 795 Blade RS, a machine cut out for the plain. So this is the new version of 795 Blade RS that I will present to you today, in its new chameleon color. A version that made a lot of talk when it was released for its many improvements, which obviously sharpened my curiosity. Without further ado, I give you all my impressions on this jewel. Let's go !
Much more than a makeover
The previous version was already excellent, with performance and comfort very consistent with its price range. For this new version 2021, Look made it big, and did not content itself with modifying a few aesthetic details to renew its range. Indeed, the appearance of new colors, and in particular this absolutely magical Chameleon, is far from the only modification. Because if the overall design remains very close to the old version overall, with its wide frame, its specific shrouds or its aero handlebar, this Blade RS seems to have taken a real step forward. The version shown here was equipped as last year with a Sram Red ETap Axs group 12 speeds, no change on that side. At the wheels, the Mavics have been replaced by a pair of Corima 47 WS Disc, which already equipped the 785 Boo RS Disc during my test last summer. So I found a known material, which significantly facilitated the testing phase.
The Blade RS goes on a diet, 300g lost !
The biggest improvement is the weight loss achieved at the frame level thanks to the work on the materials.. And there, it is heavy, or rather light, very light even, because the frame shows no less than 300g of lost compared to the previous version ! Record weight loss which shows the builder's willingness to work on this point, which was one of the quite annoying aspects of the old version, with the already substantial weight of the discs. The Nivernais manufacturer therefore used new processes to increase the proportion of high modulus carbon fiber present in the frame., while reducing the number of carbon layers required for equivalent rigidity. A small technological feat which makes it the most efficient model of the brand. Here, we find a much lighter machine, with a frame at only 1kg, which passes the reliefs a little more easily. The old version was already very versatile for an aero model, but the version 2021 now displays real qualities on hilly courses, which clearly increases the possibilities in terms of route. It goes without saying that a few personal bests fell during this test., and especially on my most difficult circuits. We find ourselves handling a very versatile machine, which adapts very easily to changes in terrain, and which allows you to go at full speed on the flat as well as to cross hills at a frantic pace. Once again, the more moderate paces are also very well managed by this Blade RS, who can lean on his shrouds “3S Design” to offer very interesting performance and comfort. The dynamic behavior of the bike is also improved, with interesting maneuverability and even greater stability against the wind.
My opinion
Generally, I am very surprised by the improvements made. I had already greatly appreciated the previous version for its balance between performance and comfort, but the version 2021 seems to have taken a real step forward at this level, with increased versatility which makes it a particularly formidable all-purpose frame on the most intense efforts. The behavior in descent and at very high speed remains very good, and the disc braking fulfills its role perfectly by providing an additional feeling of security. This disc mounting is much more justified on this new version, since it does not make the bike too heavy thanks to the ultra light frame. The behavior of the bike is therefore excellent, and we feel at ease whatever the work to be done, ranging from the most leisurely outings to interval or speed sessions. So what remains to be improved on this flagship of the French brand ? Not much to tell the truth. In terms of performance, dynamism and comfort, the contract is more than fulfilled. The small details that can tarnish this almost perfect copy are found in particular in the parts that equip the frame., and in particular the seat post. Already mentioned in this sense during the previous test, I didn't notice any real improvement in the seat post, whose tightening system remains quite difficult to understand and always causes small rather unpleasant creaks during tightening. The lighter runners may not be bothered by this detail, but a large size like me can quickly see this kind of inconvenience appear. A detail, but which remains quite annoying on a bike of this level. Rest, the whole is well thought out, and the brand's know-how is felt. The price is totally justified for a model of this level, which offers high performance, especially at high intensity. The Sram Red eTap AXS and its 12 speeds are welcome, and the disc braking finds its place better in this configuration than on the previous version, who could sometimes suffer from his rather heavy weight. A new very successful version therefore, which allows me to come out very satisfied with this test. Let’s not forget the design either, one of the strengths of this bike, with which we obviously do not go unnoticed.
I loved
- The design and especially the color, very successful
- Efficiency and dynamism
- The big drop in weight of the frame
I least liked
- The seat post still quite average, with a fixing system not yet level with the rest of the frame
Note
9/10
Technical sheet
Mark : Look
Model : 795 Blade RS Disc
Colors : Chameleon Mat Glossy
Wheels : Corima 47 WS Black Dx Disc
Tires : Victory Corsa Graphene 2.0
Transmission : Sram Red eTap AXS 12 Speeds
Weight : 7,6 kg (size L, with pedals)
Price : 10 499 €
