Well, we were lucky to get Christine Thorburn’s Team Webcor, Orbea Dama Race with the Shimano Durace 10 speed component group for this review. I myself own this same frame, which I built up with “Shimano Ultegra” Components. It was really exciting for me to see this frame perform with entirely different components.

The Dama climbs with power and descends with grace. Need I say more? Probably not, but we should make this review semi-official.

This bicycle is one of the answers to women’s needs, if the fit is right. I have super long legs and a tiny torso and the geometry of the Dama seems to work well with this build. The shorter top tube allows for a more comfortable ride, the Zeus carbon fiber rear triangle really absorbs those rough spots and the performance is wonderful. The Columbus Altec Aluminum tubing provides the frame with strength when climbing and precision when descending. The Zeus carbon fiber fork allows absorption of those little bumps on the road.

The tested bike happens to have Easton carbon handlebars, which add even more shock absorption. It was like riding the Cadillac of bicycles. The Durace shifting is very smooth and efficient, the breaking is solid and powerful, not to mention how sharp the Hollowtech integrated crank-arm looks. When buying the complete bike you do have the option of Shimano Ultegra, Shimano Durace, or Campagnola Chorus components.

This bike performed incredibly well on long hill climbs, curving decents, and on fast flat distances. If the fit is right you will love this bike in any condition. As a woman I cannot hold back from saying how great the paint jobs are. I admit that look is important. I love my pretty blue bike. What I love even more is that this bike has performance and fit backing up its beauty.
I am a firm believer in getting the right bike fit. Some shops offer professional bike fits for $125-200. Ask your local bike shop. This is an important step is comfort and performance.
You may not NEED a women specific bicycle. A road bike is an investment, it lasts for a long time, be sure to get the fit right. For more on proper bike fit please read the article “Is Your Body Women’s Specific?” in the cycling section.

The price point version of this bike is the Dama Mitis. The women’s specific frame geometry is the same. The frame materials are different. The choice in drive train components remain the same. This bike is an amazing entry level race/recreational bike.

Here is the price break down:

Dama Race

• Shimano Ultegra Components: $2799
• Shimano Durace Components: $3399
• Campagnola Chorus Components: $3199

Dama Mitis

• Shimano Ultegra Components: $1999
• Shimano Durace Components: $2699
• Campagnola Chorus Components: $2399