Which one? Kuota or Ridley

[Gusbang]

Looking to upgrade my current alu bike to something a bit nicer now I am doing regular long distance rides, my choice is a little limited because I want to buy from my LBS.

My choice is either a Kuota Kharma or a Ridley Orion, I am going for a ride on both of them hopefully next week if I have the time. If my choice was based on looks I would go for the Kuota.

I am sure most of you will say wait for test ride to decide but any additional advise will be usefull to help me decide.

[Kermit power]

Kuota = Very pretty!

Other than that, I have no experience of either, so am totally unequipped to comment.

[tjdixon911]

I've just recently got the Ridley, I think it's an awesome bike but have no experience of the other so can't comment on how it compares!

[MadDad]

I have a friend who has the Kharma and rates it highly. He did the rab on it last year with no dramas in relative comfort. I have not ridden it but it does look fantastic, mind you he can't keep up with me on my lowly alloy frame!