The Rapide C96 is made from superlight, triple-butted aluminium tubing coupled to a carbon rear triangle.
The welds are polished and look good under the 'ScotchBright' finish, and the overall understated styling works very nicely with the inclusion of the carbon rear stays.
The frame itself is complimented by a set of Ambrosio's A8C carbon forks to round off the package and provide welcome vibration damping at the front end to match that gained from the carbon stays at the back.
The C96 uses a 'semi-sloping' geometry rather than an extreme compact design, and offers a compromise between the affordability of aluminium and the long-ride comfort of carbon.
Add to this some smooth, Italian chic Campagnolo Veloce gearing and Ambrosio's own caliper brakes and the result is an easy, smooth, light weight ride ideal for training, fitness and long distance sportives.