Published June 7, 2011 12:00AM

Specialized Amira Expert Bike
In a word, zippy. “It translated my leg power into pure forward momentum,”one tester said. Credit the carbon-fiber-framed Amira’s tapered headtube, which reduces flex and weight, and the strategically designed fork. Equipped with Shimano’s high-end Ultegra components, the Amira hits the sweet spot between stiff and flexible. If you’re toying with racing, there is no better choice. 16.2 lbs.