New colors and a lower price for 2013 the 566 still has the same great ride quality with a new look and at better value. Also shipping is always free on bikes in the USA and we are able to do any customization you might want.
2013 Look 566 Shimano Ultegra Bike $2799
2013 Look 566 Shimano 105 White Bike $2299
2013 Look 566 Shimano 105 Black Bike $2299
Almost everything I had read about the Look 566 was a statement about comfort. Immediately, my mind slips to the dark side and I ask: how fast is it? Some very enjoyable test miles delivered a unexpected verdict.
2013 Look 566 Shimano Ultegra Bike $2799
2013 Look 566 Shimano 105 White Bike $2299
2013 Look 566 Shimano 105 Black Bike $2299
Almost everything I had read about the Look 566 was a statement about comfort. Immediately, my mind slips to the dark side and I ask: how fast is it? Some very enjoyable test miles delivered a unexpected verdict.
Every year bikes have become lighter and stiffer which is great for the professional but not for everyone, Look have bucked this trend with the 566. What sets the 566 apart is the pronounced shaping of the frame. It's unlike any other, with the X-chainstays, the kink in the top tube, the beefy square down tube and sloping geometry. All of which is intended to offer a comfortable and predictable ride to the sportif rider without losing any of the competitive edge needed for a good road bike.
I found this to be true but the 566 was still very much a race bike. After 20+ years of bike building I guess the guys at Look could not build anything but a race bike.
The ride. As expected it's a smooth, predictable ride but not as smooth as described be others. On longer rides I did feel the forgiveness of the rear triangle pay dividends. But, for the most part it reminded me of older steel bikes I have owned in years past. Lively and responsive, not by todays pro tour standards. More in tune with my weekend warrior ability's. The look 566 was able to respond to anything I was able to dish out but it did not light up the road like a $10000 race machine. It seems to me at $3500 you get some comfort and some performance but you don't hit 10/10 for either. To get a bike to deliver comfort and performance at the highest level you have to pay literally twice as much.
I was very pleased to spend a few weeks riding this bike and really liked the look of the bike. I was not as thrilled to give it back. It's a head turner if you are into bikes, to me it still looks very much like a traditional road bike. It has something very classy about it. I tried to imagine where it would fit into my stable. It's a little to swanky for a training bike and not exactly the bike I would want to be racing crits with. But the bike could handsomely cover all the bases if it was an only child. If 5+ hour centuries were the goal this would be the perfect bike.
More about the ride. Out of the saddle it feels a little fishy. Yes as in "fish tail". But it keeps it's line very well when driving in the saddle, it corners well and it's an above average descender. The 27.2mm seatpost extended far out on my size medium (I'm 5'10"). This adds to the ride comfort but takes away from the overall handling. If you are tall lets say over 6'2" and over 200lbs this might not be the bike for you because of the extended post.
The 566 is not exactly a lightweight bike, just over 18lbs for my test bike. The weight is pretty much in line with the performance, not going to hold you back on the average group ride but not the machine that will carry you to a fast hilly 100. Swapping the wheels would solve the weight issue.
The build. Shimano Ultegra 6700 is a perfect match for the Look 566. Both frame and group seem to have similar characteristics. The FSA bars, stem and seatpost are a nice touch and the Fizik Arione is just gravy on top. The bike is well finished with Look bar tape and color coordinated Jagwire housing. Nothing on this bike needs to be upgraded. It's ready to go as is and includes Look Keo Classic pedals. The Fulcrum Racing 5 wheels are solid performers, but an upgrade to some race wheels really takes the 566 into another league. I rode a few weeks with some Ritchey Carbon Super Logic Clinchers and got to appreciate the 566 even more. The Ritchey wheels with tires and tubes cost almost as much as the complete bike.
With that said the 566 is not a bike for an elbows to the line sprinter but it's a fast race bike that is perfect for longer rides, comfortable for everyday riding and fast enough for the A group on any Saturday ride. In 2 words: Value, Class.
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2011 566 bikes on sale - see the links below. |
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Sale Price $2,279.05 | |
Sale Price $2,279.05 |
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Sale Price $2,849.05 | |
Sale Price $2,278.10 |
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Posts
41 comments:
Great review as usual. I came this close *holding my Thumb and forefinger up* to getting one of these, although I only test rode one around the Car Park. But it's an awesome Bike for the money. Great for Saturday morning rides and Centuries, which is what 85% of us use our Bikes for, right?
The LOOK name is legendary and even though it's not made in France it still looks like a $7k Bike at first glance. For me it was a toss-up between this Bike and the Pinarello FP3.
It would be awesome if you Guys coule find the time to do a side-by-side review of Bikes in this price range. In this economy I'm sure they're getting very popular. Trickle-down technology from some of the Industries finest.
How would you compare the Look 566 to say the new Scott CR1 or the Pinarello FP3. Wife is looking for a new road bike this year to replace a Cannondale CAAD5.
The Pinarello is perhaps a smoother ride. The 566 more comfortable and forgiving. The Scott is a great bike but not up this standard.
Thanks Mr. Clive for another nice review, and some great pictures. I'll love to 2nd the motion that Mr. PeterUK said about having a comparison of this price range. I bought a Look 566 last summer, and really there was nothing else that could touch it in it's class/price point, I paid $2500 for the Rival version, the other competitor was a Madone 5.2, for $800 more. Prices have increased on the Look this year from what I'm seeing. You guys at Glory offer many awesome frame lines and most of them have stepped up to the plate this year to offer some competition to the Look. Such as the EMX-1, EMX-3 by Merckx, the FP3 by Pinarello, the new CR1 by Scott, the Colnago ACE all seem to be aimed at a similar customer at comparable pricing.
I ride a Look 585 Pro Team, and suggest it covers the bases quite admirably. I recently completed La Vuelta de los Neuve Faros (Puerto Rico)... Almost 380 miles & 12K-ft of climbing over three days, and felt just fine... I've got a Serotta HSG-IT for < 50 miles, and the Look for all other riding. Get one - you won't be sorry.
Thanks for an excellent review Clive! I am seriously considering a 566 and am also 5'10. It looks like there is quite a lot of seatpost showing as well as lots of headset spacers on your test bike - presumably required for you to comfortably fit. Do you think I might be better of with the large (55cm) frame, especially because I am getting old and stiff, and want to reduce my saddle to bar drop substantially compared to my current Tarmac?
I felt the bike fit me very well in size Medium, It came stock with a 100mm stem and the FSA bars have a short reach, like this it was a perfect fit. The post is quite extended but seems to work best like this.
I think a Large would be too long in the top tube for you.
Clive, it looks like the Large sports a 55.8cm effective top tube. I'm curious why you feel that would be too long for someone 5'10"??? I ask because that's also my height and the size I'm considering.
55.8cm on the Large and 54.2cm on the Medium, the difference is 1.6cm
I am 5'10 and used a 10cm(100mm) stem on the medium. The Large would have had me riding a 8 or 9cm stem. This would not have been optimal. Also the reasonably extended seat post performed the way it was intended. Look intentional built the frame with this slope and used the 27.2mm seat post to make it more forgiving but keep the rear stiff.
You might be more flexible or have a longer reach than I do so might need to go longer than me even though we are the same height. You need to establish just how long. If you were to say need a 12cm on the medium then you might be better going Large with a 10cm.
Hope this helps, call me if you want to go over it.
BTW - I want to sell the demo bike, it's in perfect condition.
Nice thorough review and photos. Google brought me here in search of an answer about the Look 566. Looking to buy a 2009 Rival gruppo model but hear that anyone over 6'2" might be too big for their largest XL frame. I am 74" tall and ride an old 60cm (24" c-c) steel frame bike that was custom built for me. It has an effective top tube of 22" (55.8). Any advice about this sizing would be appreciated.
Thank you for the compliment.
At 6'2" you would fit the XL and it would be longer than the custom you have (effective TT is 57.4cm) However you would have a pretty well extended seat post. This might not be a problem but do the calculation against your current height and the Look geo chart before you buy.
Here is a link to the geo chart: http://tinyurl.com/yh42uu5
Perhaps look at the Pinarello FP3 Shimano 105 bikes, we have them for $2500
Clive, thanks very much for reply and suggestions. I looked at the FP3 since I am familiar with them from my LBS days in the early 80's. Looks as though there are none in my size with 105 and sadly, the others are beyond my price point. Is it the slope of the top tube that forces the seat post up on the Look as compared to the Pinarello of the same size? Noticed they are both 57.5cm.
I feel that the Look 566 would be the perfect frame if it were only a bit taller. Your review confirms the comfort, stability and firmness so many like about this bike frame.
BTW. Do people purchase $2-4K bikes without riding them? Like the thought of riding something other than the conventional fare sold locally but like to at least see/ride them in person.--Gary
I suggested the Pinarello because of it's traditional geometry and it has a 31.6mm over sized post that would support you a lot better than the sloping geometry 27.2mm of the Look.
We often sell bikes in this price range without test ride. That is one of the big reasons we do the reviews on this blog. Many of our customers are looking for something a notch up from what they can access locally.
Great review. I'm 5"5 and was thinking that the small would be the right fit for me. What do you think?
I think you are right between the XS and the small, e-mail me at clive@glorycycles.com
I could help you work out exact size but I need more info.
I am 5'10" and have a 2009 Medium Look 566. It fits me perfect. My inseam is between 30-31" and the 566 falls into place without any discomfort. The saddle on my 2009 is a Selle Italia XO and it will be replaced soon as it's not very comfortable. I might try the Fizik Arione that's on the 2010 to see if that helps. Otherwise, I foresee quite a few centuries with the bike.
Good review and pictures, Clive.
How would you compare the Trek Madone 5.2 versus the Look 566? Any comments on the wheels.
Thanks
I have not ridden the Trek Madone 5.2 so cannot say about the ride but if it comes down to the build kits of the 2 bikes I would not expect the generic Bontrager parts to be better than FSA and Fizik on the Look.
If style points count the Look also has a leg up on the Trek IMHO
Fulcrum wheels are fantastic for wheels in the category, they are made by Campagnolo and have the dynamic balance feature which makes for a smooth ride. Campagnolo bearings are smooth and reliable as well, weight is not a strong point however. The Fulcrum racing 5's are not exactly race wheels.
At the end of your review, you say that a good set of wheels will take this bike into another league. Realistically, I'll probably never be able to justify the cost of a set of Ritchie Super Logic Clinchers. Would a set of clinchers in the sub-$1000 range be a great upgrade from the Fulcrums, or not really? If so any suggestions?
There are only a few clinchers under $1K that would be a significant upgrade.
American Classic Hurricanes if you are a larger rider, American Classic 350's if you are going to be climbing a lot "white ones would be awesome" I would do this at no additional cost.
If you are looking for deeper aero wheels Mavic Cosmic Carbone SL's or Reynolds Assaults are $1200 and $1500 - Also do a great deal here.
I have another sizing question... I am about 72" tall with long torso/short arms/31 inseam. I prefer a shorter reach than you average rider probably due to the short arm thing. Would the Medium be too small for me?
I think the Medium will be too small. Your saddle will be very high on a medium and you might find the steerer needs to be very high as well. I suggest the Large.
Fortunately the handlebars have a short reach. If you purchased from Glory Cycles we would give you the option to swap the stem for a shorter one.
I am a 5'9" woman (classic issue - long legs short torso) trying to decicde between the look 566 and pinarello FP# ultegra for women; since i don't have access to ride both, any thoughts? price is quite similar - ...any thoughts?
It's so hard to call one over the other but I think the Pinarello is going to work better because of your longer legs.
The traditional geometry will have the seat post not as far out. I could help with more exact virtual sizing and calculate what frame size and stem length you would need as well as how far it would have the post in relation to the headtube.
Clive,
This is way off the subject but you seem like a way cool guy to take the time and answer random questions for people. Plus you have a sweet name:) Okay, are you located in SC? I am in Utah but would totally buy from you b/c of your obvious commitment and genuineness towards others. Plus, I have contacted a few bike shops in Salt Lake City that use to carry Look but stopped b/c they told me they could never get bikes in and it became a hassle; they never ripped on the quality though. I had my heart set on the Wilier Izoard for months (had to put off my purchase due to damn taxes) and then I came across the Look 566. I am bummed b/c I though after months of research I had it all figured out. This would be my first road bike as I have always been a MB. I am athletic so I know I will pick this up quickly and I am super excited for just not the thrill but for the cardiovascular workout I desperately need. In your humble opinion Look or Wilier?? SRAM Rival vs Ultegra? For the price increase is the Ultegra worth an extra $500-600? I'm 5'6 with normal inseam for my height but a shorter torso. I'm thinking a small. I am super excited to hear back from you as this a huge thing for me and my future... Thanks Clive, Shane
Hey Clive,
Also the Cervelo RS? I forgot to throw that in the mix of things. So Wilier Izoard vs Look 566 vs Cervelo RS. I appreciate you looking over my last post as I asked several questions.
I just saw a video on u, where you from?
Shane
Thanks for the kind words Shane, I am from South Africa and have been in the US for 11 years now.
Between the Wilier and the Look it's almost an even match. I like the way the Look is built and prefer the overall look of the Look.
My advise would be go with the one that appeals to you and don't get lost in trying to work out which of the two is a better bike.
Clive,
I serve a mission for my church in Johannesburg South Africa. I spent two years there. Beautiful country all around.... I'm leaning towards the Look. Clive, what am I looking at cost wise? Rival vs. Ultegra. I can't exactly ride a Look around here as no one carries one. The same goes for Wilier (5 hours away)..... I need to just pull the trigger....let me know, Thx Shane
Clive,
Really appreciate the review. I just returned from riding the 566. I'm 6'4 210lb. Found the bike to be as you described. Not clear on what the concern is around the seat to handlebar is, although I did notice a lot more forward /frontward downward feel -should I be concerned - I found it exciting and more aggressive as a result. No noticeable impact to standing when climbing. I went to a shop to ride the Izardo, but they didn't have any in my size. I see you see them similar. Any preference between the two for my size - I really liked how the look performed, but prefer the Izardo look. Thanks, Scott
My concern with the 566 and a rider 6'4" is that the 27.2mm seat post would be very far extended and quite flexible when driving in the saddle and cornering. Maybe I am just splitting hairs but thats the purpose of such a review.
I would suggest the Wilier but above both i would recommend the Eddy Merckx EMX3 for you.
Clive, ditto on all the comments. This is the most honest feedback I have seen on the web so thank you. Question for you, I am getting into cycling after 15 years on a MB. Want to spend around 2k and have tested about 8 different bikes per buying tips...and I have narrowed it down to 3; Scott CR1 Team, Cannondale Synapse 5 CB, and Look 566. All three have 105 grouping. I prefer the geometry of these bikes vs a more race suitable bike. All 3 of these bikes feel very similar, but the Cannondale is 300 less then the others. I am 5'10 and road the Look L today and it felt great, much better then other 54's I tried. I plan to ride a couple of times a week, an occasional race and 2-3 centuries per year. Trying to decide tomorrow so I can get riding. Guidance? Thank you for the help.
Scott
There are so many bikes it's hard to get a real comparison on them.
I like the Eddy Merckx EMX 1 very much in this price and component range. Take a look at the review on my blog.
I have that demo bike I would sell for $1850?
Clive, I was sold on the Look 566 until I seen your review on the Eddy Merckx EMX. Both bikes look great cosmetically but now I am at another loss. I am looking for both comfort and speed. I'm 5'6 and athletic. Is it just one of those things where I toss a coin in the air--am I comparing apples to apples here? I absolutely loved the Look 566 but I want to make sure I'm not short changing myself either. I have not really heard about the Eddy Merckx. Please ease my feeble little brain. I will most likely not test ride either before I buy. I appreciate your honesty and sincerity with this. I look forward to hear from you. Thanks Clive.
Shane
Hey Clive,
Sorry to bother you so much but I was also wondering if you had a white/blue Look 566 for sale and in stock? I don't care if it's a demo or used. I'm thinking I need a size small. I'm 5'6". After seeing your pics I can't of the blue/white I can't seem to get that color scheme out of my mind...Let me know. Cheers. Shane
Sorry Shane this one is already sold, contact me at clive@glorycycles.com
We will always work out the best possible price on one. We offer free shipping and a price match.
Clive,
Like others have said, great review. I'm a mtn. biker, but want to get into road biking. The Look 566 really appeals to me. What size would fit my dimensions? I'm 172cm, ~5'8" with a 30" inseam and wear 33" sleeve shirts. Also, given my dimensions are there other bikes that would fit me better (e.g. Pinarello FP3 or EMX)?
Thanks,
Rob
Thanks for reading the blog, I would suggest the Look 566 Medium for you. The Small seems like it would be a little short.
I cannot think of any other bike that would necessarily fit better than the 566 in your case.
clive,
I am just geting into road cycling,the bike I am riding now is a Trek 2.1, i would like to upgrade this bike to something more comfortable and handle better.I'm looking at either a Specialized Roubaix Comp, the Look 566 and the Specialized Tarmc Comp.I like your review of the Look 566 what would be a best option? If I go with the Look what size should I choose Large or xLarge I am 6' tall with long torso. The Trek I have is a 58cm.Thank you
There has been a lot of questions about size with this bike, my guess for you is a Large but there are a few more considerations before you can be sure.
e-mail me at clive@glorycycles.com and we can get into it.
Dear Clive,
As all the others said thank you for a great review but mostly thanx for the honest replies. I am struggling to find the correct size for the 566. In fact I am struggling to find any bike that properly suits me. I like the relaxed geometry of the 566. I am 5 11" with 34" inseam and a bad back. Thank you in advance for your help.
I would put you on the size Large. You might find you will need to get a shorter stem as the Large comes with a 110mm - your back might be calling for a 90mm.
The Medium will have the post overextended with your 34 inseam.
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