Stijn's ENVE Melee
The ultimate all-round racer
For my new road bike, I was looking for something special. A bike that just feels right. One that feels like it was truly made for me. After a lot of hesitation, I chose the ENVE Melee in the color Slipstream Pearl. Exciting, because I had only seen it on the screen. But when the frame arrived, I knew it was the right choice.
Why the ENVE Melee
It’s a bike that’s agile yet stable. A bike that’s fast, but still comfortable enough for a long day in the saddle. Exactly the mix I was looking for.
The frame: sleek, fast, clean
The Melee is aero, but doesn’t feel overly aggressive. It wants to go fast, but also corners without feeling nervous. The lines are super clean and the finish is excellent.
Build
ENVE SES Aero Pro One-Piece Bar
The ENVE SES Aero Pro One-Piece Bar keeps it tight: 100 mm stem and 38 cm wide. Everything is integrated — clean and sleek. What I especially like is how direct it feels. Just steer and go. The computer mount is nicely tucked away and completes the setup.
SRAM RED AXS 1×12
The setup is intentionally simple: no front derailleur. 1×12 with a 48T aero chainring and a 10–33 cassette. In the Netherlands, one chainring is more than enough — on my previous bike, the small ring was practically unused when I sold it. 48×10 is fast enough for descents and sprints, and 48×33 still climbs well when the road goes up. For my rides, this gearing range is just right. There’s also an upgrade: a power meter in the chainring. Because: data matters.
Wheels & tires
The wheels are ENVE SES 4.5’s: light, stiff, and fast. A perfect balance between aero and all-round. They hold their line well, even in crosswinds. A set you can ride anytime, anywhere. Tires: Vittoria Corsa 32 mm. Smooth, fast enough, and above all — comfortable. I notice it immediately on cobbles or rough tarmac: no bouncing, just smooth rolling.
Reform Seymour Carbon
Not many people know it yet, but I’m a fan: the Reform Seymour Carbon. What makes it unique is that you can heat the saddle and mold it to your sit bones. Sounds excessive? Maybe. But it works. No saddle pain — and on long rides, you really feel the difference.
Bottle cages
The bottle cages may seem like a small detail, but to me, that has to be right too. I chose the Arundel Mandible UD Gloss. Light, strong, and above all, they really hold your bottle — even on rough roads or cobblestones. The glossy carbon finish matches the frame perfectly.
Protection by BikeProtector
To keep my bike in perfect condition, I had it treated with coating and PPF by Dion from BikeProtector. No worries about stone chips, dull spots from shoe rub or bags. And cleaning? It’s never been this easy.
Ride feel
The first rides have been pure fun. The bike feels fast but not twitchy. It rolls smoothly, holds speed effortlessly, and responds instantly when you accelerate. Whether I go for a short ride or spend three hours on the road, the Melee stays stable, responsive, and comfortable. Everything just feels right.
