I don't normally write reviews, but this bike has honestly impressed me enough that I wanted to. Before buying it, I looked at bikes from Trek, Specialized, Canyon, Giant, and a bunch of other brands. The more I compared specs and prices, the more I kept coming back to the State Carbon Road. Now that I've put some miles on it, I can confidently say I made the right choice. This bike punches WAY above its weight class.

The biggest thing that stood out to me on the first ride was how responsive the frame feels. When you put power into the pedals, the bike just goes. It feels really stiff without beating you up, and climbing or sprinting feels effortless because it transfers power so well. It's one of those bikes that makes you want to keep pushing because it feels fast and eager to accelerate.

I also went with the SRAM Rival AXS groupset, and I've become a huge fan. This was my first electronic drivetrain, and my first SRAM groupset, and I was surprised by how easy everything was to set up. Pairing the derailleurs took just a few minutes, and once everything was adjusted, the shifting has been flawless. Every shift is quick and precise, and I don't think I'd want to go back to mechanical after using AXS.

As much as I love how the bike rides, my favorite part is still how it looks. I bought the purple version with the exposed carbon weave, and it is absolutely gorgeous. Seriously, the photos on the website don't come close to showing how good it looks in person. In the sunlight, the weave pops through the paint, and the purple has a ton of depth to it. It's easily one of the best-looking bikes I've ever owned.

What really surprised me is just how much bike you get for the money. It feels like something that should cost a lot more. You're getting a quality carbon frame, modern geometry, and the option to build it with high-end components without paying the premium that comes with one of the big-name brands. I never felt like I was settling by choosing State—in fact, I feel like I got a better deal than I would have with a lot of the bigger companies.

After riding it, I honestly have zero regrets. It's fast, comfortable, responsive, and every time I take it out, it puts a smile on my face. If you're considering a carbon road bike and don't want to spend a fortune just for a famous logo on the frame, I'd definitely recommend giving the State Carbon Road a look. It's an incredible value, rides like a dream, and looks even better than it performs—which is saying something.

I'm pleased with this bike so far, although I've been critical on the integrated bar hardware but that review is elsewhere. The frame is great, I really can't laud enough how that purple carbon looks in sunlight. I went with a deeper rim carbon wheelset that fit my budget, but the DT Swiss set is totally fine. Also using a Fizik Argo saddle, as I need a middle cut-out for ventilation. Important note: a race bike build in my area, which I'm starting to think is typical pricing, costs $350. Even if you DIY bike service, State requires the professional bike mech. build to be under warranty.

Got the XS size for my 5'2" girlfriend. It's advertised for heights of 4'11" - 5'3" so if anything she should be on the upper end of the range, but it totally fails the standover height check. The top tube is jamming into her even when standing with cleats on.

Also not a huge deal but they shipped the bike with one wrong brake rotor and we had to buy a different sized one.

And I'd much prefer to have a partial assembly option with for the other bikes State sells! This one ended up costing a lot more all in to get it fully assembled at a local bike shop + replace the part.