Pinarello Prince

The Pinarello Prince is a stalwart in the Italian brand’s lineup, revered for its road racing capabilities with a pedigree that traces back to the legendary Pinarello Dogma. Occupying a space just below the top-tier Dogma, the Prince offers a blend of high-performance attributes and more accessible pricing, making it an attractive choice for serious cyclists who want a taste of elite racing without crossing into the premium segment. The Prince has been around for a number of years, with the 2015 to 2025 models showcasing various advancements in design and technology to cater to evolving rider demands.

Riding the Pinarello Prince, one quickly appreciates its sharp handling and responsive feel, which are hallmarks of Pinarello's engineering. The bike is designed for speed and excels on smooth tarmac, with a geometry that supports aggressive riding positions. The carbon frame, consistent across most iterations, provides a stiff yet forgiving ride, crucial for the undulating and often unpredictable nature of UK roads. While it's a joy on open country lanes, the Prince can feel a tad harsh on rougher city streets, where its race-oriented DNA becomes more pronounced.

When compared to rivals like the Specialized Tarmac or the Trek Emonda, the Prince holds its ground firmly. While the Tarmac might edge out in terms of sheer lightweight performance, and the Emonda offers compelling versatility, the Prince stands out with its distinctive Italian styling and heritage. It's not just about aesthetics; the attention to aerodynamics and frame stiffness is evident, offering a ride that’s both fast and stable.

On the used market, the Pinarello Prince represents good value, especially models from 2018 onwards, which benefit from updated aerodynamics and improved integration of components. High-end builds with Shimano Ultegra or SRAM Force groupsets are particularly desirable, offering a balance of performance and cost. While older models can still perform admirably, newer iterations provide enhancements in comfort and efficiency that are worth considering.

Prospective buyers should be mindful of a few known issues. The Prince's carbon frame, while solid, should be inspected for any signs of damage or repair. Pay attention to the areas around the bottom bracket and headset for any creaks or play, as these can indicate wear or improper assembly. Also, check the condition of the wheels, as they take a fair amount of punishment on British roads. Regular maintenance records can be a good indicator of the bike’s overall condition.

What it's like to ride

Riding the Pinarello Prince on UK roads is an exhilarating experience, especially for those who appreciate a bike designed with speed in mind. Its stiff carbon frame translates to impressive power transfer, making it a joy on long, flat stretches and during sprints. The geometry encourages an aggressive position, ideal for those familiar with road racing. However, it’s less forgiving on rough surfaces, where its race-oriented setup can feel a bit harsh. Cornering is precise and confidence-inspiring, a boon on winding country lanes.

Who it's for

The Pinarello Prince is ideal for avid road cyclists who value performance and style. It's suited for those looking to upgrade from entry-level models to something that offers a taste of professional-grade cycling without the premium price tag of top-tier models.

Models from 2018 onwards offer the best value, featuring updated aerodynamics and modern component integration. Older models are still solid choices but may lack some newer comforts and efficiencies.