Although you don’t read too many reviews about Lapierre bikes, rest assured that the brand is highly regarded in top racing circles.

In fact, Lapierre sponsors the French racing team Francaise des Jeux, and its constant to-and-fro consultation with those seasoned riders has led to the better development of its recent products.

The X Lit 400 FDJ represents the second tier of Lapierre bikes and the good news is it does not disappoint.

This bike would have to rank amongst the stiffest rides available at the moment – in fact, some might argue that it is a bit too stiff.

It has definitely been built with racing in mind, and those looking for a casual weekend ride need search elsewhere.

From an aesthetic point of view, the 400 FDJ is a real stunner. Seriously. Starting with the beautifully curved (and super long) downtube and progressing through to the terrific colour scheme and professional-looking decals, this bike will please visually.

At less than one kilogram you can also take confidence that this bike will perform. The lightweight is complemented by great power transfer that allows the bike to launch forward both on flats and up hills.

The spec for the bike is interesting, and arguably its biggest downside. Some might feel that the groupset – Shimano Ultegra SL – is a little below par for a top end bike.

While this gruppo handles itself well, it is not top tier and arguably brings the enjoyment and quality of the bike down very slightly.

However, many other parts of the spec do meet expectations. Take the front fork, an EC90 special from US company Easton. Not only is it light and stiff, it fights the frame wonderfully and is known for its great build quality.

The wheels are more than adequate, too. Mavic Ksyrium Equipes boosted by Hutchison Fusion tyres. These are tough and well balanced, not to mention light.

And another thing about those wheels: they do a good job of reducing some of the road shock that comes with the aforementioned stiffness of the ride.

You will be sitting on a Selle Italia Filante saddle if you ride stock and, as always, you can switch this to something else if you need a different level of comfort.

On the whole this bike is certainly up there with the better known top end bikes and will do more than hold its own in testing.

If you are looking for a relatively rare bike with great hardness and an aptitude for racing, check out the 400 FDJ.