The outstanding feature of the Raleigh Cadent line is the frame geometry, particularly the rider "cockpit." These bikes are intended to provide high-performance, light-weight rides for riders who are not racers and are not comfortable in the extremely low position used by racers, but who still want a fast, easy running machine.
The top tube is shorter than the current fashion for racing-type bikes, and the head tube is taller than usual. The result is that the handlebars are a much easier reach than a pure racing style bike provides.
The "heads-up-but-sporty" positioning makes sense for a lot of today's riders.
