Lapierre Xelius SL 6.0
With the extravagant designed frame achieved Lapierre with the brand new Xelius SL a high recognition value. The tested version 6.0 with Shimano's mechanical Ultegra drivetrain is the second cheapest in the Lapierre portfolio, but the bike still looks very classy at first glance with its chic metallic paintwork and integrated cables.
Who is on the Lapierre Xelius SL 6.0 However, anyone taking a seat will soon realise that they have to live with compromises. The difference in weight compared to the top model is an impressive 1660 grammes. This is not so much due to the frame quality - the heavy wheels with aluminium rims slow the bike down during dynamic acceleration. The add-on parts such as handlebars, stem, seat post and saddle are also significantly heavier than on the top model.
Although the rims are relatively high, they can't keep the Lapierre Xelius SL 6.0 aerodynamically on par with the pro bike. Part of the distance of almost 10 watts with 45 km/h (or 50 seconds on the simulated distance of 60 kilometres) is also due to the classic clamped, round handlebars.
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- Giant TCR Advanced 1 vs. Giant TCR Advanced SL
- Merida Scultura 7000 vs. Merida Scultura Team
- Specialised Tarmac SL 7 Comp vs. Specialised S-Works Tarmac SL 7
- Wilier Zero SL vs. Wilier Zero SLR
- What distinguishes expensive professional racing bikes from inexpensive models
It also clouds the impression of comfortCompared to the flat handlebar unit of the top model, it is much less comfortable to grip. Our mechanics found the complicated cable routing through the stem and frame on the Lapierre Xelius SL 6.0 to be an imposition: Changing the shift cables is a game of patience even for experienced mechanics.
Facts about the Lapierre Xelius SL 6.0
- Price 3599 Euro
- Weight 8.4 kilos
- Aerodynamics 238 Watt****
- Info www.lapierrebikes.com
Frame sizes** XS, S, M, L, XL
Seat/top tube/head tube 520/570/161 millimetres
Stack/Reach/STR*** 569/398 millimetres/1.43
Wheelbase/caster 1005/49 millimetres
Weight frame/fork/steering bearing* 995/421/81 grammes
Drive/Circuit Shimano Ultegra (2x11, 52/36, 11-30 t.)
Brakes Shimano Ultegra (160/140 mm)
Wheels/tyres (weights)***** DT Swiss E 1800 Spline 32/Schwalbe One TLE 25 mm (front/rear 1,380/1,780 grams)
The expensive model: Lapierre Xelius SL 75TH
The Xelius SL piloted the pros over the mountains for the first time during the 2021 Tour. The current top model is a 6.8 kilos light Special edition to the 75th company anniversarywhich, with the exception of the paintwork, largely resembles the working unit of the Teams Groupama-FDJ (pictured is Thibaut Pinot at the Tour de Suisse). The bike scores with low weight and good comfort, the aerodynamics are less good; sprinters prefer the sister model Aircode. In comparison, the bike with Shimano's complete Dura-Ace for 8599 euros is rather favourable.
Facts about the Lapierre Xelius SL 75TH
- Price 8599 Euro
- Weight 6.8 kilos
- Aerodynamics 229 Watt****
- Info www.lapierrebikes.com
Weight frame/fork/steering bearing* 943/382/91 grammes
Drive/Circuit Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 (2x12, 52/36, 11-30 t.)
Brakes Shimano Dura-Ace Disc (160/140 mm)
Wheels/tyres (weights)***** Shimano Dura-Ace C35/Continental Grand Prix 5000S TR 25 mm (f./h. 1,067/1366 grams)
*Weighed weights. **Manufacturer's specification, test size bold. ***Stack/Reach Projected vertical/horizontal dimension from the centre of the bottom bracket to the top of the head tube; STR (Stack to Reach)1.36 means a very stretched, 1.60 a very upright sitting position. ****Aerodynamics Theoretical pedalling power required to overcome the air resistance at 45 km/h, measured in a wind tunnel with a pedalling dummy leg. *****Impeller weights including tyres, cassette, quick release/threaded axles and brake discs if necessary.
Jens Klötzer
Editor
