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Bianchi presents Oltre with "wings"

Julian Schultz

 · 18.10.2022

Bianchi presents Oltre with "wings"Photo: Hersteller
New Italian racer: Bianchi presents the Oltre RC, a new aero racer.
Bianchi is proclaiming nothing less than the "aerovolution" with the new Oltre. The traditional Italian manufacturer has taken inspiration from motorsport for its new model and has given the head tube special "air deflectors". In combination with the two-part cockpit and in-house wheels, the aero bike should be significantly faster.

Click through: The new Bianchi Oltre

Bianchi is planning the "Aerovolution": the new Oltre is to be 17 watts faster than its predecessor.
The new Oltre is partly reminiscent of well-known aero models such as the Cervélo S5 or Merida Scultura, but also has a striking unique selling point. | Images: Manufacturer

Bianchi Oltre: Small wings on the head tube

"The Bianchi Oltre RC represents a new technological standard in the world of cycling," says Bianchi's Managing Director Fabrizio Scalzotto proudly - referring to the so-called "Air Deflector". These small carbon wings are integrated on both sides of the head tube and are designed to channel the airflow better around the racing bike and rider. Wind tunnel tests have shown that the Oltre RC is 17 watts faster at a speed of 50 km/h compared to its predecessor, the Oltre XR4. The system, which is reminiscent of the wind deflectors on racing cars, should also offer a clear aero advantage in crosswinds.

A few days ago, TOUR reader Christian Seßner caught a snapshot of the Oltre during secret filming by Bianchi on Lake Garda.Photo: SeßnerA few days ago, TOUR reader Christian Seßner caught a snapshot of the Oltre during secret filming by Bianchi on Lake Garda.

Components from Reparto Corse

The "air deflectors" are the result of close cooperation with Reparto Corse, the racing department at Bianchi. The lightweight aero wheels (1540 grams) and the 3D-printed saddle (168 grams) on the Bianchi Oltre are also a product of this collaboration. The carbon cockpit with its two-part stem is reminiscent of the Cervélo S5.

Click through: The equipment variants of the Bianchi Oltre

Bianchi offers the Aero innovation in three equipment variants at prices between 5400 and 13800 euros and in six frame sizes.
| Images: Manufacturer

Bianchi about to return to the World Tour?

The Italians' new aero platform comprises three models. The top model, the Bianchi Oltre RC, comes with exclusive full equipment including high-profile wheels (50/65 millimetres) and SRAM Red eTap. The price: 13800 euros. According to Bianchi, it was "developed for Word Tour races".

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Could this be the return of the traditional forge to the professional circuit? After all, no World Tour team was travelling with bikes from Treviglio in 2022.

Three models from 5400 euros

The Oltre Pro for 8000 euros shifts with SRAM Force eTap and rolls on slightly flatter carbon wheels from Reparto Corse (50/50 millimetres). The Oltre with SRAM Rival eTap is the entry-level model in the range. For 5400 euros, however, you have to make do without the "Air Deflector"; the wheels and handlebar/stem unit come from Velomann. However, it is the only model that will be available exclusively in the popular Bianchi colour Celeste.

The new models will be available in six frame sizes from November. Similar to Colnago, Bianchi wants to attract potential buyers with an interactive world of experience including augmented reality.

Julian Schultz

Julian Schultz is a qualified sports scientist and trained sports journalist and is responsible for testing complete bikes. From competition bikes to gravel bikes, he tests the latest models and keeps his eyes open for the latest trends. This includes the Tour de France, where the test editor has been on the lookout for technical details and stories from the paddock since 2022.

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