Wilier has carried over the frame shape, racing geometry and central integration solutions of its all-round racing bike, the Filante SLR ID2, to a new, more affordably priced SL model. Four spec options are available, with prices starting at 4,800 euros.
The Italian brand Wilier is expanding its Filante range downwards. The new Filante SL ID2 adopts the aerodynamic design and geometry of the Filante SLR ID2 WorldTour model, but is intended to enable more cyclists to get started with the Aero road bike range thanks to lower prices. Prices start at 4,800 euros, with the most expensive version costing 6,600 euros. This puts the SL at around half the price of the top-of-the-range SLR model, which is equipped with top-of-the-range groupsets throughout.
The formula is familiar: the silhouette and much of the technology are taken from the top-of-the-range model, whilst the carbon lay-up and spec are less elaborate. However, this press release does not yet reveal which fibres Wilier uses in the SL ID2 frame, nor exactly how much extra weight the frame and complete bike add.
Same racing geometry, new R-Bar cockpit
The new SL features exactly the same racing geometry as the top-of-the-range model, with a compact, distinctly forward-leaning riding position. Even the more affordable Filante is not a comfort-oriented Granfondo racer. There are differences in the handlebars: whilst the SLR is fitted with the high-quality F-Bar, Wilier is introducing the new R-Bar cockpit on the SL ID2. Here too, the cables are routed entirely internally. There is a three-centimetre difference in width between the upper and lower handlebars; the so-called ‘flare’ is designed to offer greater control in the lower section without excessively widening the position of the brake levers.
34 millimetres of tyre clearance and UDH
The biggest improvement over the previous Filante SL lies in its suitability for everyday use. Whilst the old SL officially had a maximum tyre width of 30 millimetres, according to Wilier, the new model can accommodate tyres up to 34 millimetres. This puts it on a par with the SLR ID2 and makes it better suited to rough roads, long training rides or fast marathons.
In addition, there is a UDH derailleur hanger, which allows for the use of a SRAM single-chainring drivetrain, as well as a removable front derailleur mount.
Another new addition is the Aerokit SL, in which bottles and holders are integrated into the frame design in an aerodynamically optimised manner. According to the manufacturer, those seeking maximum aerodynamic efficiency can alternatively fit the Aerokit SLR, which also includes aerodynamically shaped bottle cages. This makes it clear that the SL adopts the system concept of the professional model, but features its own, presumably more cost-effectively produced components.
Predecessor reviewed: A good foundation, but a disappointing range of features
According to Wilier, the nominal weight difference between the SL and SLR frames on the previous Filante model was only around 150 grams. However, the complete bike could still end up weighing around one kilogramme more due to heavier groupsets, wheelsets and tyres. The spec in particular will be a decisive factor with the new model. A significant proportion of the criticism centred on the wheels and tyres. The Miche SWR Evo 50 wheels weighed in at more than three kilograms in total, whilst the Vittoria Rubino tyres, fitted with butyl inner tubes, rolled rather sluggishly by comparison. With TOUR reference wheels, the aerodynamic drag improved by four watts to 215 watts, matching the performance of the top-of-the-range model at the time. This shows that it was not just the frame, but the entire build that held the SL back. The same could also apply to the new SL: the much-criticised wheel-tyre combination is apparently still part of the new package in certain specification variants.
Wilier Filante SL ID2: Specifications and prices
At launch, Wilier is offering four spec options, all featuring electronic gear changes via SRAM Force AXS or Shimano Ultegra or 105 Di2. With the SRAM models, you can choose between 2x12 or 1x13 XPLR drivetrains; they come fitted with wheels from the brand’s own Miche range. The Shimano variants are fitted with standard carbon wheels from Vision. A frame set for self-assembly is not available.
| Groupset | Bicycle wheels | Price |
| SRAM Force AXS E1 2×12 | Miche SWR 50 Carbon | 6,600 euros |
| SRAM Force AXS E1 2×12 | Miche SWR 50 Carbon | 6,200 euros |
| Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8170 2×12 | Vision SC 45 Carbon | 5,999 euros |
| Shimano 105 Di2 R7170 2×12 | Vision SC 45 Carbon | 4,800 euros |
Jens Klötzer
Editor