Factor Aluto: New gravel bike with racing geometry and large tyre clearance

The British wheel manufacturer Factor is expanding its gravel range with the new Aluto model. While the Ostro Gravel, which is already in the range, is positioned as an aerodynamically optimised bike for fast gravel events, the Aluto is intended to cover a wider range of uses, according to the manufacturer. Factor describes the new model as a versatile bike with sharp handling that is suitable for both speed rides and 300-kilometre races. The tyre clearance is 47 millimetres at the rear and 52 millimetres at the front, which is in line with the current trend towards ever wider tyres.

Geometry and frame design

The Aluto is characterised by its racing geometry, which is designed to enable agile handling despite being designed for wide tyres. Factor relies on a steep head tube angle, which is even slightly steeper than the Ostro. In combination with short chainstays, which are identical to the Ostro Gravel, this should ensure direct handling. To compensate for the additional height of the voluminous tyres, the bottom bracket has been set lower. This lowers the centre of gravity and should improve riding stability.

More aluminium gravel bikes

• Cube Nuroad HPA
• BH GravelX
• Mondraker Arid Alloy

Equipment and integration

The Factor Aluto was developed with a focus on versatility. The frame has an integrated storage space in the down tube for tools or other small parts. The cables are routed completely inside the frame. Factor only offers electronic drivetrain options - but with single or double chainrings. The rear triangle is equipped with a UDH-compatible (Universal Derailleur Hanger) dropout.

Practical features for versatile use

The Factor Aluto uses a round seatpost with a diameter of 27.2 millimetres and external clamping. This dimension also allows the use of a dropper post for technically demanding passages. In addition to the usual bottle cage mounts, there are also mounting options for a top tube bag and under the down tube. This means that the bike can be configured from a minimalist road bike to a lightweight bikepacking setup, depending on requirements. The Factor Aluto is available in the two design versions Raptor Blue and Quattro Grey.

Technical specifications

• internally routed cables
• compatible with electronic/hydraulic drivetrains with one or two chainrings (Shimano twelve-speed, SRAM AXS)
• UDH-compatible dropouts
• Round seatpost (27.2 millimetres) with external clamping
• Dropper post compatibility
• Multiple attachment points (bento box, bottle cage, down tube)
• Compatibility with single and double drives
• Integrated storage space in the down tube

Prices

Standard version 4,699 Euro
Aluto Force XPLR w/Powermeter 8,399 Euro
Aluto RED XPLR w/Powermeter 10,499 Euro