The traditional Italian manufacturer has thus almost completely reorganised its portfolio within one and a half years. Only the top marathon model is still waiting for an update in the segment of bikes with racing handlebars. Just a few weeks ago, the Italians launched the long-distance Infinito revised. Previously, the race gravel bike Impulso and the two competition racers Oltre and Specialissima modernised.
Bianchi Arcadex: The most important facts
- Weight of complete wheel: not specified
- Stack/Reach/STR: 584/391 millimetres/1.49 (size M)
- Maximum tyre clearance: 50 millimetres
- Frame sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
- Prices: 2949 to 4999 Euro
The new Arcadex continues to take its place in the off-road segment as a bikepacking model, with Bianchi focussing on a relatively sporty frame geometry. According to the manufacturer, the medium frame size results in an STR ratio of 1.49. On comparable bikes, you usually sit a little more upright, the ratio of stack (actual frame height) to reach (actual frame height) is around 1.55 or more. The long wheelbase (1044 millimetres) and slack steering angle (73.5 degrees) indicate good-natured steering behaviour.
With a tyre clearance of up to 50 millimetres, even rough terrain should be manageable. 45 millimetre wide Pirelli tyres are fitted ex works. Another comfort element is a round carbon seat post in the standard 27.2 mm size. It is also possible to retrofit the bike with a suspension fork. The top model is already equipped with the Rockshox Rudy XPLR from the factory. The cables are partially integrated under the aluminium handlebar/stem combination in the head tube.
Storage compartment and bag set
A highlight of the carbon frame is a storage compartment integrated into the down tube, the so-called IFS (Internal Frame Storage) can be opened without tools and offers space for a puncture kit or food. The gravel bike can also be retrofitted with fixed mudguards. Bianchi is also offering its own bag collection for the first time. The four-piece kit called Orma includes waterproof nylon bags for the top tube, handlebars and frame triangle as well as an "arse rocket". The set is available from selected specialist dealers; the traditional brand has not announced a price.
Equipment and prices
The Arcadex is available in a total of four equipment variants. All models are equipped with 1x12 drivetrains from Shimano or SRAM and huge sprocket sets. With 40 teeth on the cranks and up to 51 teeth on the largest sprocket, you should be able to get up steep climbs even with luggage. While the Comp models are built with simple aluminium wheels from Fulcrum, the Pro versions are fitted with carbon wheels from Velomann. According to the manufacturer, the set weighs 1542 grams and the rims are wide with an inner width of 25 millimetres. Prices start at 2949 euros, the top model with suspension fork costs 4999 euros.
Arcadex Comp GRX
- Drive/gear shift: Shimano GRX 610/822 (1x12; 40, 11-51 t.)
- Impellers: Fulcrum Rapid Red 900 (aluminium)
- Tyres: Pirelli Cinturato Gravel M (45 mm)
- Price: 2949 Euro
Arcadex Comp Apex
- Drive/gear shift: SRAM Apex Eagle (1x12; 40, 11-50 t.)
- Impellers: Fulcrum Rapid Red 900 (aluminium)
- Tyres: Pirelli Cinturato Gravel M (45 mm)
- Price: 2949 Euro
Arcadex Pro GRX
- Drive/gear shift: SRAM GRX 820/822 (1x12; 40, 11-51 t.)
- Impellers: Velomann Terbium (Carbon)
- Tyres: Pirelli Cinturato Gravel M (45 mm)
- Price: 4099 Euro
Arcadex Pro Apex/GX AXS
- Drive/gear shift: SRAM Apex/GX Eagle AXS (1x12; 40, 10-52 t.)
- Impellers: Velomann Terbium (Carbon)
- Tyres: Pirelli Cinturato Gravel M (45 mm)
- Suspension fork: Rockshox Rudy XPLR (30 mm)
- Price: 4999 Euro
Julian Schultz
Editor
