New race gravel bike from Bianchi: Impulso becomes more aerodynamic and lighter

With the completely redesigned Impulso, Bianchi presents a Race gravel bikewhich is designed to be more competitive than its predecessor in races around the world. To achieve this, the traditional manufacturer has given the new model an aerodynamic update and is using the Oltre RC and Specialissima. The head tube and the transition to the down tube in particular look confusingly similar to the construction on the new lightweight model from the Italians. In contrast to the old model, which is more like an all-road bike by today's standards, the cables are also integrated. On the top model, which operates under the luxury label "Reparto Corse" (racing department), a lightweight carbon cockpit and fast wheels round off the aero concept.

Bianchi Impulso: The most important facts

• Weight of complete wheel: from 8.1 kilogrammes
• Stack/Reach/STR: 554/391 millimetres/1.42
• Maximum tyre clearance: 42 millimetres
• Frame sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
• Prices: 2,999 to 6849 euros

The Impulso RC also benefits from the high-end components on the scales. The top model is said to weigh 8.1 kilograms. For the mid-range version, Bianchi quotes a complete bike weight of 8.9 kilograms. The Italians have not provided any information on the basic model, which rolls on simple aluminium wheels. In order to keep the weight as low as possible, Bianchi has dispensed with mounting eyelets for bags or mudguards.

A front-heavy weight distribution resulting from the aero optimisation and the relatively low tyre clearance of 42 millimetres indicate that the Impulso is likely to be tightly tuned. As Bianchi did not comment on the new carbon seatpost with integrated clamp in the press release, we can only speculate about the function of the design.

The riding position is extremely race-like: With an STR ratio of 1.42 in a medium frame size, the Impulso is orientated towards professional material. On the Specialissima, for example, you sit in a similarly stretched position. In the race gravel bike segment, the BMC Kaius puts the driver in a comparable position. The long wheelbase suggests a high level of driving stability.

Bianchi Impulso: Equipment and prices

Attention Bianchi fans: The Italians offer all three equipment variants in Celeste paintwork or at least with accents of the most famous frame colour in the racing bike world. In the Oltre and Specialissima, only the basic models are available in the typical colour. Another unique selling point: the Impulso family is equipped with double drivetrains and a wide range of gears (2x12). The competition is now increasingly focussing on single cranks. Bianchi charges 6849 euros for the top model with electronic wireless shifting from SRAM. The cheaper Pro and Comp versions with mechanical Shimano GRX cost 4249 and 2999 euros respectively.

Impulso RC

• Drive/gear shift: SRAM Force AXS (2x12; 46/33, 10-36 t.)
• Impellers: Reparto Corse 43G Ceramitech (Carbon)
• Tyres: Pirelli Cinturato Gravel RC (40 mm)
• Price: 6849 Euro

Impulso Pro

• Drive/gear shift: Shimano GRX 820 (2x12; 48/31, 11-36 t.)
• Impellers: Velomann Terbium (Carbon)
• Tyres: Pirelli Cinturato Gravel H (40 mm)
• Price: 4249 Euro

Impulso Comp

• Drive/gear shift: Shimano GRX 610 (2x12; 46/30, 11-36 t.)
• Impellers: Fulcrum Rapid Red 900 (aluminium)
• Tyres: Pirelli Cinturato Gravel H (40 mm)
• Price: 2999 Euro