Around two years after the premiere of the Arcalis Stevens remedies one of the few criticisms of the competition bike, which, with 207 watts at 45 km/h, is one of the best in the world. fastest production bikes in the TOUR test counts. Thanks to higher quality carbon fibres and new production techniques, the unpainted frame of the Aero model is said to be 124 grams lighter. According to the Hanseatic company, the raw frame in the medium frame size previously weighed 966 grams, while the new so-called SSL version should weigh 842 grams.
Arcalis & Xenith: Frames up to 15 per cent lighter
TOUR weighed the first generation frame, including paintwork, at 1162 grams. With its new chassis, the Arcalis should be one of the lightest aero specialists and close the gap to race all-rounders that combine aerodynamics and weight. For a better comparison with the fast competition: the carbon frame of a Canyon Aeroad CFR weighs 955 grams (size M) according to our measurements, for the Cervélo S5 we determined a frame weight of 1110 grams (size 56).
The long-distance Xenith slimmed down for the 2024 model year. According to the manufacturer, the bare frame should be "around 90 to 120 grams" lighter. The painted version should therefore weigh less than 1000 grams, after the frame of its predecessor weighed in at 1019 grams on the TOUR scales. An impressive result for a marathon bike. The frame of the Giant Defy Advanced SL (947 grams) is currently one of the lightest in the endurance segment.
According to Stevens, the weight saving was not at the expense of stiffness or comfort. The North German company claims consistent quality for both platforms. The new versions of the Arcalis and Xenith are still available exclusively through Stevens' custom programme, with the basic configurations starting at 3699 euros for the Arcalis and 3399 euros for the Xenith. Both models are also still available with a heavier frame for 200 euros less in each case.
E-Getaway: Gravel bike with TQ motor
With the E-Getaway, Stevens is also presenting a motorised bike with curved handlebars for the first time. The off-road bike with carbon frame is equipped with the lightweight HPR50 electric motor from TQ. The drive unit has a maximum torque of 50 Newton metres and a maximum output of 300 watts. The battery with 360 watt hours is hidden in the down tube, and an integrated display on the top tube allows you to select riding modes and more.
The e-gravel bike shifts mechanically with Shimano's new GRX groupset. Continental 40-millimetre tyres are fitted to the DT Swiss aluminium rims as standard. The frame and fork provide space for tyres up to 45 millimetres wide. For longer tours or commuting, fixed mudguards and a pannier rack can be retrofitted. The price of the new bike, which weighs just under 13 kilograms, is 6399 euros.
Aspin: Return as a disc model
The Aspin returns to the portfolio with disc brakes and a redesigned aluminium frame, after the sports-oriented Classic models now only with rim brakes was available. The Aspin Disc has a modern look thanks to the integration of brake lines and seat post clamp, and the frame set is approved for a maximum of 32 mm tyres.
In the setup with a mechanical twelve-speed 105 from Shimano and robust aluminium wheels from DT Swiss, the novelty is said to weigh 9.2 kilograms. In addition to the 1999 euro basic version, the Aspin is also available in the configurator and can be customised with top-of-the-range electronic drivetrains and high-quality carbon wheels.
Julian Schultz
Editor
