The first few kilometres are a surprise. The Venta R literally flies over the tarmac. The Basso easily breaks through the magical 30 km/h barrier for many amateur athletes. Does the new marathon bike from the Italians conceal a model with racing genes? Unfortunately not quite. On the first part of the test lap, both bike and rider benefit from the tailwind. On the second section of the circuit, the pace is not quite as brisk, and the Venta R shows its true character: as an unpretentious bike with attributes suitable for long distances, at a moderate price and with the "Made in Italy" label.
Basso Venta R: Classic appearance
At just under 3000 euros, the Venta R is the most affordable racing bike with disc brakes in the traditional manufacturer's range. The new model is based on a timeless carbon frame, which Basso does not have produced cheaply in the Far East, but manufactures in Italy like the up to four times more expensive racing bikes. Only the seat tube deviates from the classic look with a barely sloped frame by "bending" around the rear wheel and suggesting an aero shape. In contrast to its predecessor, which is still available in the current model year, the shift cables and brake lines are partially integrated and emphasise the modern design.
The Venta R's weight of more than nine kilograms is typical of current road bikes, but not very pleasing; in addition to the robust and extremely torsion-resistant carbon frame, simple components drive the weight upwards. In particular, the aluminium wheels from our own Microtech brand and the simple Conti tyres slow the Basso down and require strong pedal strokes when the wind doesn't intervene to help or when going uphill. Another indication that the stable Basso is not primarily intended to fulfil racing ambitions, but almost belongs to the category of all-road bikes, is the extremely upright riding position.
Comfort details
Thanks to the long head tube, the handlebars are enthroned high above the front wheel, reminiscent of the long-distance Astrawhose riding position is based on comfortable gravel bikes. The Venta R also inherits the integrated carbon seatpost from its more expensive brand brother, which yields very little both in the laboratory measurements and on the road. The 30 millimetre wide Conti Ultra Sport tyres can at least compensate for the hardness somewhat, but you still have to grip the handlebars tightly to avoid losing control on bumpy roads and cobblestones. The frame can accommodate tyres up to 35 millimetres wide, which would further improve suspension comfort and extend the range of use to gravel tracks. However, the seatpost with its D-shaped cross-section cannot be replaced with a round and more flexible 27.2 millimetre model; Basso only offers an even stiffer version without offset.
Many frame sizes
The set-up with Shimano's 105 gears and twelve sprockets on the rear wheel is functional. A 1:1 gear ratio is possible in the lowest gear, which takes the fear out of steep ramps. Overall, the gears change smoothly, the disc brakes are powerful and easy to modulate. Shifting gears at the touch of a button on the Venta R is only possible with cost-intensive tuning, as Basso only sells the racer in one equipment variant - which on the other hand explains the competitive price. Interested parties can also only choose between two colour variants - black or white.
On the other hand, there are many frame sizes from 42 to 61 centimetres, which means that even smaller (and taller) riders can find a suitable Venta R. The Basso does not have mounting points for fixed mudguards or luggage; specialists in the young all-road category offer more additional benefits here. Overall, the Venta R is a solid marathon bike for long days in the saddle, even if the standard equipment is not exactly a comfort miracle. The greatest tuning potential lies dormant in the wheels: With lighter carbon wheels and higher quality tyres, the Venta R would roll a little faster over the tarmac even without a tailwind and would be more fun to ride with more agile handling.
Basso Venta R - Info & test grade
- TOUR grade: 2,6
- Price: 2849 Euro
- Weight of complete wheel: 9.3 kilos
- Frame sizes: 42, 48, 51, 53, 56, 58, 61
Geometry
- Seat/top/head tube: 561/555/180 millimetres
- Stack/Reach/STR: 599/381 millimetres/1.57
- Stack+/Reach+/STR+: 659/533 millimetres/1.24
- Wheelbase/caster: 985/58 millimetres
Equipment
- Drive/gear shift: Shimano 105 (2x12; 50/34, 11-34 t.) | Shimano 105 (2x12; 50/34, 11-34 t.) Grade: 2.0
- Brakes: Shimano 105 (160/160 mm) | Grade: 1.5
- Tyres: Continental Ultra Sport 28 mm (eff.: 30 mm) | Grade: 1.0
- Impellers: Microtech MCT
- Impeller weights: 1583/2148 grams (front/rear)
Measured values
- Driving stability: 10.9 N/mm | Grade: 1.0
- Rear comfort: 164 N/mm | Grade: 2.7
- Comfort front: 113 N/mm | Grade: 3.3
- Ride/ bottom bracket stiffness: 70 N/mm | Grade: 1.0
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: top workmanship, many sizes
- Minus: heavy, low spring comfort
How TOUR tests
Julian Schultz
Editor
