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Rose XLite promises low weight
If a road bike's model name already indicates its low weight, then it must be able to measure up to this - and the new Rose XLite (meaning extremely light) does this remarkably well.
The top models in particular, which, like their predecessors, can be recognised by the suffix 06, score points for their lightweight construction. The Bocholt-based company states a frame weight from 825 grams, the carbon frames of the model series Rose XLite 04 are said to be around 125 grams heavier. Depending on the equipment, the Aero racing bikes between 6.9 and 8.1 kilos.
Our test frame of the Rose XLite Dura-Ace Di2 (size 57) weighs just under 900 grams. Thanks to its lightweight and high-quality equipment - the wheels, cockpit and seatpost are Rose's own developments - the racing machine weighs in at a measured 7.1 kilograms. This puts it in competition with established lightweight experts such as the Cervélo R5 (TOUR 12/2021).
Carbon frame under one kilogramme
The race characteristics are supported by the sporty frame geometry. The combination of a relatively short head tube and steep seat angle results in a stretched riding position. Speed is not only characterised by the weight and geometry. The new Rose is also said to have taken a step forwards in terms of aerodynamics. In particular, the slim front with integrated cables and the 60 millimetre high carbon wheels point to an improvement. To put things in perspective: The old version of the Rose XLite 06 with rim brakes required 223 watts to pedal at a speed of 45 kilometres per hour.
Agile all-rounder
The new Rose XLite left a lasting impression during our test rides. There is hardly a riding situation that the Rose XLite 06 can't handle. Flat speed chases, steep ramps or crisp sprints: The racer scores as an agile all-rounder that is trimmed for top speed but also offers sufficient suspension comfort.
Rose XLite: 9 models from 2999 to 8199 euros
Rose offers its new Competition road bike model in total nine variants between 2999 and 8199 euros (see picture gallery). All XLite 04s roll on aluminium wheels, only the two models with electronic shifting (Ultegra Di2, Force eTap) are equipped with a one-piece cockpit. The full package of an integrated handlebar-stem unit, fast carbon wheels and modern electronic shifting (Ultegra Di2, Dura-Ace Di2, Force eTap, Red eTap) is available on four top models of the Rose XLite 06.
The new Rose XLite Six in the TOUR test lab
- Weight: 7.1 kilos
- Price: 7999 Euro
- Weight frame/fork/steering bearing* 901/389/84 grammes
- Frame sizes** 50, 53, 55, 57, 59, 62
- Seat/top tube/head tube 500/555/162 millimetres
- Stack/Reach/STR*** 568/394 mm/1.44
- Wheelbase/caster 1000/55 mm
Equipment
- Drive Shimano Dura-Ace (2x12, 52/36, 11-30 t.)
- Gearshift/brakes Shimano Dura-Ace Di2/Shimano Dura-Ace (160/160 millimetres)
- Wheels/tyres (weights)**** Rose RC Sixty/Schwalbe Pro One TT 28 mm (front/rear 1206/1561 grams)
*Weighed weights
**Manufacturer's specification, test size bold
***Stack/reach projected vertical/horizontal measurement from the centre of the bottom bracket to the top of the head tube; STR (stack to reach): 1.36 means a very stretched, 1.60 a very upright riding position
****Wheel weights including tyres, cassette, quick-release skewers/threaded axles and brake discs if applicable
Julian Schultz
Editor
