.
.
.
#UnboundGravel #GravelTech #ProBikeCheck #UnreleasedGear #GravelBikes #CyclingInnovation #LachlanMorton #MattiaDeMarchi #AxelleDubauPrevot #MorganAguirre #RussellFinsterwald #GravelCycling #BikeTech #CampagnoloPrototype #TailfinBags
Source link
Unbound Gravel 2023 served as a showcase for cutting-edge cycling technology, with numerous pros riding unreleased bikes, components, and accessories. The event provided a sneak peek into the future of gravel bike tech, with highlights including prototype bikes from Pinarello and Orbea, innovative gear setups, and new tire and drivetrain developments. Below is a detailed summary of the pro bike tech spotted at Unbound Gravel:
Russell Finsterwald’s Trek Checkpoint
Russell Finsterwald rode a special edition Trek Checkpoint with a unique marbled paint job created to commemorate the Unbound 200. While the bike itself isn’t new, the limited-edition colorway and its features stood out. Key components included:
- One-piece handlebar and stem: Typically found on the Checkmate and Madone, this setup offers aerodynamic efficiency.
- 48t chainring: A larger chainring for speed on gravel roads.
- Bontrager Kovee MTB wheels: Paired with Continental Dubnital tires for lightweight performance.
- Third bottle cage: Secured with a Silca Boa strap to keep it stable on rough terrain.
Mattia De Marchi’s Prototype Campagnolo and Pirelli Setup
Mattia De Marchi’s bike was a standout due to its unreleased components:
- Prototype 13-speed Campagnolo groupset: A new drivetrain offering enhanced gear range and precision.
- Unreleased Pirelli tires: Designed for improved grip and durability on gravel surfaces.
Though De Marchi didn’t achieve the desired result at Unbound 200, his bike’s tech made it a highlight of the event.
Lachlan Morton’s Cannondale Topstone with Tailfin Prototypes
Lachlan Morton brought his signature creativity to the Unbound XL, using a Cannondale Topstone decked out with innovative gear:
- Tailfin prototypes: A front bag designed for aerodynamic efficiency and a rear saddle bag supported by Tailfin’s rear rack. The saddle bag included a Muc-Off tubeless tire plug slot.
- Vision 4D Flat MAS Kit: Paired with aero road bars for a unique riding position.
- Vittoria Mezcal tires: A 50mm tire on the rear and a wider 2.25-inch tire on the front for versatility and traction.
- 48/31T cranks and 11-34t cassette: A gearing setup optimized for steep climbs and long stretches.
Axelle Dubau-Prévot’s Unreleased Pinarello Gravel Bike
Axelle Dubau-Prévot rode what appears to be a new gravel bike from Pinarello, distinct from the current Grevil model:
- Lower seat stays: A significant design departure for improved comfort and compliance.
- Down tube storage hatch: Adds practicality for long-distance rides.
- One-piece carbon cockpit: Similar to the Most Talon handlebar on the Pinarello X9.
- Fork leg mounts: Enhanced mounting options for additional gear.
The unbranded bike featured a sleek, stealthy design, with subtle updates hinting at Pinarello’s gravel bike evolution.
Morgan Aguirre’s Unreleased Orbea Gravel Bike
Morgan Aguirre raced to a 9th-place finish aboard an unlabeled Orbea gravel bike, which appeared to be a new model. While specific details were scarce, the bike showcased Orbea’s commitment to innovation in the gravel segment.
Key Highlights
- Prototyping in Action: Unbound Gravel has become a proving ground for brands to test new tech under race conditions. From drivetrains to tires and bags, the event is a hotspot for innovation.
- Customization and Strategy: Pros tailored their setups to the demands of the race, with choices in tire width, gearing, and accessories reflecting individual preferences and course conditions.
- Gravel Tech Evolution: The bikes and components seen at Unbound 2023 hint at broader trends in gravel cycling, including lighter builds, increased versatility, and a focus on aerodynamics.
For those eager to see these bikes and components in action, the video footage from Unbound Gravel offers an in-depth look at the cutting-edge tech that could shape the future of gravel cycling.
