Bianchi releases new Specialissima, promises increased power
The latest release from the Italian company seeks to combine the golden trio of comfort, stiffness, and control in one svelte package
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Every racer is in hot pursuit of a bike that is light, stiff, and comfortable, and Bianchi has promised to deliver exactly those characteristics with the new Specialissima. Its said to weigh in at 780 grams for the 55cm frame, a feathery figure that Bianchi claims does not detract from the overall stiffness of the bike. In fact, Bianchi says its Countervail vibration-canceling system not only makes for a smooth ride, but also enhances the overall rigidity.
The frame layup includes a special viscoelastic layer of carbon that supposedly damps vibration while increasing stiffness. Most frame manufacturers use various types of carbons and layups to fine-tune the ride quality of the bike, though Bianchi is the only company to use the Countervail material.
With mostly round frame tubing and a short head tube, the Specialissima looks outwardly like a climbing bike, but Bianchi touts its handling at high speeds to appeal to the all-rounders looking for a do-everything bike. Expect LottoNL-Jumbo riders to put those ambitions to task at this year’s Tour de France.
