The Spring Classics have kicked off with a bang, and Opening Weekend delivered some thrilling races and exciting tech trends. Let's dive into the world of road bike technology and uncover the latest innovations!
The Battle of the Groupsets
While the highly anticipated Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 groupset didn't make an appearance, there was plenty of experimentation going on behind the scenes. Teams were split between Shimano and SRAM components, with a few running Campagnolo groupsets. But here's where it gets controversial: despite the variety, most teams seemed to stick to their preferred brands, with little mixing and matching.
The Rise of the Mullet Setup
One notable trend was the prevalence of SRAM-sponsored teams adopting the mullet configuration. This setup, characterized by SRAM Red AXS front ends, cassettes, and direct-mount rear derailleurs, allowed teams to utilize the brand's aerodynamic 54T chainring. It's an interesting move, and one that seems to be gaining traction.
Chain Guides and Inner Tubes
Chain guides were a common sight on all one-by setups, with Wolf Tooth taking the lead in chain keeper duties. Even the humble butyl inner tube made an appearance, used to hold timing transponders on forks.
Race Profile Stickers and Stem Lengths
Race profile stickers were diverse, ranging from glossy decals to handwritten notes. Stem lengths were also a topic of interest, with nothing shorter than 120mm in sight. Most riders opted for 130mm, while some went as long as 145mm.
Handlebar Configurations
There was a mix of handlebar setups, with both traditional stem-and-bar clamps and integrated one-piece designs. Lidl-Trek, for example, used both, with rider Kragh Andersen likely testing out different combinations before settling on an integrated setup.
The Weight Game
We weighed a variety of bikes and found that the average Classics-spec race rig weighed around 7.5kg. The lightest bike was Tom Pidcock's Pinarello Dogma F, weighing in at an impressive 7.18kg. On the other end of the spectrum, Cole Kessler's Factor One tipped the scales at 8.39kg, equipped with SRAM Force AXS.
Mixed Components and Pedal Preferences
Mixed-and-matched components were also on display, a result of sponsor obligations and rider preferences. Shimano Dura-Ace SPD-SL pedals led the charge, often attached to SRAM crankarms. Look Keo Blade Ceramic Ti and Time XPro SL pedals made an appearance too, but only on SRAM-sponsored teams.
The Drivetrain Debate
Among the drivetrain combinations, Bahrain Victorious paired regular Shimano cranksets with Chinese Elilee carbon cranks, some with power meters. It's an interesting mix, and one that seems to work for the team.
The Single Chainring Revolution
The parcours, with its flat and rolling terrain and steep bergs, influenced the chainring standards. The most common size was 54T, with Shimano double chainsets opting for a 54-40T ratio. Mathieu van der Poel, however, went with a 55/40T combination, showcasing the versatility of the two-by setup.
The Crank Length Debate
The crank length debate rages on, with a variety of sizes seen across teams. The most popular length was 172.5mm, followed by 165mm and 175mm. Some teams, like Uno-X, even experimented with shorter lengths, but overall, it seems like classics riders aren't too bothered by the shorter crank trend.
3D-Printed Goodies and Weight-Saving Hacks
Custom 3D-printed components were spotted on some team bikes, particularly computer mounts and cradles. UAE Team Emirates XRG continued to use the custom Wahoo cradle, first seen on Tadej Pogacar's bike at the Tour de France. Lidl-Trek and Uno-X also utilized 3D-printed computer mounts and race number holders, respectively.
Prototype Tyres, Wheels, and Frames
We spotted what appeared to be unreleased tyres on Specialized-sponsored teams, marked with a 'Cotton' logo and measuring 32mm wide. Mathieu van der Poel, the man of the hour, was riding a custom Canyon Aeroad with prototype Shimano Dura-Ace wheels and redesigned CFR logos.
The Reign of 30mm Tyres
Tyre widths were experimental, with the majority of riders opting for wider rubber. The most popular size was 30mm, with brands like Pirelli, Vittoria, and Michelin offering options. The widest tyre seen was the unreleased 32mm Specialized Cotton TLR.
So, there you have it! These are just some of the trends we spotted at Opening Weekend. What do you think of these innovations? Do you prefer the traditional setups or are you excited about the new trends? Let's discuss in the comments!
