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The Struggle Hill Climb 2025 | The Lake District’s Hardest Climb?

Chapeau to everyone who lined up on Sunday for the Struggle Hill Climb! By no means an easy task lay ahead despite the 2.7 mile distance! Sunday saw the crowds gather to heckle and shout at the poor souls who chose to ride possibly the UK’s hardest hill climb event. A biblical downpour the day before had everyone a little worried, but come race day blue skies prevailed and the scene was set. Burning lungs and legs a-plenty as 2025 proved to be yet another cracking day on the bikes.

The event supports the Great North Air Ambulance who are beyond deserving. Their three helicopters serve North Yorkshire, the North-East, Cumbria, the Scottish borders and the Isle of Man providing a critical service for those of us who enjoy the outdoors and may find ourselves out of luck. If you can, donate to this incredible cause.v

 

Struggle Hill Climb | Junior Category

I think everyone was blown away by the talent and grit in the junior category this year. With the youngest ever finisher at just 8 years old and standout performances throughout the field. It’s good to know the next generation is in safe hands. Maybe the frog glasses have secret aero gains?

 

Struggle 2025 Image Gallery

Massive thankyou to James Vincent for the incredible photos (as always) head over to the Wheelbase Facebook Page for the event pictures. What a day!

 

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3 Peaks Cyclo-Cross 2025 | Lachlan Morton vs Giles Drake

The 2025 Edition of the legendary 3 Peaks Cyclo-Cross Race is upon us, and it’s shaping up to be a battle of the titans.

 

Giles Drake | Three-Peat Attempt

With Giles on back-to-back victories in 2023 and 2024 can he make it a three-peat and take home the silverware? Competition is looking tough with EF’s own Lachlan Morton coming back for his 2nd attempt at the race. In 2019 Lachlan took home a 4th place finish beating Giles by just under 4 minutes. Let’s not forget the stacked field which inevitably causes upset at the top end of the race. Will Giles’ recent form be enough to take home the win this year?

 

 

Giles Drake on the 3 Peaks Course

Giles knows this course better than most. He’s familiar with its quirks: navigating bogs, choosing the right line on each climb and keeping composed through the fatigue. Last year he timed everything: when to push, when to ease, when to make the move.

Giles is coming in with a strong hand. Local knowledge of the courses demands and predictably bad weather. He’ll be there to capitalise on pinch points and put the power down when it’s needed. However, with a target painted squarely on his back there will be serious competition to navigate as well as bogs, 40% wet grass climbs and the ever-present punctures…

Cannondale SuperX | Weapon Of Choice

With it looking likely that both Giles and Lachlan will be piloting the Cannondale SuperX into the race this weekend there’s no excuses to be made. A proven race winner at the 3 Peaks the SuperX can run a variety of tyre sizes, built in flex to help ensure you stay upright after fatigue sets in and enough rigidity where it matters to put down race-pace power.

This year Giles will be riding his new Super X. Can a local legend (Giles) beat a world tour pro Lachlan’ at the toughest and biggest Cyclo-Cross event in the UK. It could even be a Cannondale 1-2!

 

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NEW: Cervelo R5 2026 // Under 6kg and Race-Ready

Cervélo R5: A Climber’s Dream With Race-Winning Pedigree

Few bikes carry the kind of legacy that Cervélo’s R5 does. From record-shattering climbs to Tour de France victories, it has long been the brand’s flagship for riders who measure their success in vertical meters. The latest R5 continues that tradition, blending ultralight weight with pro-level stiffness and control.

Weight That Defies Limits

At just 5.97kg in a size 56 build, the new R5 sits well below the UCI’s 6.8kg minimum. The 651g frame and 298g fork set the tone, and Cervélo shaved grams across every component to achieve a bike that feels impossibly light without compromising stiffness. For everyday riders, that translates to effortless climbing and snappy acceleration.

Race-Ready Fit and Handling

Cervélo has refined the fit geometry to mirror the aero-focused S5, placing riders in a stronger, more efficient position whether chasing watts or tackling long group rides. Handling remains predictable and confident—exactly what you want when descending fast switchbacks after a summit push. This is the standout characteristic of the R5. While there are a couple of lighter bikes on the market, the R5 holds the title for the best handling response and confidence at speed. Perfect.

ONE PEACE OF MIND

The new R5’s one-piece bar and stem were responsible for a significant part of the weight reduction of the bike, and we know that a perfect fit is a critical part of getting the most out of your new bike. We made 15 different size combinations, and when you buy an R5, we will help you get the right size, for no additional cost.

 

 

Legendary R5

The Cervélo R5 is more than just a featherweight frame—it’s a complete package designed for riders who want to climb faster, descend smoother, and race with the same tools used by cycling’s elite. Whether you’re dreaming of the Alps, the Pyrenees, or simply your local KOM, the R5 delivers a ride that feels every bit as legendary as its history. From the limits-shattering R5CA to Wout van Aert’s winning day on Mont Ventoux, R5 has been part of Cervelo’s story for over two decades. This all-new R5 is an incredibly light (5.97kg in RED and Dura-Ace builds) road bike that’s also stiff enough to compete at the highest levels of professional cycling—as Pauline Ferrand-Prevot proved when she rode it to victory at this summer’s Tour de France Femmes.

Cervelo R5 Stock

We are expecting our stock to arrive in drops. Some stock will be in-store and ready to purchase and some will be arriving. If you’re not sure or want to preorder email info@wheelbase.co.uk.

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Santa Cruz Vala AL | Aluminium eBike

Meet the Santa Cruz Vala AL | Cheaper, but not cheap.

Santa Cruz built the Vala AL to compete with price point options from cheaper brands. The two builds will hit a certain budget but keep you riding on a Santa Cruz. Lifetime warranty, and that top tier build quality we expect from Santa Cruz. It’s cheaper, but not cheap.

 

A departure from tradition

In early 2025, Santa Cruz launched the Vala, a full-powered electric mountain bike built around Bos­ch’s new CX Gen 5 motor. What makes it noteworthy isn’t just the boost—it’s the break from their signature VPP suspension. Instead, the Vala employs a Horst‑link four‑bar design, marking the first non‑VPP long‑travel bike in the lineup.

Why four‑bar?

This shift was necessitated by the new, bulkier Bosch motor and a desire for cleaner kinematics—Santa Cruz engineers needed space and wanted a suspension system that pedalled and braked more neutrally. Enter the four‑bar, which also enables clever features like a flip‑chip for geometry adjustment.

 

Vala AL | 70

BOSCH Performance Line CX
600 Wh battery (optional 250Wh Powermore Range Extender)
MX Wheels
150mm Rear Travel
160mm Fork Travel
SM-XL Frame Sizes
Aluminum Frame

£5599

 

 

Vala AL | Deore

BOSCH Performance Line CX
600 Wh battery (optional 250Wh Powermore Range Extender)
MX Wheels
150mm Rear Travel
160mm Fork Travel
SM-XL Frame Sizes
Aluminum Frame

£4899

 

Santa Cruz | Lifetime Warranty

All Santa Cruz frames, pivot bearings, and Reserve carbon rims have our lifetime warranty.

 

 

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NEW: Yeti LTe // Unapologetic & Built to Go Fast

Yeti LTe: The Full-Power eMTB Built for Speed

Yeti Cycles has just dropped a game-changer – the Yeti LTe, their latest full-power electric mountain bike built for uncompromising speed, control and confidence. Designed with race-winning DNA, this beast isn’t just another eMTB. It’s a mountain bike first, with power to push limits further than ever before.

If you’re a UK rider looking for a high-performance e-MTB that thrives on everything from bike park laps to steep Lake District climbs or rugged Scottish descents, the LTe is here to set a new standard. We were lucky enough to ride the LTe ahead of release, for details on our thoughts head to the bottom of this blog post.

The Yeti LTe is unapologetically fast. With 160mm rear travel, 170mm fork travel, and a slack 64º head angle, this bike is built to stay stable when terrain gets rowdy. It comes set up for 29” wheels or a mullet (MX) configuration, giving you flexibility to dial in your ride style.

At its heart is Yeti’s Sixfinity suspension platform, tuned specifically for the power demands of Bosch’s CX and CX Race drive units. The result? A suspension system that feels bottomless, stays active under braking, and delivers race-ready acceleration response. Whether you’re smashing down Snowdonia’s rocky trails or flowing through Surrey Hills singletrack, the LTe stays planted and playful.

Bosch Power, UK Trail Ready

The LTe comes maxed out with Bosch’s latest CX and CX Race motors. That means up to 100Nm of torque and 750W of output, paired with an 800Wh battery (with 600Wh compatibility if you prefer to keep weight down). For epic days out, it’s also compatible with the Bosch PowerMore Range Extender, giving you an extra 250Wh to keep exploring those long Scottish Highland routes.

Riders will also appreciate the full-colour Bosch Kiox display, seamless smartphone connectivity, and hidden wireless remote controls for a sleek, rattle-free cockpit.

Tuned for Every Rider

One of the standout features of the LTe is its adjustable leverage rate. With a simple flip chip, you can fine-tune the suspension feel:

  • Racy & Consistent (25%) – efficient for climbing and aggressive lines

  • Balanced Ride (30%) – the sweet spot for all-round UK trail use

  • Plush & Poppy (35%) – more bottom-out resistance for bike park laps

This adjustability means you can set it up for the Dyfi Laps one weekend, then tweak it for janky Lakes tech the next.

The Faster You Go The Better It Gets

The LTe is a geometry work of wonder that stays consistent whether you set it up full 29 or run mixed wheels. More importantly, it’s a unique geo that takes modern riding to the maximum. Pumping a mountain bike and using terrain to generate speed is fun. But when you unleash the LTe and let it run through, rather than around, you experience its unbelievable ability to leverage speed. The faster you go, the better it works. A flipchip lets you choose your wheel-size, but comes specced with 29″.

Carbon Layup With DH Tough Vectran Plies

Yeti’s use of Vectran was pioneered on our Special Projects bikes, offering World Cup DH toughness. The LTe carbon fiber frame is enhanced with Vectran plies, a high-performance multifilament like Kevlar offers exceptional impact resistance and contributes to overall strength. Key areas have added protection including chainstays, seatstays, top-tube and downtube.

Yeti LTe First Ride: Our Verdict

We were lucky enough to ride the LTe on some local trails before the official release. The ride feel was absolutely brilliant. The Yeti 30mm rise carbon bar had a good level of compliance, very impressive for an ‘own brand’ bar, no need to upgrade unless you have very specific needs. The handling when pointed down some rough stuff was incredible. The LTe truly living up to the marketing of uncompromised kinematics/build, the more you push the more you are rewarded with a stable platform to drive the legs through. A slack but not ridiculous head tube angle eats rocks and roots, but allows responsive steering in the UK’s classic tight turns. Top-tier!

If you’re ready to take on the UK’s toughest trails with a bike that doesn’t compromise, the Yeti LTe should be at the top of your list. It’s not cheap, but then again, the best never is.

This is a full-power eMTB designed to handle absolutely anything.

The Yeti LTe stock is arriving soon at Wheelbase. To reserve your bike email: info@wheelbase.co.uk

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Woom Bikes: The Best Kids’ Bikes in the UK?

Finding the right bike for your child can feel overwhelming. The UK kids’ bike market is filled with options, but many are too heavy, poorly designed, or simply scaled-down versions of adult bikes. That’s where Woom Bikes come in—purpose-built, lightweight children’s bikes that make learning to ride fun, safe, and stress-free.

 

Why Woom Bikes Are the Best Choice for Kids in the UK

1. Lightweight Kids’ Bikes

Most children’s bikes in the UK are surprisingly heavy—sometimes nearly as much as the child riding them. Woom bikes are up to 40% lighter than standard kids’ bikes, making it easier for children to start pedalling, steer confidently, and stop safely.

2. Designed Specifically for Children

Unlike many brands, Woom doesn’t just shrink adult bike frames. Their bikes are designed with child-specific geometry—from frame angles to handlebar reach. This gives children a natural riding position, boosting balance, control, and confidence on every ride.

3. From Balance Bikes all the way to Off Road Suspension Bikes

Whether you’re searching for a balance bike in the UK for a toddler or a geared bike for an older child, Woom offers a full range for every age and stage.

4. Built for Safety and Fun

Parents across the UK love how quickly their kids learn to ride on Woom bikes. With easy-to-reach brakes, grippy tyres, and quality components, safety is built into every detail. Kids can focus on enjoying the ride, while parents have peace of mind.

 

Why UK Parents Choose Woom Bikes

  • Kids often learn to ride in just a few sessions. Colour coded brakes mean shouting left and right are a thing of the past!

  • Adjustability. Kids grow up quick and the bikes are designed to grow with them. the stem can move forwards to accomodate growth, and there is a huge seatpost insertion depth so the saddle can keep getting higher for the right pedalling position.

  • Lightweight frames make cycling easier and moving the bike around with you is much easier.
  • Safety features. Woom Bikes have built in design features for each age category. For example there is an elastic stopper atttached to the forks so your child is much less likely to jackknife when cornering.

  • Durable, high-quality build means they last for years and a high resale value compared to other children’s bikes in the UK.

 

 

Best Kids’ Bikes by Age: How to Choose the Right Size

1. Balance Bikes (Building confidence and balance)

  • Woom Original GO 1 (balance bike): For toddlers 1.5–3.5 years, height 82–100 cm

 

2. First Pedal Bikes (Learning to pedal)

  • Woom Go 23–4.5 years, height 95–110 cm

  • Woom Go 34–6 years, height 105–120 cm

  • Woom Go 3 AUTOMAGIC: 4–6 years, height 105–120 cm

  • Woom Go 46–8 years, height 115–130 cm.

 

3. All Rounder Bikes (General riding)

  • Woom Explore 4: 6–8 years, height 115–130 cm.

  • Woom Explore 5: 7–11 years, height 125–145 cm.

  • Woom Explore 6: 10–14 years, height 140–165 cm.

 

 

4. Off-Road & Mountain Bikes (Trails and adventure)

  • Woom OFF 4 / OFF Air 4: 6–8 years, height 118–130 cm, inseam minimum 50.5 cm.

  • Woom OFF 5 / OFF Air 5: 7–11 years, height 128–145 cm, inseam 62.5 cm.

  • Woom OFF 6 / OFF Air 6: 10–14 years, height 140–165 cm, inseam 68.5 cm.

 

Sizing System

Finding the perfect kids’ bike can feel overwhelming for UK parents, with so many options that are either too heavy or simply shrunken-down versions of adult bikes. That’s where the woom sizing system stands out. Designed by founder Christian Bezdeka, who combined his expertise in industrial design and child ergonomics, woom bikes are built specifically around the needs of children at every stage of growth. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, the Woom Range offerings from the first balance bike, the Woom GO 1, right up to the Woom EXPLORE 6 for older kids. Each bike features child-optimised geometry: the smaller bikes provide an upright riding position, low step-through frames, and a clever steering limiter for added safety, while the larger bikes introduce a sportier frame for efficient pedalling and agile handling.

Adjustable components like saddle height, handlebar position, and brake reach mean every bike grows with your child, delivering comfort, safety, and confidence on every ride. For UK families looking for a lightweight, safe, and ergonomic kids’ bike that truly fits, the woom sizing system ensures your child always has the right bike at the right time.

 

More Than Just a Bike

Woom isn’t just about cycling—it’s about giving kids independence, outdoor adventure, and a love for riding. With the right bike, children in the UK can build confidence, stay active, and create lasting memories on two wheels.

In-Stock and ready to ship

We have stock off all the Woom Range listed above, head to our Woom Bikes page or your local store to check out the amazing range!

 

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Struggle Hill Climb 2025 / Lake District Cycling Event

The Struggle Hill Climb 2025: Where Grit Meets Glory

Date & Location
Mark your calendars for Sunday, 21 September 2025 — that’s when Ambleside’s infamous Kirkstone Road turns into a battlefield of wills and wheels. The Struggle Hill Climb is a closed-road, 2.7-mile cycling time trial that launches riders one at a time, every minute, beginning at 09:30. With only 150 entry spots, this regional event runs under the regulations and support of Cycling Time Trials (CTT).

Charity & Purpose
Beyond testing physical limits, this ride stretches for a cause: all profits support the Great North Air Ambulance, ensuring that every painful pedal stroke also helps save lives.

Why It’s Called The Struggle

The name says it all. From the start line, the road launches into punishing gradients of 18–20%, with the merest hint of a warm-up. Wind through narrow bends and ancient dry-stone walls before the terrain briefly eases into false flats and light descents, forcing riders to recalibrate their rhythm. But just when you think you can catch a breath, the climb strikes back — the final 200–300 meters ramp sky-high with 20%+ gradients, and the surface gets unpredictable.

Let’s breakdown the stats:

  • Total distance: ~2.67 miles (~4.8 km)

  • Elevation gain: ~403 meters

  • Average gradient: ~8.2%

  • Max gradient: up to 24%

  • Launching into deep oxygen debt from the get-go — that’s the Struggle.

 

What Makes It Special

  • Intense Solo Time Trial: It’s you versus the climb. One rider at a time, timed to the second, with all eyes metaphorically (and literally, if spectators are nearby) on your struggle-against-gravity showdown.

  • Atmosphere & Community: Spectators line the final stretch, cowbells echoing, encouragement booming — a perfect blend of pain and camaraderie.

  • Well-Organised with the Great North Air Ambulance In Mind: Marshals guide the route, and volunteers stand ready at the finish to support weary riders. And every pound raised goes to a vital charity.

 

Our Advice:

  1. Scout the course beforehand.

  2. Warm up well — get those legs ready to suffer.

  3. Fuel smart and, perhaps most importantly, have fun (even while hurting).

 

How to Join or Witness The Struggle

  • Get involved: Though entries are limited, keep an eye on the Cycling Time Trials (CTT) site or the event’s official channels for booking info as the date approaches.

  • For spectators: Head to Ambleside on race day, find a good vantage near the finish, and soak in the energy as riders battle against both gradient and gravity.

  • Timing tip: Arrive early — the event runs from 09:00 to 12:00 on 21 September 2025 Visit Lake District.

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NEW: Wahoo Kickr Core 2

First launched in 2018, this exceptionally popular smart trainer gets its first update in 7 years. With best-in-class ride feel, integrated cadence, virtual shifting and the perfect balance of performance and value, KICKR CORE 2 is the smart choice for riders who want a reliable, immersive training experience at a competitive price. Developed to be compatible with Wahoo SYSTM, Zwift, Rouvy, TrainingPeaks Virtual, MyWhoosh and more.

KICKR CORE 2, WHAT’S NEW?

NEW Shifting Options

comes with Zwift Cog & Click or 11 Speed Cassette
inclusive in price (CORE 2 will also be available with Zwift Ride)

NEW WiFi Connectivity

Giving riders a better connected and significantly
more advanced ride experience – increasing the ability to connect across
phones, tablets and other electronic devices plus faster data transfer speed
vs Bluetooth and ANT+

NEW Leg Design with Easy Assembly

A flatter leg contour allows for a faster,
more stable setup with built-in installation guidance.

NEW KICKR Race Mode

for near instantaneous power response.

NEW KICKR BRIDGE

Data from heart rate monitors can now stream directly
through the trainer to apps, turning KICKR CORE 2 into a central sensor
gateway and reducing setup friction.

Reduced Setup Friction

Multi-color LEDs make it even more easy for riders to
get started – providing clearer status for connectivity, ride readiness, and
diagnostics.

Whats included

AC Power Adapter
1.8mm Cassette Spacer
Drive Side Adapter for QR
Reversible non drive side
adapter for 130mm and 135mm

Non drive side adapters for
12×142 and 12×148 Thru Axle

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ALL NEW: Scott Addict 2026 | All Day Comfort Endurance Road

Introducing the 2026 Scott Addict Endurance Road Bike: A New Era of Comfort and Performance

Scott Sports has unveiled the 2026 Scott Addict Endurance Road Bike, a model that redefines long-distance cycling by blending exceptional comfort with high-performance capabilities. Designed for riders who seek adventure without compromising on speed, the new Addict prioritises the riding experience, ensuring that every journey is both enjoyable and efficient.

 

Unmatched Comfort for All-Day Riding

The 2026 Addict features a reimagined frame geometry that offers 25% more vertical compliance than its race-focused counterpart, the Addict RC, and 50% more than the previous Addict model. This enhancement is achieved through a slimmer seat tube and refined tube profiles, allowing the frame to flex with the terrain and absorb vibrations effectively. The dropped seatstays further contribute to ride smoothness, ensuring comfort over long distances.

 

Enhanced Tyre Clearance for Versatility

Accommodating up to 38mm tires, the new Addict opens up possibilities for wider, lower-pressure tyres that enhance grip and comfort on rough roads. This increased clearance allows riders to tackle a variety of terrains with confidence, making the Addict a versatile companion for both paved and unpaved routes.

 

Refined Geometry for an Upright Riding Position

The Addict’s geometry has been adjusted to provide a more relaxed and upright riding position. With a 5mm higher stack and 5mm shorter reach compared to the previous model, riders can enjoy an ergonomic fit that reduces strain during long rides. These subtle changes, along with a shortened chainstay, enhance handling and overall ride quality.

 

Integrated ‘Save-the-Day’ Kit

Innovatively, Scott has integrated a repair kit into the downtube of the Addict Premium and Addict 10 models. This discreet feature ensures that essential tools are always within reach, eliminating the need to carry them in jersey pockets and maintaining a clean bike profile.

 

User-Friendly Adjustments with Integrated T25 Tool

Maintenance and adjustments are simplified with the inclusion of a universal T25 key, cleverly integrated into the cockpit or handlebar drop. This allows riders to easily fine-tune components such as the stem, handlebar, seat post, and bottle cages without the need for additional tools, streamlining the setup process.

 

A Bike That Celebrates the Journey

The 2026 Scott Addict Endurance Road Bike is more than just a machine; it’s a companion for cyclists who value the experience of the ride. Whether embarking on a long-distance adventure or enjoying a leisurely ride, the Addict ensures that comfort, performance, and the spirit of cycling are always at the forefront.

 

Stock arriving soon!

Get in touch with us via info@wheelbase.co.uk to preorder

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Now Stocking: Colnago Road Bikes

We’re thrilled to announce the arrival of Colnago bikes– a legendary name in cycling, now part of our premium bike lineup. Colnago is synonymous with Italian craftsmanship, cutting-edge design, and a deep-rooted racing heritage. From dominating the pro peloton to pushing technological boundaries, Colnago continues to set the standard for performance road bikes.

HUMBLE ORIGINS ROOTED IN A PASSION FOR CYCLING

Ernesto Colnago’s entrepreneurial story began in a small shop in Cambiago, Italy way back in 1954. At the time, Ernesto was a young worker at the Gloria bike factory in Milan. Due to an accident during cycling training, he was forced to work from home, where he made wheels for his company, assembling rims, hubs and sprockets. Thus began his boyhood dream, starting a business as a bicycle mechanic and later a frame builder. He had little money. To help him, his father cut a mulberry tree from the family garden to build him a workbench.

From Legends Past…

To Legends New…

V5RS

Next-Level Performance and Innovation

The V5Rs is the latest evolution of the Colnago Series. Even lighter and more aerodynamic, the V5Rs is the ultimate all-round racing bike, designed to continue dominating the WorldTour with Pogačar and his team-mates.
The V5Rs is the lightest Colnago ever built, with a ready-to-paint frame weighing in at 685 grams. The frame kit weighs 12.5% less than its predecessor,  without compromising rigidity.
Highlights of the Colnago V5Rs:
  • Ultra-light carbon frame with advanced stiffness optimisation
  • Aero-refined shaping for improved speed and efficiency
  • Integrated front end and clean lines for modern performance
  • Race-tuned geometry for elite-level responsiveness

If you’re after a top-tier race machine with the latest performance tech, the V5Rs sets a new benchmark.

V4

Built for Speed and Control

The Colnago V4 is an all-rounder, a bike that is extremely fun to ride and has a clean and refined design. The monocoque frame is stiff, solid, reactive, and enjoys the same carbon layup R&D and aerodynamic studies that led to the realisation of the V4Rs. Quality carbon and fittings designed to offer an excellent level of performance make the V4 perfectly balanced bike in every respect. The design combines technical features with light and aerodynamic details.
Key features of the Colnago V4:
  • High-modulus carbon frame with aerodynamic tube shaping
  • Internal cable routing and integrated cockpit system
  • Disc brake design for confident, responsive braking
  • Balanced geometry for speed, comfort, and precision handling

Whether you’re racing, training, or tackling tough sportive routes, the V4 is ready for it all.