The Belgian team has signed a new contract with Orbea, the Spanish brand that sponsored Euskaltel for years and they also supplied bicycles to Cofidis, B&B-Hotels and Ceratizit for a while.

“Our collaboration with Ridley will indeed finish at the end of this year. We are switching to a new bicycle brand,” confirms general manager Stéphane Heulot. “Not so much because we are not satisfied with the quality of the Ridley bike. We choose a different brand because we want to improve ourselves financially. That is necessary to be able to keep our current core.”

Heulot also indicates that it is a “complicated matter” as the contract that Lotto Dstny has with Ridley is still available until 2025. That contract will therefore be broken.

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According to the team, the brand was established in 2000 and it creates helmets and eyewear for cyclists, paddlers and ski and snowboarders.

While most traditional time trial helmets use teardrop form, in different shapes and sizes, this helmet appears to take a leaf out of POC’s design book.

“You can see what they’re trying to do with the split channel at the front,” says Xavier Disley. “There’s a high pressure area right in the middle of most aero helmets just above the visor. If you can reduce the pressure there by channelling the airflow out, around or away effectively, then that is often good.

“It can be done just with the shape of the helmet, as with the rare new Ekoi, or with internal channels.”

“Helmets are so individual that you really need to have them tested on a few people to form an opinion … whether it works for everyone or only in specific circumstances is unclear. The pitfall that companies sometimes fall into is when they test things like this only on one rider, or one mannequin and you end up designing a helmet just for that person.”

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This is an exciting comeback for Bianchi, which heralds its return with an ambitious and growing team directly supported by the Italian brand’s Reparto Corse division that’s dedicated to producing high-performance bicycles for use in professional racing.

“In recent years, Team Arkéa-Samsic has demonstrated growth by achieving its planned goals. The solid organisation and the international approach are two factors that we consider decisive, and in the coming years we want to contribute to efforts for achieving new targets and to be well represented in the World Tour”, said Bianchi CEO, Fabrizio Scalzotto.

The 2023 season will kick off at the summit of international cycling with the new Oltre RC, the recently launched and controversial Hyperbike “that has revolutionised the world of aero racing bikes” as Bianchi says.

Bianchi’s equipment dedicated to Team Arkéa-Samsic includes the Specialissima, the light and all-rounder that’s perfect for stage racing and climbing. For time trials, the Aquila will be the Arkéa-Samsic athletes’ ally, while Zolder Pro will return to the international stage of cyclocross.

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Bianchi highlights that it has rewritten the concept of a high-performance aerodynamic bicycle with the launch of the new Oltre platform, which is topped by the Oltre RC hyperbike and complemented by the Oltre Pro and Oltre models.

Created as a result of Bianchi Reparto Corse’s research and development, the Oltre RC is a revolution in terms of design and engineering with an aim to actively dominate and exploit airflow through engineering a perfectly integrated bike-athlete and frame-component system.

Bianchi states that the all-new Oltre is a revolutionary design thinking approach, defined by the introduction of Bianchi Air Deflector technology.

“The Bianchi Oltre RC sets a new technological standard in the cycling world,” said Bianchi’s CEO, Fabrizio Scalzotto. “With Oltre we started from scratch to create an unprecedented aero bike. It’s a project developed by our Reparto Corse that marks a turning point for the brand. The new Oltre family represents the first complete frame/component platform designed and manufactured entirely by Bianchi: from the frame to the handlebar system, plus the wheels, hubs, and saddles.”

“To develop the new Oltre project, Bianchi put the athlete at the center and the need to make him as fast as possible with the least use of energy,” commented Claudio Masnata, marketing and communications manager for Bianchi. “The first revolutionary element is the Air Deflectors, a technology inspired by the world of motor racing at the highest level to optimize aerodynamic efficiency in every situation.”

Bianchi designed and integrated Air Deflectors into the sides of the head tube, thus channelling airflow and creating a low-pressure zone at the rear of the tube. The action of the deflectors complements the performance of the new aero cockpit, which generates low-pressure air vortices directed toward the legs of the moving athlete through a centrally located hole.

The result is a significant reduction in aerodynamic resistance by the athlete-bike system, as certified by wind tunnel testing. In short, results proved higher speed with less effort.

Additionally, the new Oltre RC marks a departure from the previous range-topping XR4, by using a newly-developed aero cockpit by in-house components brand Reparto Corse.

The new handlebar unit replaces the externally sourced Vision Metron 5D integrated bar, featuring a steep rise and splits off into two, while the stem section stays as one piece until much closer to the handlebar intersection. Moreover, the split rises sharply to the handlebar tops, with a small carbon bridge adjoining the shoulders, forming an air channel that Bianchi says creates low-pressure vortices directed down the stem section towards the rider’s legs. Much like the Air Deflectors, this is said to reduce drag with rider aboard, all-in totalling a 17-watt saving at 50km/h.

“The advantage over the best aero bikes on the market increases by 30% variable wind conditions,” boasts Bianchi.

The new launch also sees the introduction of new Reparto Corse tubeless-ready RC50 SPB Tech and RC65 SPBTech wheels, which feature 50mm (front) and 65mm (rear) depths, and have a 21mm internal rim width.

The hubs incorporate what Bianchi calls “super precision bearing technology”, with SKF ceramic bearings included, weighing in at 1,540g.

Elsewhere, the Oltre Pro features the RC139 Carbon saddle and a set of RC50 tubeless-ready wheels (50mm profile front and rear, with a 21mm internal rim width), tipping the scales at a claimed 1,590g.

The Oltre RC comes fitted with a Reparto Corse-branded, RC139 “carbon air” saddle, which Bianchi says takes advantage of 3D-printing technology to provide a comfortable perch when riding in a typical aerodynamic position for long periods, while the Oltre Pro gets a non-3D printed version of the RC139 saddle.

As for the entry-level Oltre, the bike gets its wheels and finishing kit from third-party supplier Veloma.

All models will be available in November, with prices starting at €13,800 for the Oltre RC, €8,000 for the Oltre Pro and from €5,400 for the Oltre.

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It seems that SRAM offered a sponsorship amount that Shimano didn’t want to compete with. The team is now also free to switch to another manufacturer for various other products, such as the shoes. There is still an ongoing contract with Lazer helmets.

Since the foundation of the Rabobank team in 1996, Shimano has been involved in the Dutch team as an equipment sponsor.

Even when the team had to run as Blanco after 2012, Shimano remained loyal to Richard Plugge’s team during this difficult period. Because Shimano’s European headquarters has been located in the Netherlands for many years, there have always been strong ties between the team and the company.

After SRAM made an offer last summer to become Jumbo-Visma’s new sponsor, Shimano said last week that this amount was too high for them. The Japanese company is sponsoring eight WorldTour teams this year, there are also seven WorldTour teams that pay for the Shimano groups themselves.

Trek-Segafredo and Movistar are already on SRAM from the WorldTour teams. Campagnolo works together with AG2R Citroën, Cofidis and UAE Team Emirates. Rumour is that UAE Team Emirates may switch to Shimano next year.

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However, unlike previous C series models, the lugged construction of the C68 is less obvious to the eye, instead comprising a more seamless look, along with a more decidedly looking aerodynamic shape, especially the seatpost which borrows heavily from the brand’s V3Rs.

In particular, the down tube and head tube are formed from a single mold, while the top tube is joined with the head tube via an un-tapered Ceramic Speed SLT (Solid Lubrication Technology) headset that allows it to work with any measurement of stack.

Integration was also an important consideration when developing the C68, which features a newly designed monocoque handlebar and stem that claims to be both lighter and stiffer than a typical bonded construction.

The handlebar itself, relies on an interesting mix of angles, starting with an 85mm reach before dropping down to 122mm, while a 2cm flare has been added to the drops, resulting in a bar that’s both a little bit compact and a little bit traditional.

Additionally, Colnago was keen to make it compatible with internal routing for either disc and rim brake systems, as well as for both electronic and mechanical drivetrains.

Other features that highlight the C68 include a T47 bottom bracket system, along with 10-function multi-tool that’s hidden away under the top cap. Clearance is also up on the new frame, which can now accommodate tires up to 30mm.

All in, Collage says the C68 frame tips the scales at 930g for an unpainted size 51, a figure that won’t win any plaudits with the weight weenies crowd. But, the good news for traditionalists is, the frame is available in a rim brake version.

To further add to the exclusivity of the C68, each frame is assigned a NFC [near-field communication] tag, giving the frame its own digital passport that’s saved in the MyLime blockchain via the Colnago app. Think of it as being a certificate of authenticity without the paperwork.

The standard C68 with carbon lugs fetches a whopping €5,650, while a custom C68ti with 3D-printed titanium lugs will set you back €6,600.

Colnago also offers complete builds starting at €13,260 for SRAM Red eTap AXS with Zipp 303 wheels equipped bike, or for €14,065 customers can get one fitted with a Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 12-speed groupset with Shimano Dura-Ace C50 wheels.

For the aficionado, Colnago offers the C68 adorned with a Campagnolo Super Record EPS 12-speed bike with Bora Ultra WTO 45 wheels for a hefty €15,770.

For customers wanting custom geometry with titanium lugs, the price jumps to €16,780.

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The Australian team said goodbye to Giordana and teamed up with Alé for the new kits. The team changed the boring white-black line of 2021 and opted for white-blue jerseys.

The new apparel is reminiscent of the colors with which the illustrious Gerolsteiner was active in the peloton in the 2000s. For the first time in the team’s history, the Women’s WorldTeam has its own identity, with aubergine-like colours.

Coinciding with the announcement of the new outfit, BikeExchange-Jayco announced three new technical partners: Taiwanese bicycle manufacturer Giant and its sister company Liv, whose house colors are reflected in the shirts of the men’s and women’s teams, and Cadex, a manufacturer of bicycle components.

“It seems like yesterday that we began this adventure into WorldTour cycling with the first-ever Australian professional cycling team,” team owner Gerry Ryan said. “It makes us proud to partner with Giant as they re-join the men’s WorldTour peloton, it means that what we have done in the last decade and what we are bringing forward with our staff.”

The men’s roster new riders include Alex Balmer, Lawson Craddock, Dylan Groenewegen, Jan Maas, Kelland O’Brien, Jesús David Peña, Matteo Sobrero, and Campbell Stewart.

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“As a lifelong cyclist and someone who rides their bicycle every day to work, I could not be more excited for my new shared journey with Cannondale. The bikes we have created embody our common values and vision – blending beauty and desirability with a sense of responsibility to the next generation,” said McCartney.

Oddly, none of the bikes are for sale. Rather, they will be on display at Stella McCartney flagship stores in London, New York, Shanghai, and Tokyo.

“Unlike anything before, Cannondale has partnered with British fashion icon, Stella McCartney, on a series of limited edition SystemSix, SuperSix EVO and EVO CXs to create the boldest bike collection ever seen. Featuring the designs of three artists: Ed Cutis in London, Myfawnwy (Maisie Broome) in New York and Tom Tosseyn in Antwerp, the result is a unique interpretation of how the world’s fastest bikes can still embrace a completely different look”, says the American bike brand.

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At the end of last year there was a real change around in the peloton with regard to bike sponsors. Jumbo-Visma switched to Cervélo, DSM chose Scott and BikeExchange signed with Bianchi.

The collaboration between the Italian brand and the Australian team is not long-lasting, because Giant will supply BikeExchange with bikes for 2022.

That means Giant will return to the WorldTour. The last WT teams associated with the Taiwanese brand were CCC and Sunweb.

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The Dura-Ace R9200 will be available with Shimano’s new integrated power meter crankset set option and Servo Wave brake technology that’s brought over from the mountain bike/gravel line.

Here are some of the highlights that Shimano is touting:

• Rear derailleur shifting is 58% faster than previously, front derailleur is 45% faster
• Servo Wave tech offers finer braking control
• 10% wider brake pad and rotor clearances lead to a quieter system
• Separate bleed port and valve screw makes brake maintenance easier
• Adjusted shifter shape for greater comfort
• Increased button offset gives better control with gloves, wet fingers, etc.
• Larger 54-40T chainset is an option
• Revised ‘sweet spot’ gear jumps in new 11-34T cassette
  

Shifting

Shimano says it has improved the motor design in the derailleurs of its Di2 (electronic) system to increase shifting speed while also making the shifter-derailleur connection wireless, claiming a 58% decrease in rear derailleur operating time and a 45% decrease in front derailleur operating time.

Wires and Batteries

While, new Dura-Ace 9200 is semi-wireless, Shimano says that it still uses wires in certain areas for “absolute reliability”, with smaller diameter SD-300 wires connecting the Di2 battery (BT-DN300) to the front derailleur (FD-R9250), as well as the rear (RD-R9250).

“This single internal battery makes for a simple charging solution and ensures a stable and high voltage connection to the derailleurs,” says Shimano.

Additionally, a proprietary chip circuit, which Shimano claims has fast processing and low power consumption, is said to decrease the chance of interference from external devices.

According to Shimano, testing showed the BT-DN300 battery powers the derailleurs for 1,000km (625 miles) between charges (this calculation is based on distance: 45km/day; riding time: 2h/day; front derailleur shifts: 54 times/day; rear derailleur shifts: 370 times/day; does not include BLE/ANT+ communications; at 25° C), while the STI (Shimano Total Integration) shifter buttons are powered by CR1632 coin cells that will last about 1.5-2 years.

Also, The new RD-R9250 rear derailleur now has a hidden charging point (replacing Shimano’s SM-BCR2 charger), while also providing the connection to the STI shifters and to other third-party devices (replacing the EW-WU111 wireless unit), along with replacing the handlebar or in-frame Junction-A (SM-RS910).

Controls

The new 2×12-speed wireless hydraulic disc brake shifters (ST-R9270) have an adapted shaped with a raised head portion along with a slight inward curve and an increased area between the shifter and the handlebar.

“This provides riders with better index finger and thumb grip on the hoods and better three-finger grip behind the brake lever, while still giving easy access to the shift lever in the drops,” Shimano claims.

The offset between the Di2 buttons on the lever has also been increased which, according to Shimano, allows for better differentiation between the up-shift and down-shift buttons. This could be a big help with shifting when wearing gloves or when your fingers are cold and wet.

Cleaner Cockpit

The shifters are wireless which allows for easier installation than previously. Together with internal hose routing, this leaves a clean-looking cockpit area.

Cable ports can be used for the installation of remote shifter buttons: Shimano’s sprint (SW-R801-S) or climbing shifter (SW-R801-T). These work with a clamp band or can sit integrally in a specific port in a handlebar. The new Pro Vibe Evo bar has such a port.

These new more compact satellite shifter options either attach to the drops via a 100mm cable or to the tops via a 260 mm Di2 cable.

Drivetrain

The new Dura-Ace 12-speed Hyperglide+ cassette keeps the top 11T gear, but on the 11-30 option the “sweet spot” gears between the 6th, 7th and 8th sprockets have been revised for more consistent gear steps.

• 11-12-13-14-15-16-17-19-21-24-27-30T

Shimano promises that ramped profiles lead to smoother gear changes, even under heavy load, no matter whether you’re moving up or down the cassette.

“The result is that there is no longer any need to back off an acceleration or time an easy pedal stroke with your shifts,” Shimano claims.

Along with the new 11-30T cassette, there’s an 11-34T options:

• 11-12-13-14-15-17-19-21-24-27-30-34T

The cassettes have a new spline fitting pattern which is backwards compatible with Dura-Ace R9100 11-speed freehub bodies

Integrated Power Meter

There are two chainsets available: an integrated power meter version (FC-R9200-P) and the non-power reading version (FC-R9200).

Chainring combos are 50-34T, 52-36T or the new larger 54-40T option that “offers higher transmission efficiency than smaller chainring options and helps pro riders respond to ever-increasing speeds”, according to Shimano. Crank arm lengths span 160 to 177.5mm.

Shimano says that the integrated power meter offers 300+ hours of ride time between charges and 1.5% accuracy. It transmits via Bluetooth and ANT+.

Brakes

As mentioned, Shimano is bringing over the Servo Wave technology found in its mountain bike and gravel braking systems to the Dura-Ace brakes.

Riders have a shorter free stroke and are able to get a more immediate connection between brake pads and rotors, allowing for more feathering or modulation of the brakes, resulting in more speed carry-through and more confidence in technical situations,” Shimano claims. Brake noise has also been reduced, thanks to 10% wider brake pad and rotor clearances, as well as a switch to its RT-MT900 rotors.

The result is a quieter system, achieved through less heat deformation of the rotor and less temporary interference between the pad and the rotor,” claims Shimano.

Also, brake maintenance is promised to be easier with it now being possible to bleed the brake without removing the calliper from the frame thanks to a separate bleed port and valve screw.

A new funnel and bleed spacer also help improve the bleeding process, according to Shimano.

Ultegra R8100

Like the new top-level Dura-Ace 9200, Ultegra R8100 features semi-wireless shifting, meaning that the two derailleurs are wired to an internal battery but the shifters communicate wirelessly with the rest of the system. Also, Shimano says it’s  redesigned the shifters, derailleurs, cassettes, chainsets, brake callipers, and wheels. The Di2 EW-SD300 wiring and batteries are new too.

Here are the notable  features of Shimano Ultegra R8100:

• Second-tier groupset moves from 11-speed to 12-speed
• It’s available with Di2 (electronic shifting) only
• The shifters communicate wirelessly with the rest of the system
• Shimano claims faster derailleurs than previously
• Includes a power meter option for the first time
• Features full-carbon tubeless disc brake wheels
• Available for both disc brakes and rim brakes

Shifting

Like its Dura-Ace Di2 9200 counterpart, the new Ultegra features shifting that’s semi-wireless, with the front and rear derailleurs being connected by wires to an internal battery, while the shifters have their own batteries and communicate wirelessly with the rest of the system.

Shimano says, “Ultegra R8100 shares the same revised Di2 platform as Dura-Ace R9200 to improve shifting speed whilst making the shifter-derailleur connection wireless, and still ensuring absolute reliability.”

“The same new Di2 platform which improves the motor design in the derailleurs decreases the processing speed (the moving time between motor and gear mechanisms) and the transmission performance to enable Shimano’s fastest-ever shifting.”

Want some figures on that? Shimano says that the new rear derailleur is 58% quicker than the previous generation Dura-Ace while the front derailleur is 45% faster.

The new SD-300 wires that connect the Di2 battery (BT-DN300) to the front (FD-R8150) and rear derailleurs (RD-R8150) are of a smaller diameter than previously.

“One internal battery makes for a simple charging solution and ensures a stable and high voltage connection to the derailleurs,” says Shimano.

That battery is said to last 625 mile (1,000km) between charges, although the exact distance will obviously vary depending on use (if you want the details, Shimano’s calculation is based on riding 45km (28 miles) and two hours per day, with 54 front derailleur shifts and 370 rear derailleur shifts per ride; the temperature is 25°C , while the shifter buttons are powered by coin-style CR1632 batteries. Shimano claims they’ll last 1.5 to two years with typical use.

“A high security, fast processing and low power consumption proprietary chip circuit significantly decrease the chance of interference from external devices,” says Shimano.

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