The best aero racing bikes 2022: If you want to ride a racing bike fast, you should only offer a small surface to attack the headwind - and this is best done with an aerodynamically optimized racing machine. Velomotion explains what it's all about and presents the ten best aerobikes for 2022.
It's nothing new that the headwind is a cyclist's worst enemy. And this is particularly true for racing cyclists, who are usually faster than "normal" cyclists: the air resistance does not increase linearly, but exponentially - double the speed means four times the air resistance and eight times the power!
While 30 km/h (at least when there is no wind) is a comfortable cruising speed for the average road cyclist, 35 km/h already feels quite exhausting, and for anything above that you have to work really hard. So it makes sense to reduce the air resistance that man and machine offer as much as possible - although it can be assumed that around 80% are due to the former. Tight-fitting bike clothing that doesn't flap and a streamlined helmet are a good tip to start with - and of course keeping your posture as compact as possible on the bike.
Aero road bikes for extra speed
If you want to get even more out of it, you can't avoid an aerodynamic wheelset with "deep" rims; the next step is one of the popular aero racing bikes with aerodynamically optimized tube shapes. To put it simply, it is about reducing the frontal area of all components on the one hand and achieving an even flow of air along the bike on the other. A stall that creates braking turbulence must be prevented for the aero concept to work. The aerodynamic properties of frames and complete bikes can be tested and improved in the wind tunnel; an important aspect is always the behavior in the event of lateral flow. Because wheels in particular can react sensitively to crosswinds. Classic V-shaped rims that taper to a point at the spoke seat have proven unfavorable; current aero rims are rounded on the inside and so wide that they form an aerodynamic unit with the tire.
Most aero road bike frames today share many features, such as low seatstays, a fork that fits tightly into the frame, and tear-off edges at certain points. Also typical is a scalloped seat tube that sits close to the rear tire; current aero race machines can be ridden with 28mm wide tires, which absorb vibration better and offer slight advantages in rolling resistance. Pretty much all aero racing bikes have a stretched sitting position and a clear difference in height between saddle and handlebars, which is in clear contrast to comfortable endurance racers or even gravel bikes.
There is also a general agreement on the add-on parts: Today it is hardly possible without a one-piece handlebar-stem combination made of carbon with fully integrated cables and lines. Hats off if a manufacturer can already offer this in the mid-price range of aero road bikes; the design effort is high and the assembly more complex.
What do all these measures achieve? With the SystemSix, Cannondale speaks of 50 watts less power at 48 km/h - a speed that only top athletes can drive continuously. But at 35 km/h - a realistic value for the reasonably well-trained athlete - the bike still saves 26 watts, which corresponds to about 10% of the power required for this speed. One must not forget how much the wind increases the power requirement.
On the other hand, the fact that an aero racing bike can quickly be a whopping kilo heavier than a model with flat rims and a slim frame can safely be ignored - the weight plays a much smaller role in terms of riding resistance than air resistance, even when accelerating. If you want to cycle as fast as possible, you can't avoid one of the bolides presented below.
Bulls Alpine Hawk Team Di2
The mountain bike specialists from Bulls also know what is important when it comes to racing bikes and have significantly modernized their model range. First up was the carbon gravel bike Machete, now comes the new Alpine Hawk, which is visually closely related to the off-roader and fits perfectly into the scene of modern aero racing bikes - even if the Bulls doesn't look quite as flat as its competitors . The low rear stays and the shape of the head tube and down tube are typical “aero”; on the other hand, the seat post is not flat, but cross-oval in the sense of pronounced shock absorption. The seat clamp is elegantly integrated, as befits a top-class road bike today; all lines are routed in the one-piece carbon cockpit from FSA, which ensures the typical "clean" look of a modern racing machine.
However, many a detail of the Alpine Hawk shows that this racing bike was not only designed for minimal air resistance. The gap between the rear tire and the grooved seat tube is relatively large, because instead of the 28 mm Schwalbe Pro One TLE mounted on the sample bike, full 32 mm wide tires can also be mounted. And if the head tube seems comparatively long, a good eye proves it: In relation to the seat length (“reach”), the Bulls is around three centimeters higher on the handlebars (“stack”) than the typical aero-road models of the competition, which reduces the seating position becomes much more upright on the Cologne bike. No wonder, since it wants to be an all-rounder rather than a specialist - a racing machine with aerodynamic features, but which also suits athletes who want more comfort and sometimes want to ride on rougher surfaces.
Last but not least, Bulls also appeals to price-conscious cyclists with its top model: The Team Di2 costs just 5.699 euros, which is surprising in view of the absolutely top-class equipment. The FSA cockpit alone and the aero wheels from Mavic with 45 mm deep rims (tubeless-compatible like the tires) together cost around 2.000 euros; In addition, this bike offers a complete Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 with 2×12 gears - it couldn't be better. With 50/34 teeth on the bottom bracket and an 11-34 cassette, the gear ratio is again adapted to recreational athletes, not to racers - with this, Bulls also shows that they have dealt very carefully with their target group. With Shimano 105 2×11, the Alpine Hawk is available for 2.399 euros; there are also two models with Ultegra – 2×11 and 2×12 Di2.
Conclusion
With the new Alpine Hawk, Bulls presents an all-rounder with a clear aero orientation and a lot of comfort, which is available in four versions at extremely attractive prices.
WEB: bulls.de
Cannondale System Six
The US provider confidently describes its top model as the "fastest racing bike in the world" and also provides data that should prove that the SystemSix saves up to 48 watts at 20 km/h compared to well-known competitors. How it works? Of course, only by carefully considering all the details, whereby the SystemSix is by no means extremely designed. The tubes are rounded at the front and squared off at the rear – the famous “Kammtail”, i.e. a truncated teardrop shape that has proven to be ideal for both bicycle frames and automobiles. The widened down tube in the area of the bottle holder holes, which is supposed to take the drinking bottle out of the wind, is striking. The flat top tube is almost horizontal, the tires (maximum 28 mm) sit close to the down and seat tubes. The head tube, which is extended towards the front, houses the brake lines; The handlebar and stem are separate, so the angle of the handlebar can be varied by 8°.
Cannondale is known for its wide range of sizes. With the SystemSix there are seven frame sizes to choose from, all of which have an aggressive seat geometry with a significant overhang. The steering geometry promises maneuverability and good straight-line stability.
If you want to know whether the SystemSix is really the fastest racing bike in the world, you don't have to dig quite as deep into your pocket as with some other suppliers. The bike with mechanical Ultegra 5.699×2 and Vision carbon wheels is available for just 11 euros, with the shift cables running between the handlebars and the down tube on the outside. With the new Shimano Ultgra Di2 2×12, the bike already costs 8.599 euros, with the current Dura-Ace 11.99 euros. Cannondale does not currently offer a frame set for self-assembly.
Conclusion
The fastest road bike in the world? It is clear that the SystemSix has what it takes to record best times on any terrain and is definitely one of the fastest aero road bikes of 2022. The range of sizes is also a plus, the narrow range of models is less good.
WEB: cannondale. com
Canyon Aeroad CFR
With the Aeroad CFR, the people from Koblenz have "the fastest racing bike on the market" in their range, tailored to the professional cyclists equipped by the company - hence the CFR = "Canyon Factory Racing". There are also the cheaper versions CF SL and SLX made of other fiber material, whereby the SL version can also be built with mechanical shifting systems.
Visually, the different frames do not differ, which also means that they play in the same aerodynamic league. The ever-refining Aeroad features a flat seat tube that sits less tightly on the front tire than comparable race machines; The seat tube and rear stays are also flat, resulting in a harmonious overall picture. Of course, this also includes a sword-shaped seat post with an invisibly integrated clamp. The top models are equipped with a one-piece cockpit that allows the handlebar width to be adjusted by a total of 40 mm - a unique feature that comes into play when there is a strong headwind one day and a lot of climbing has to be done the next. In addition, the stem can be raised by 15 mm.
Seat and steering geometry of the Aeroad are not very different from those of other suppliers. The posture on the bike is sporty and stretched; with rather steep angles, the Canyon is handy and very directional. The Koblenz-based brand is always surprising because of the high level of comfort given the aero shape - the sword-shaped seat post in particular has a vibration-reducing effect.
As befits a professional bike, the Canyon Aeroad CFR is only available with top equipment. Let's start with Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 11-speed for 8.499 euros; the top model "MvdP" as a homage to Matthieu van der Poel costs 9.000 euros. The “Disc Frame and Brake Kit” is unusual – a frame set with a cockpit on which Sram disc brakes and levers are pre-installed (€4.499). The cheapest Aeroad CF SL costs 3.399 euros.
Conclusion
The Aeroad has a harmonious and balanced design. This bike is also used in professional sports and should meet the requirements of almost all cyclists - and all cyclists, for whom the Aeroad WMN is available with coordinated components and in small sizes.
WEB: canyon. com
Cervélo S5
The Canadians are among the inventors of aero racing bikes and drew attention to themselves right from the start with streamlined tube shapes, flat seat posts and internal cables. The S5 was presented for the first time in 2011 and was probably the most radical aero racer at the time with the almost vertical seat post, the seat tube nestled close to the tires and the tightly fitted fork. The current model continues many of these features and is even more extreme at the front: The fork covers the head tube and merges almost seamlessly into the V-shaped stem, which minimizes air resistance on the one hand and cable routing on the other optimized. Stem and handlebar are two parts, so the angle of the handlebar can be adjusted; Height adjustment with spacers is also possible.
The seating position is as aggressive as it should be for an aero racing bike: on the S5 you sit with a clear stretch and a lot of elevation. The geometry is balanced, with a short wheelbase and slightly steeper steering angle ensuring maneuverability. The wheels are attached with RAT thru axles - a quarter turn is enough to loosen the bayonet lock. Cervélo releases tires up to 28 mm wide, which stands for contemporary comfort and rolling resistance.
Cervélo offers the S5 as a frame set in five sizes (€4.999) and in five configurations between €6.399 and €11.999 – all with electronic shifting and, except for the entry-level model with Sram Rival, equipped with deep carbon wheels. You can hardly ride a racing bike faster.
Conclusion
The Cervélo R5 has a long history and is still one of the best aero racers on the market today. Of course, its radical look is not for the shy.
WEB: cervelo.com
Cube Litening C:68X SLT
Nowadays, if you outfit a professional team, you also have to play along when it comes to aero racing bikes. At Cube, the C:68X takes this place - a bike that first of all catches the eye with its very attractive price, because the top version with Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 2×12 costs only 7.099 euros. Purebred aero wheels are already included - at the front with a 50 mm deep rim that is less sensitive to side winds, at the rear with an aerodynamically optimized 65 mm rim.
The typical aero features can also be found on this frame: the fork is fitted closely to the frame, the head tube, down tube and seat tube have a truncated teardrop profile, with the seat tube also being grooved. The small “fin” on the low rear struts catches the eye. If you only mount one bottle cage, you can position it on the down tube closer to the bottom bracket; for this purpose there are three tapped holes.
The seat geometry of the Cube is a bit more stretched than that of the competition, but the 56 mm wheel has a stem that is only 100 mm long - in combination with a short wheelbase and a rather steep steering angle, this should ensure very manageable steering behavior. It is also noticeable that the stem of the one-piece carbon cockpit is almost horizontal, which brings the handlebars down a few millimeters. This results in a significant elevation, as racing drivers would like. The slightly angular ergonomic shape of the handlebar arches is rather unusual today.
With the brand new Shimano Dura-Ace, the Litening is really professionally equipped; The transmission of the crankset with 52/36 teeth is also tailored to professional drivers. The other equipment variants do not differ from the top model in this respect either; Of course, it is noticeable that even the cheapest version of the bike for 4.599 euros is better equipped than the top model of some brands at a significantly higher price - with Sram Force 2×12 and 50 mm carbon wheels.
Conclusion
The Cube Litening pleases as an aerodynamically optimised, aggressively priced racing machine with professional flair. All model variants are equipped to a high standard and are already specified with aero wheels.
WEB: cube.eu
Storck Aerofast.4
How do you stand out from the multitude of aero road bikes? The new Storck Aerfast 4 Pro Disc causes a stir with its bright look and particularly eye-catching fork. Because the aerobike, which shines in metallic green, shows itself with a fork that has been completely redeveloped in the wind tunnel and is very wide and bulbous. In addition, a new aero cockpit and an aerodynamically optimized seat post are installed, which, in combination with the other aero features, are intended to ensure the decisive saving in wattage. The optimized DT Swiss high-profile wheels, each with a rim height of 62mm, should also play their part and make brisk rides child's play. The top model is already available for 7.799 euros and comes with a Sram AXS eTap Red in the best Made-in-Germany quality.
In addition to the fork and attachments, the frame is also bursting with aero features. Every tube shape is designed to get the last watt out and still offer a largely comfortable ride. Storck's latest aero racer has also tried to stay true to its DNA and bring some playfulness into the mix, which is made possible by slightly shorter chainstays and top tube. This also gives you a balanced seating position. The lowered seatstays also significantly improve the comfort of the bike.
In addition to the top model with the Sram Red eTap AXS, the new aero model from Storck also comes with other equipment variants, but only with electronic wireless shifters. Both SRAM and Shimano groupsets are used. The entry-level model with Sram Rival eTap is priced at 5.799 euros, the Ultegra Di2 variant is 5.999 euros.
Conclusion
If you like extravagant looks and decent speed, the Storck Aerobike is definitely the right choice. Not only the color and shape should catch the eye, but also the attractive price makes you prick up your ears. The somewhat more playful geometry should bring an additional dose of fun.
WEB: storck-bikes.com
Pinarello Dogma F
Racing drivers on Pinarello racing machines were able to achieve a total of 15 overall victories in the Tour de France. If you look at the cycling history books, you have to realize that Pinarello is the most successful cycling brand still in existence at the Tour of France. A number of successes have already been celebrated on the latest Pinarello model this spring. With the Pinarello Dogma F, the Italian manufacturer wants to combine first-class aerodynamic properties with an adequate weight for the mountain stages. If you take a look at the manufacturer's wind tunnel values, the Dogma F can actually be far ahead and also allows a total weight of less than 7 kilos. This means that the Dogma can not only be counted among the class of aero racing bikes.
At first glance, it remains true to its classic shapes and continues to rely on curved lines. The Onda fork has also been part of the unmistakable Pinarello technology since 2000 and wants to offer stability and comfort on the Dogma F. According to the manufacturer, the tube profiles of the Italian aerobike are not only designed for low wind resistance, but should even generate propulsion in crosswinds.
Another highlight (at least by Pinarello standards) are the disc brakes, because the Dogma F is available for the first time as a version with disc or rim brakes. The aero racing bike with rim brakes should be a little lighter, but also generate more air resistance. With disc brakes, of course, better braking performance is at the top alongside slight aero advantages.
The Pinarello Dogma is offered in eleven frame sizes with different colors and equipment variants from Shimano, Sram and Campagnolo. Basically you have the possibility to have every Dogma F built according to your own ideas and to bring your desired components to one of the Italian aero racing bikes. Riders can also access the completely revised Most Talon cockpit and a seat post with two different offset options. Prices range from around 8.999 euros for the cheapest version with a Shimano Ultegra Di2 12-speed to one of the top models with one Sram AXS eTap wheel for 14.999 euros.
Conclusion
With the Pinarello Dogma F, the traditional Italian manufacturer is finally offering a high-end bike with discs. As usual, the shapes are special and reflect the brand's own character. On paper, an absolute superbike that combines aero properties with lightweight.
WEB: pinarell0.com
Orbea Orca Aero
The Orbea Orca Aero has been one of the fastest racing bikes on the market for a number of years, because it is not for nothing that the Spanish manufacturer gave the Orca the suffix Aero. With the revised variant of the Spaniards, however, they did not only concentrate on the aerodynamics, but also tried to find the perfect balance between the decisive performance characteristics.
In the past, when developing bikes (including aero racing bikes), the focus was mostly on the three areas of aerodynamics, stiffness and weight. Experience has shown that concentrating on just one of these three points hardly brings any significant improvements, and excessive compromises in all of these points do not automatically make the bike better. Orbea asked themselves whether these three critical performance factors are even sufficient to develop a top-class aero bike.
As a result of this idea, the factors of ergonomics and handling were also added in order to be able to offer a comprehensive concept that offers more driving fun and better performance in all areas. Because a lighter frame with aerodynamic tube shapes alone does not ensure maximum speed.
Added to this is the racing geometry, which is specially tailored to the Orca Aero, which offers a sporty seating position and is aimed at real racing drivers. The dimensions of the tubes were matched to each individual frame size in order to get the most out of every driver and to be able to offer first-class performance. This was made possible, among other things, by the high-quality OMX carbon fiber, which ensures high efficiency and the necessary propulsion thanks to a specially adapted layup. For the comfort and versatility factor, Orbea has also increased the tire clearance to up to 30mm on its new Orca Aero in order to be able to offer an additional improvement in these areas. In addition, the integration of drinking bottles and accessory box has been cleverly solved and turned into an aerodynamic advantage
The Orbea Orca Aero has a total of 6 equipment variants plus the frame set. The top model M10iLTD with a complete Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 12-speed group and the new Dura-Ace C50 wheels is available from 9.999 euros, while the M20LTD model with mechanical Ultegra 11-speed is available for 4.199 euros. Nevertheless, with Orbea you have the possibility with the MyO concept to design the aerobike individually and to adapt it to your own wishes and needs. Regardless of whether you want to use different colors, design elements or components, all building blocks can be adjusted in the configurator for an individual experience.
Conclusion
When a manufacturer like Orbea gives the name suffix Aero, they mean it quite seriously. Not only the tube shapes, but also the clever integration of drinking bottles or accessory containers show that the bikes belong to the class of aero racing bikes. It's almost surprising that the wheels only have 50mm rims.
WEB: orbea.com
Simplon Pride II
A few years ago, the Simplon Pride caused quite a stir with its split stem. Now the Simplon Pride 2 is a completely revised version of the Austrians' aero racer. But what remains is the iconic split stem. Aerodynamics are to be raised to a new level with new, larger-area tube shapes. The flat head tube and the raised bottom bracket area are particularly striking. A number of numerical flow simulations and wind tunnel tests were carried out together with the aerodynamics specialists from Swiss Side in order to meet our own claim to the fastest bike in the world. The bike should also be interesting for triathletes, as it is offered with a special cockpit and is therefore not just one of the popular aero racing bikes.
It will be exciting to see how the bike can be ridden in cross wind conditions, because in addition to the large frame, the at least 60mm wheels should not be underestimated. Nevertheless, it is clear at first glance that everything is being put on the "Aero" card and that no compromises are to be made. Accordingly, the geometry of the Simplon Aerobike is also extremely sporty and leaves little room for maneuver in its pure form. The aerodynamic values of the manufacturer confirm this impressively. With a total weight of almost 8 kilos, you have to put up with a slight disadvantage on the mountain.
Nevertheless, Simplon also has a corresponding configurator, which offers many options and takes your own needs into account. The two-piece handlebar and stem construction can be selected from four widths for the flat aero base handlebar and three stem heights. In addition to the cockpit, you can have your bike equipped with wheels, cranks, cassettes and power meters. The basic version of the Pride is available from 5.999 euros, depending on the configuration you should get twice as much with the top model with Sram Red AXS eTap or Shimano Dura-Ace 12-speed and the DT Swiss high-profile wheels.
Conclusion
Even at first glance, the Simplon Pride 2 is a real statement for aero racing bikes. The manufacturer's wind tunnel values confirm this impression. Due to the large frame, you have to take some extra weight into account.
WEB: simplon.com
Scott Foil RCPro
The Scott Foil RC is a real all-rounder among aerobikes. This is also shown by the track record, because with stage wins at all major tours, podium finishes at Milan-San Remo, Liège-Bastogne-Liège and Paris-Roubaix, the Foil RC Pro is one of the most versatile aero racing bikes in the professional field. The HMX carbon fiber frame is designed to shave off the extra seconds you need while not adding extra weight. The Foil RC Pro with Dura-Ace Di2 12-speed and Zipp 303 weighs just 7,2 kilos. With the completely integrated relocation and specially designed Syncros Cockpit, you want to create additional advantages. If you also want to optimize the bike for aerodynamics, you can do this with even faster wheels with a higher rim height.
The carbon frame offers an attractively sporty seating position, which can also be toned down a bit with spacers. Despite the sporty race character of the new foil, the necessary comfort should not be missing. This is made possible by the seat stays, which are offset downwards. This targeted approach to improving the comfort of the Scott Foil has also resulted in a significant improvement in power transfer by making the frame more stable.
The Scott Foil RC is available in four trim levels. While the top model with Dura-Ace Di2 and Zipp 303 wheels is available for 9.499 euros, you can bring real foil RC performance home from 4.299 euros. This model then comes with a mechanical Shimano Ultegra group and Syncros wheels.
Conclusion
A real all-rounder among the aero racing bikes that has had more success in the professional peloton than almost any other. The balanced concept offers the necessary performance on all levels and also allows for individual fine-tuning in some places.
WEB: scott-sports.com