Mike O'Connor
Bianchi has released a new generation of its Specialissima, its flagship lightweight all-round road bike, following what it says is a complete redesign from the brand’s Reparto Corse performance division.
What’s new?
The latest Specialissima has been developed as a ‘full system’ update rather than a simple frame revision, according to the company, with changes applied across the frame, fork, cockpit, and finishing components.
Bianchi says the aim has been to improve overall efficiency while retaining the bike’s established role as its lightweight all-rounder, positioned within its road range alongside the aero-focused Oltre and endurance-oriented Infinito CV.
The frame and system integration have been reworked, including a new integrated handlebar design and revised aerodynamic shaping across key contact points. That said, geometry is the same as the previous model, though Bianchi did say it has adjusted the handlebar reach and length following feedback from Bahrain Victorious.
Bianchi also continues its Countervail vibration-damping technology with the new rig, now updated with a ‘revised formulation’ intended to improve comfort and control without compromising stiffness.
Weight
The new Specialissima RC frame weighs 750g in a size 55, making it 40g lighter than the previous version. Bianchi states this makes it the lightest production road bike it has produced to date, while still maintaining stiffness levels comparable to the outgoing model.
Weight savings have also been supported by revisions to the fork, which gains a revised design with a stated 17% increase in aerodynamic efficiency, the seatpost, and integrated cockpit system.
Options and pricing
The Specialissima is offered in three build tiers. At the top sits the Specialissima RC, featuring the most advanced integration, RC 49R wheels, and options including SRAM Red AXS or Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 groupsets, priced at a hefty €11,550 MSRP ($19,000 AUD).
Below that, the Specialissima Pro uses an 850g frame with RC component integration and mid-tier race builds, including SRAM Force AXS or Shimano Ultegra Di2 options, priced at €7,700 ($12,600 AUD).
The standard Specialissima serves as the entry point into the range, with multiple drivetrain options including SRAM Rival AXS, Shimano Ultegra Di2 and Shimano 105 Di2, starting from €5,200 ($8,500 AUD).
Across the range, frame sizes run from 47cm to 59cm, and the RC model is also available through Bianchi’s Officina customisation programme with additional premium paint finishes.
Mike O’Connor – A keen cyclist, runner and photographer, Mike O’Connor is the Editor of Bicycling Australia. He manages the BA website and social media, and loves promoting the achievements of Australian cyclists.
