{"id":45506,"date":"2023-01-11T19:15:29","date_gmt":"2023-01-11T18:15:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/?p=712608"},"modified":"2023-01-11T19:34:18","modified_gmt":"2023-01-11T18:34:18","slug":"the-groupset-battle-wages-on-and-a-tan-wall-takeover-10-road-tech-trends-and-predictions-for-2023","status":"publish","type":"rss_feed","link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/rss_feed\/the-groupset-battle-wages-on-and-a-tan-wall-takeover-10-road-tech-trends-and-predictions-for-2023\/","title":{"rendered":"The groupset battle wages on and a tan-wall takeover | 10 road tech trends and predictions for 2023"},"content":{"rendered":"

<\/p>

By George Scott\n \t\t<\/p>

Published: Wednesday, 11 January 2023 at 12:00 am<\/p>

\n\n

Mechanical vs electronic groupsets, the growing ubiquity of integrated cockpits, tubeless tyres and the validity (or not) of hookless rims \u2013 we may be into a new year, but some of the most controversial topics in road tech are still set to dominate headlines and cycling club group chats in 2023.<\/p>\n

Following hot on the heels of our MTB team\u2019s tech predictions<\/a>, it\u2019s time for our road experts to weigh in with the trends that will define skinny-tyred bikes this year.<\/p>\n

If these predictions are anything to go by, it\u2019s going to be a red-hot year for groupsets at both ends of the price spectrum, we could see a challenger brand emerge at the Tour de France and aerodynamic know-how will continue to evolve apace.<\/p>\n

You can listen to the thoughts of Warren, Liam, Ash and Simon in the podcast below \u2013 or read on for more.<\/p>\n\n<h2>Warren Rossiter | Senior technical editor<\/h2>\n<h3>Electronic groupsets will spread further down the food chain<\/h3>\n<div class=\""image-handler__container\" image-handler__container--aspect=\"\" style=\""padding-bottom:\" calc=\"\"> <picture><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/06\/MPX44839-4f6636a.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=299%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/06\/MPX44839-4f6636a.jpg?quality=90&resize=299%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/06\/MPX44839-4f6636a.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/06\/MPX44839-4f6636a.jpg?quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/06\/MPX44839-4f6636a.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=404%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/06\/MPX44839-4f6636a.jpg?quality=90&resize=404%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/06\/MPX44839-4f6636a.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/06\/MPX44839-4f6636a.jpg?quality=90&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/06\/MPX44839-4f6636a.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/06\/MPX44839-4f6636a.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/06\/MPX44839-4f6636a.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=407%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/06\/MPX44839-4f6636a.jpg?quality=90&resize=407%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/06\/MPX44839-4f6636a.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/06\/MPX44839-4f6636a.jpg?quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><img class=\""wp-image-685880\" align=\"\" size-landscape_thumbnail=\"\" image-handler__image=\"\" image-handler__image--aspect=\"\" no-wrap=\"\" js-lazyload=\"\" data-src=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/06\/MPX44839-4f6636a.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413"\" width=\""620"\" height=\""413"\" alt=\"""\" title=\"""\"\/><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><div class=\""caption-hold"\"><figcaption class=\""wp-caption-text"\"><span class=\""caption-copy"\"><i class=\""icon-arrow\" icon-camera-circle=\"\"\/> There\u2019s no doubt that 105 Di2 has pushed up the price of Shimano\u2019s third-tier groupset but, with the proliferation of electronic drivetrains, some bike brands will look capitalise with relative bargains.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\""im-image-caption"\"> <i>Wilier <\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/electronic-groupsets\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">Electronic groupsets<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\"> have for the most part been reserved for only elite-priced bikes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Shimano <\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/features\/shimano-105-di2-weight\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">brought us 105 Di2 in 2022<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\"> and, while it\u2019s nigh-on twice the price of 105 mechanical, it can be found on bikes from around \u00a32,299, so it\u2019s much better value on complete bikes than as an aftermarket upgrade.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">SRAM, on the other hand, set a precedent with a huge price reduction on Force AXS after it had been on the market for a year or so. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">If it does the same with Rival AXS \u2013 a groupset that\u2019s already the most affordable electronic drivetrain on the market \u2013 that will bring the tech down to a lower level again.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>We\u2019re not talking bargain-basement prices by any means but, longer term, the proliferation of electronic groupsets should, in theory, result in a reduced outlay as the tech takes hold on mid-range machines.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">I wouldn\u2019t even put it beyond SRAM to bring eTap down to the fourth step on its groupset ladder.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/news\/sram-apex-etap-axs-groupset\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">Apex eTap AXS<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\">, anyone?<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Aero road bikes will make a comeback<\/h3>\n<div class=\""image-handler__container\" image-handler__container--aspect=\"\" style=\""padding-bottom:\" calc=\"\"> <picture><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/03\/Specialized-S-works-Venge-01-159e2a5.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=298%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/03\/Specialized-S-works-Venge-01-159e2a5.jpg?quality=90&resize=298%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/03\/Specialized-S-works-Venge-01-159e2a5.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/03\/Specialized-S-works-Venge-01-159e2a5.jpg?quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/03\/Specialized-S-works-Venge-01-159e2a5.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=403%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/03\/Specialized-S-works-Venge-01-159e2a5.jpg?quality=90&resize=403%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/03\/Specialized-S-works-Venge-01-159e2a5.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=553%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/03\/Specialized-S-works-Venge-01-159e2a5.jpg?quality=90&resize=553%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/03\/Specialized-S-works-Venge-01-159e2a5.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=619%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/03\/Specialized-S-works-Venge-01-159e2a5.jpg?quality=90&resize=619%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/03\/Specialized-S-works-Venge-01-159e2a5.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=406%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/03\/Specialized-S-works-Venge-01-159e2a5.jpg?quality=90&resize=406%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/03\/Specialized-S-works-Venge-01-159e2a5.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/03\/Specialized-S-works-Venge-01-159e2a5.jpg?quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><img class=\""wp-image-436035\" align=\"\" size-landscape_thumbnail=\"\" image-handler__image=\"\" image-handler__image--aspect=\"\" no-wrap=\"\" js-lazyload=\"\" data-src=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/03\/Specialized-S-works-Venge-01-159e2a5.jpg?quality=90&resize=619%2C413"\" width=\""620"\" height=\""413"\" alt=\"""\" title=\"""\"\/><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><div class=\""caption-hold"\"><figcaption class=\""wp-caption-text"\"><span class=\""caption-copy"\"><i class=\""icon-arrow\" icon-camera-circle=\"\"\/> A return of the Specialized Venge would undoubtedly be one of the biggest tech stories of the year.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\""im-image-caption"\"> <i>Tom Wragg<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\"><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/best-aero-road-bike\/"\">Aero road bikes<\/a> have evolved significantly over the last few years, with a coming together of the aero and lightweight categories.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Specialized mashed up the aero Venge and the Tarmac for the SL7, Giant put the Propel on a diet, and even Cerv\u00e9lo \u2013 among the pioneers of aero bikes \u2013 simplified the S5.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Now, with a <\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/features\/tech\/2023-uci-rule-changes\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">little relaxation of the UCI\u2019s rules<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\">, I bet there are a few aero designers chomping at the bit to get back to pushing watt-saving boundaries.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Maybe a return of the Venge isn\u2019t out of the question, and Cannondale could update the SystemSix to make it even more slippery than it is now.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Integration will become (even more) the norm<\/h3>\n<div class=\""image-handler__container\" image-handler__container--aspect=\"\" style=\""padding-bottom:\" calc=\"\"> <picture><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/12\/20201204_SB_5DSR_MG_3609-b9304db.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=299%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/12\/20201204_SB_5DSR_MG_3609-b9304db.jpg?quality=90&resize=299%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/12\/20201204_SB_5DSR_MG_3609-b9304db.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/12\/20201204_SB_5DSR_MG_3609-b9304db.jpg?quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/12\/20201204_SB_5DSR_MG_3609-b9304db.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=404%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/12\/20201204_SB_5DSR_MG_3609-b9304db.jpg?quality=90&resize=404%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/12\/20201204_SB_5DSR_MG_3609-b9304db.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/12\/20201204_SB_5DSR_MG_3609-b9304db.jpg?quality=90&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/12\/20201204_SB_5DSR_MG_3609-b9304db.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/12\/20201204_SB_5DSR_MG_3609-b9304db.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/12\/20201204_SB_5DSR_MG_3609-b9304db.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=407%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/12\/20201204_SB_5DSR_MG_3609-b9304db.jpg?quality=90&resize=407%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/12\/20201204_SB_5DSR_MG_3609-b9304db.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/12\/20201204_SB_5DSR_MG_3609-b9304db.jpg?quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><img class=\""wp-image-610221\" align=\"\" size-landscape_thumbnail=\"\" image-handler__image=\"\" image-handler__image--aspect=\"\" no-wrap=\"\" js-lazyload=\"\" data-src=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2020\/12\/20201204_SB_5DSR_MG_3609-b9304db.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413"\" width=\""620"\" height=\""413"\" alt=\"""\" title=\"""\"\/><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><div class=\""caption-hold"\"><figcaption class=\""wp-caption-text"\"><span class=\""caption-copy"\"><i class=\""icon-arrow\" icon-camera-circle=\"\"\/> FSA\u2019s ACR system runs cables and hydraulic hoses internally. Expect to see integration even more in 2023.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\""im-image-caption"\"> <i>Simon Bromley \/ Immediate Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Love it or loathe it, the integration of cockpits into complete bike designs is the go-to for mid-to-high-end bikes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">With the total blanket of <\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/features\/road-disc-brakes-everything-you-need-to-know\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">disc brakes on road bikes<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\"> now, and both Shimano and SRAM having wireless shifting of sorts, hiding hydraulic hoses is where it\u2019s at.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">You don\u2019t have to develop your own complex system either (anyone remember how wild the <\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/reviews\/bikes\/road-bikes\/specialized-s-works-venge-vias-first-ride-video-review\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">Specialized Venge Vias<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\"> was?), with brands such as FSA (with its ACR cable-routing system) and Deda (with DCR) offering off-the-peg internal solutions that are already in use by the likes of Merida and Wilier.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Whether all of this integration works for everyone is <\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/features\/opinion\/internal-cable-routing-has-gone-too-far\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">another question altogether<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Endurance bikes split into two categories<\/h3>\n<div class=\""image-handler__container\" image-handler__container--aspect=\"\" style=\""padding-bottom:\" calc=\"\"> <picture><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Cannondale-Synapse-Carbon-LTD-RLE-01-a9846b1.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=298%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Cannondale-Synapse-Carbon-LTD-RLE-01-a9846b1.jpg?quality=90&resize=298%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Cannondale-Synapse-Carbon-LTD-RLE-01-a9846b1.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Cannondale-Synapse-Carbon-LTD-RLE-01-a9846b1.jpg?quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Cannondale-Synapse-Carbon-LTD-RLE-01-a9846b1.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=403%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Cannondale-Synapse-Carbon-LTD-RLE-01-a9846b1.jpg?quality=90&resize=403%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Cannondale-Synapse-Carbon-LTD-RLE-01-a9846b1.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=553%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Cannondale-Synapse-Carbon-LTD-RLE-01-a9846b1.jpg?quality=90&resize=553%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Cannondale-Synapse-Carbon-LTD-RLE-01-a9846b1.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=619%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Cannondale-Synapse-Carbon-LTD-RLE-01-a9846b1.jpg?quality=90&resize=619%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Cannondale-Synapse-Carbon-LTD-RLE-01-a9846b1.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=406%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Cannondale-Synapse-Carbon-LTD-RLE-01-a9846b1.jpg?quality=90&resize=406%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Cannondale-Synapse-Carbon-LTD-RLE-01-a9846b1.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Cannondale-Synapse-Carbon-LTD-RLE-01-a9846b1.jpg?quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><img class=\""wp-image-677539\" align=\"\" size-landscape_thumbnail=\"\" image-handler__image=\"\" image-handler__image--aspect=\"\" no-wrap=\"\" js-lazyload=\"\" data-src=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Cannondale-Synapse-Carbon-LTD-RLE-01-a9846b1.jpg?quality=90&resize=619%2C413"\" width=\""620"\" height=\""413"\" alt=\"""\" title=\"""\"\/><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><div class=\""caption-hold"\"><figcaption class=\""wp-caption-text"\"><span class=\""caption-copy"\"><i class=\""icon-arrow\" icon-camera-circle=\"\"\/> The latest Cannondale Synapse is a bike that\u2019s all about usability for everyday riders, rather than the lofty whims of professionals. Is this a new direction for endurance bikes?<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\""im-image-caption"\"> <i>Dave Caudery \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">While I really don\u2019t want yet another genre of bike to confuse riders and testers alike, <a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/best-endurance-road-bikes\/"\">endurance bikes<\/a> are already showing signs of splintering, with racy endurance machines in one corner and sportive-style or all-road bikes in the other.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Let\u2019s take some of the biggest hitters on the market right now. <a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/reviews\/bikes\/road-bikes\/giant-defy-advanced-0-review\/"\">Giant\u2019s Defy<\/a> remains a classic endurance platform. It\u2019s light, agile and comfortable \u2013 all the things that make a classic endurance bike great \u2013 but surely a new Defy is due soon, so it\u2019ll be interesting to see which direction it goes in next.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Elsewhere, the new <a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/reviews\/bikes\/road-bikes\/trek-domane-slr-7-p1-review\/"\">Trek Domane<\/a> has gone on a diet and returned to its Classics racing roots. On the flipside, <a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/news\/2023-cannondale-synapse-al\/"\">Cannondale\u2019s revamped Synapse<\/a> all but ignored racing (the early models on launch didn\u2019t even have UCI certification), with big tyre clearances and integrated tech \u2013 lights and a radar no less. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">This is an endurance bike capable of light gravel work and built for real-world riders, not the racers who used to flirt with endurance bikes in the Spring Classics.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Back to new launches and it\u2019ll be intriguing to see where Specialized goes with the Roubaix, given the brand already has two distinct types of gravel bike: the super-light (and super-expensive) <a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/reviews\/bikes\/gravel-bikes\/specialized-s-works-crux-review\/"\">Crux<\/a> and the more rugged and versatile <a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/news\/2023-specialized-diverge-str\/"\">Diverge<\/a>, with its Future Shock suspension.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Where does a bike like the Roubaix fit into the endurance mix in 2023?<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Liam Cahill | Road and gravel video presenter<\/h2>\n<h3>High-end tan-wall road tubeless tyres play nice<\/h3>\n<div class=\""image-handler__container\" image-handler__container--full=\"\" style=\""padding-bottom:\" calc=\"\"> <picture><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/12\/Vittoria-Corsa-ProSpotted02-95871c6.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=300%2C200,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/12\/Vittoria-Corsa-ProSpotted02-95871c6.jpg?quality=90&resize=300%2C200,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/12\/Vittoria-Corsa-ProSpotted02-95871c6.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=355%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/12\/Vittoria-Corsa-ProSpotted02-95871c6.jpg?quality=90&resize=355%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/12\/Vittoria-Corsa-ProSpotted02-95871c6.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=405%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/12\/Vittoria-Corsa-ProSpotted02-95871c6.jpg?quality=90&resize=405%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/12\/Vittoria-Corsa-ProSpotted02-95871c6.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/12\/Vittoria-Corsa-ProSpotted02-95871c6.jpg?quality=90&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/12\/Vittoria-Corsa-ProSpotted02-95871c6.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/12\/Vittoria-Corsa-ProSpotted02-95871c6.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/12\/Vittoria-Corsa-ProSpotted02-95871c6.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=408%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/12\/Vittoria-Corsa-ProSpotted02-95871c6.jpg?quality=90&resize=408%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/12\/Vittoria-Corsa-ProSpotted02-95871c6.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=556%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/12\/Vittoria-Corsa-ProSpotted02-95871c6.jpg?quality=90&resize=556%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><img class=\""wp-image-710993\" align=\"\" size-landscape_thumbnail=\"\" image-handler__image=\"\" image-handler__image--full=\"\" no-wrap=\"\" js-lazyload=\"\" data-src=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/12\/Vittoria-Corsa-ProSpotted02-95871c6.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413"\" width=\""620"\" height=\""413"\" alt=\"""\" title=\"""\"\/><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><div class=\""caption-hold"\"><figcaption class=\""wp-caption-text"\"><span class=\""caption-copy"\"><i class=\""icon-arrow\" icon-camera-circle=\"\"\/> We spotted the Vittoria Corsa Pro tyres on Team Jumbo-Visma\u2019s 2023 bike \u2013 and Liam can\u2019t wait to find out more.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\""im-image-caption"\"> <i>Team Jumbo-Visma<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">I like <a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/tubeless\/"\">tubeless tyres<\/a> because they\u2019re fast.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">I like proper tan walls because they\u2019re pretty.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">I like high TPI cotton tyres because they ride beautifully.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">The problem has always been making those cotton sidewalls able to hold air. That\u2019s why tubeless tyres are mostly of the vulcanised variety.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">That may be changing, though. Challenge has its unfortunately named HTLR line and we\u2019ve just seen the <\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/news\/new-tan-wall-vittoria-corsa-pro-tubeless-tyre-spotted\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">new Vittoria Corsa Pro tyres<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\"> appear on Jumbo-Visma\u2019s 2023 race bikes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">I predict 2023 is the year in which more brands manage to combine the beauty of a real cotton side-wall, with the ride quality of a high TPI casing and the speed benefits of tubeless.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Classified wins at the Tour de France and takes over the world<\/h3>\n<div class=\""image-handler__container\" image-handler__container--aspect=\"\" style=\""padding-bottom:\" calc=\"\"> <picture><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/STOGRX2__Clsfd_Axle_Teaser_D-215da4d.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=298%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/STOGRX2__Clsfd_Axle_Teaser_D-215da4d.jpg?quality=90&resize=298%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/STOGRX2__Clsfd_Axle_Teaser_D-215da4d.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/STOGRX2__Clsfd_Axle_Teaser_D-215da4d.jpg?quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/STOGRX2__Clsfd_Axle_Teaser_D-215da4d.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=403%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/STOGRX2__Clsfd_Axle_Teaser_D-215da4d.jpg?quality=90&resize=403%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/STOGRX2__Clsfd_Axle_Teaser_D-215da4d.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=553%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/STOGRX2__Clsfd_Axle_Teaser_D-215da4d.jpg?quality=90&resize=553%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/STOGRX2__Clsfd_Axle_Teaser_D-215da4d.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=619%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/STOGRX2__Clsfd_Axle_Teaser_D-215da4d.jpg?quality=90&resize=619%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/STOGRX2__Clsfd_Axle_Teaser_D-215da4d.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=406%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/STOGRX2__Clsfd_Axle_Teaser_D-215da4d.jpg?quality=90&resize=406%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/STOGRX2__Clsfd_Axle_Teaser_D-215da4d.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/STOGRX2__Clsfd_Axle_Teaser_D-215da4d.jpg?quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><img class=\""wp-image-657284\" align=\"\" size-landscape_thumbnail=\"\" image-handler__image=\"\" image-handler__image--aspect=\"\" no-wrap=\"\" js-lazyload=\"\" data-src=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/STOGRX2__Clsfd_Axle_Teaser_D-215da4d.jpg?quality=90&resize=619%2C413"\" width=\""620"\" height=\""413"\" alt=\"""\" title=\"""\"\/><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><div class=\""caption-hold"\"><figcaption class=\""wp-caption-text"\"><span class=\""caption-copy"\"><i class=\""icon-arrow\" icon-camera-circle=\"\"\/> Classified\u2019s Powershift gear hub is concealed in the rear wheel. Will it hit the big time in 2023?<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\""im-image-caption"\"> <i>Storck<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Team Uno-X has been granted a wildcard entry for the 2023 Tour de France. We\u2019ve seen its riders using the Classified PowerShift Hub system in smaller races as a test run and I think the team will use it in the biggest race of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">When I was at the Crit\u00e9rium du Dauphin\u00e9 last year, one of the team\u2019s mechanics was a lovely chatty chap, who said the intention was to use the system in bigger races.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">This, unsurprisingly, would be a huge development; firstly, given the dominance of Shimano (plus SRAM and Campagnolo), and secondly because it\u2019d mark a complete rethink of derailleur gears in pro cycling.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">As for the team\u2019s Tour wildcard, boss Jens Haugland went on the Lanterne Rouge podcast recently and said they wouldn\u2019t simply be looking to fill the day\u2019s doomed breakaway.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">With the quality of its riders and that approach to targeted stage hunting, I think Team Uno-X will net a stage win. Classified will be the reason and world domination will surely follow.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Ashley Quinlan | Senior road technical editor<\/h2>\n<h3>Shimano Tiagra becomes the new 105<\/h3>\n<div class=\""image-handler__container\" image-handler__container--full=\"\" style=\""padding-bottom:\" calc=\"\"> <picture><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/01\/Canyon_Endurace_AL_6_Credit_Tino_Pohlmann_5-fdf6fe1.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=300%2C194,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/01\/Canyon_Endurace_AL_6_Credit_Tino_Pohlmann_5-fdf6fe1.jpg?quality=90&resize=300%2C194,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/01\/Canyon_Endurace_AL_6_Credit_Tino_Pohlmann_5-fdf6fe1.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=355%2C229,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/01\/Canyon_Endurace_AL_6_Credit_Tino_Pohlmann_5-fdf6fe1.jpg?quality=90&resize=355%2C229,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/01\/Canyon_Endurace_AL_6_Credit_Tino_Pohlmann_5-fdf6fe1.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=405%2C261,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/01\/Canyon_Endurace_AL_6_Credit_Tino_Pohlmann_5-fdf6fe1.jpg?quality=90&resize=405%2C261,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/01\/Canyon_Endurace_AL_6_Credit_Tino_Pohlmann_5-fdf6fe1.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=554%2C358,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/01\/Canyon_Endurace_AL_6_Credit_Tino_Pohlmann_5-fdf6fe1.jpg?quality=90&resize=554%2C358,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/01\/Canyon_Endurace_AL_6_Credit_Tino_Pohlmann_5-fdf6fe1.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=620%2C400,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/01\/Canyon_Endurace_AL_6_Credit_Tino_Pohlmann_5-fdf6fe1.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C400,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/01\/Canyon_Endurace_AL_6_Credit_Tino_Pohlmann_5-fdf6fe1.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=408%2C263,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/01\/Canyon_Endurace_AL_6_Credit_Tino_Pohlmann_5-fdf6fe1.jpg?quality=90&resize=408%2C263,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/01\/Canyon_Endurace_AL_6_Credit_Tino_Pohlmann_5-fdf6fe1.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=556%2C359,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/01\/Canyon_Endurace_AL_6_Credit_Tino_Pohlmann_5-fdf6fe1.jpg?quality=90&resize=556%2C359,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><img class=\""wp-image-662340\" align=\"\" size-landscape_thumbnail=\"\" image-handler__image=\"\" image-handler__image--full=\"\" no-wrap=\"\" js-lazyload=\"\" data-src=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/01\/Canyon_Endurace_AL_6_Credit_Tino_Pohlmann_5-fdf6fe1.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C400"\" width=\""620"\" height=\""413"\" alt=\"""\" title=\"""\"\/><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><div class=\""caption-hold"\"><figcaption class=\""wp-caption-text"\"><span class=\""caption-copy"\"><i class=\""icon-arrow\" icon-camera-circle=\"\"\/> Can a revamped Shimano Tiagra mechanical groupset fill the void left by mechanical 105?<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\""im-image-caption"\"> <i>Tino Pohlmann<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Time was that you could buy a bike for \u00a31,500 and get yourself a very good, Shimano 105-equipped carbon performance machine.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">With growing economic pressures and continuing supply stresses, I expect to see more enthusiasts \u2018dipping\u2019 to Tiagra in <\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/road-bike-groupsets-everything-you-need-to-know\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">Shimano\u2019s road groupset hierarchy<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\">, especially if (as I hope) it gets updated this year.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">105 Di2 is undoubtedly expensive. Warren has already touched upon its improved value on complete bikes, but I\u2019m testing the groupset now and it\u2019s still a shedload of money to part with (<\/span><span style=\""font-weight:\">\u00a31,730 \/ $1,890 \/ \u20ac1,869 for the groupset).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Plus, at the time of writing (and <\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/news\/shimano-105-12-speed-mechanical\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">despite rumours and leaks<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\">), there\u2019s still no confirmed mechanical 105 12-speed groupset in sight.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">For a long time, 105 has been considered the best bang-for-buck performance road groupset, but Tiagra could well become this with some smart updating.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Unless you count the now-aged \u2013 albeit still very good \u2013 105 R7000 groupset, there\u2019s an 11-speed gap in the latest generation of Shimano road groupsets. Assuming Shimano doesn\u2019t jump Tiagra, which is currently 10-speed, straight to 12-speed, then there\u2019s nothing wrong with an 11-speed groupset anyway.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">There will be those who don\u2019t mind running a good-quality mechanical groupset. I certainly don\u2019t.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">If Liam\u2019s prediction of a 12-speed 105 mechanical groupset comes true (and I agree with it) then that\u2019ll be the flagship mechanical gearset Shimano offers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">11-speed Tiagra suddenly starts to look like the new performance entry point, and an appealing one at that if it can be had for a competitive price.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Hookless wheels are taking over and there\u2019s nothing you can do about it<\/h3>\n<div class=\""image-handler__container\" image-handler__container--full=\"\" style=\""padding-bottom:\" calc=\"\"> <picture><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Zipps-new-404-range-05-018d938-e1646907978915.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=300%2C200,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Zipps-new-404-range-05-018d938-e1646907978915.jpg?quality=90&resize=300%2C200,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Zipps-new-404-range-05-018d938-e1646907978915.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=355%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Zipps-new-404-range-05-018d938-e1646907978915.jpg?quality=90&resize=355%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Zipps-new-404-range-05-018d938-e1646907978915.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=405%2C270,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Zipps-new-404-range-05-018d938-e1646907978915.jpg?quality=90&resize=405%2C270,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Zipps-new-404-range-05-018d938-e1646907978915.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Zipps-new-404-range-05-018d938-e1646907978915.jpg?quality=90&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Zipps-new-404-range-05-018d938-e1646907978915.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Zipps-new-404-range-05-018d938-e1646907978915.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Zipps-new-404-range-05-018d938-e1646907978915.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=408%2C272,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Zipps-new-404-range-05-018d938-e1646907978915.jpg?quality=90&resize=408%2C272,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Zipps-new-404-range-05-018d938-e1646907978915.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=556%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Zipps-new-404-range-05-018d938-e1646907978915.jpg?quality=90&resize=556%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><img class=\""wp-image-634629\" align=\"\" size-landscape_thumbnail=\"\" image-handler__image=\"\" image-handler__image--full=\"\" no-wrap=\"\" js-lazyload=\"\" data-src=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Zipps-new-404-range-05-018d938-e1646907978915.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413"\" width=\""620"\" height=\""413"\" alt=\"""\" title=\"""\"\/><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><div class=\""caption-hold"\"><figcaption class=\""wp-caption-text"\"><span class=\""caption-copy"\"><i class=\""icon-arrow\" icon-camera-circle=\"\"\/> Hookless rims are here to stay.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\""im-image-caption"\"> <i>Warren Rossiter \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">I suspect that by the year\u2019s end we\u2019ll see a greater proportion of <\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/features\/hookless-rims-road-tubeless\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">hookless rims<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\"> in the world.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Although I still like to ride clincher setups where possible, for practical reasons, there\u2019s no doubt that hookless \u2013 and the linked growth of <\/span><span style=\""font-weight:\">tubeless tyres<\/span><span style=\""font-weight:\"> \u2013 is continuing apace.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">The line from wheel brands is that hookless rims are cheaper and take less material to produce, with Zipp a notable example of a brand passing on some of those cost savings to the customer. They are theoretically lighter, too.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">I\u2019m sure there will be claims of performance gains in terms of aerodynamics, too, even if we\u2019re in the territory of hyperbolic fractions of a margin anyway.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Simon von Bromley | Senior technical writer<\/h2>\n<h3>The way we think about aerodynamics in cycling will shift<\/h3>\n<div class=\""image-handler__container\" image-handler__container--aspect=\"\" style=\""padding-bottom:\" calc=\"\"> <picture><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/08\/20210810_AX6300_DSC0026-c4899dd.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=299%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/08\/20210810_AX6300_DSC0026-c4899dd.jpg?quality=90&resize=299%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/08\/20210810_AX6300_DSC0026-c4899dd.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/08\/20210810_AX6300_DSC0026-c4899dd.jpg?quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/08\/20210810_AX6300_DSC0026-c4899dd.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=404%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/08\/20210810_AX6300_DSC0026-c4899dd.jpg?quality=90&resize=404%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/08\/20210810_AX6300_DSC0026-c4899dd.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/08\/20210810_AX6300_DSC0026-c4899dd.jpg?quality=90&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/08\/20210810_AX6300_DSC0026-c4899dd.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/08\/20210810_AX6300_DSC0026-c4899dd.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/08\/20210810_AX6300_DSC0026-c4899dd.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=407%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/08\/20210810_AX6300_DSC0026-c4899dd.jpg?quality=90&resize=407%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/08\/20210810_AX6300_DSC0026-c4899dd.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/08\/20210810_AX6300_DSC0026-c4899dd.jpg?quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><img class=\""wp-image-644797\" align=\"\" size-landscape_thumbnail=\"\" image-handler__image=\"\" image-handler__image--aspect=\"\" no-wrap=\"\" js-lazyload=\"\" data-src=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/08\/20210810_AX6300_DSC0026-c4899dd.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413"\" width=\""620"\" height=\""413"\" alt=\"""\" title=\"""\"\/><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><div class=\""caption-hold"\"><figcaption class=\""wp-caption-text"\"><span class=\""caption-copy"\"><i class=\""icon-arrow\" icon-camera-circle=\"\"\/> The Ribble Ultra SL R, which features a handlebar shaped to smooth airflow, represents a new wave of aero thinking.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\""im-image-caption"\"> <i>Simon Bromley \/ Immediate Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">This year could see a wider move away from simple streamlining to a more holistic approach to aerodynamics, which considers the rider and bike as part of one system.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Until recently, bike and component manufacturers often sought to improve the aerodynamic performance of things in isolation, without much consideration for the knock-on effects on other parts or the rider.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">But the past few years have seen a few innovative brands take radically different approaches without falling foul of any beady-eyed UCI commissaires.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">The <\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/features\/pro-bike\/hope-hb-t\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">Hope\/Lotus HB.T<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\"> has its cavernously wide fork and seatstays, for example, while the <\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/news\/ribble-ultra\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">Ribble Ultra SL R<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\"> has its bulbous Ultra handlebar and aggressively profiled frameset.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Specialized and Kask both had sponsored riders in <\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/features\/pro-bike\/team-ineos-visors\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">unusually large helmets at the 2022 Tour de France<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\">, while the infamous <\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/reviews\/helmets\/road-cycling-helmets\/poc-tempor-aero-helmet-in-brief-review\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">POC Tempor time trial helmet<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\"> also remains steadfastly popular at the pointy end of the sport (a number of riders were sporting unbranded versions at the 2022 UCI Track World Championships).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">All of these are, as far as we can tell, intended to work with the rider to reduce the overall aerodynamic drag by manipulating the airflow over the entire system.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">My aero bet for the year? We\u2019ll see much more of this in 2023.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">It\u2019s often asked whether we\u2019ve reached \u2018<\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/news\/bikeradar-techtalk-podcast-have-we-reached-peak-bike\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">peak bike<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\">\u2019 within the current UCI technical regulations, but I think there\u2019s plenty of room left to play in and I hope some pioneering brands take advantage of it.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Aero sensors still won\u2019t be the new power meters<\/h3>\n<div class=\""image-handler__container\" image-handler__container--full=\"\" style=\""padding-bottom:\" calc=\"\"> <picture><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2019\/03\/dscf5090-1531057885609-1fsnlgiyny6e2-1533206699704-xqzaqhh4n506-0661a91-e1563801432582.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=300%2C200,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2019\/03\/dscf5090-1531057885609-1fsnlgiyny6e2-1533206699704-xqzaqhh4n506-0661a91-e1563801432582.jpg?quality=90&resize=300%2C200,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2019\/03\/dscf5090-1531057885609-1fsnlgiyny6e2-1533206699704-xqzaqhh4n506-0661a91-e1563801432582.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=355%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2019\/03\/dscf5090-1531057885609-1fsnlgiyny6e2-1533206699704-xqzaqhh4n506-0661a91-e1563801432582.jpg?quality=90&resize=355%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2019\/03\/dscf5090-1531057885609-1fsnlgiyny6e2-1533206699704-xqzaqhh4n506-0661a91-e1563801432582.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=405%2C270,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2019\/03\/dscf5090-1531057885609-1fsnlgiyny6e2-1533206699704-xqzaqhh4n506-0661a91-e1563801432582.jpg?quality=90&resize=405%2C270,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2019\/03\/dscf5090-1531057885609-1fsnlgiyny6e2-1533206699704-xqzaqhh4n506-0661a91-e1563801432582.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2019\/03\/dscf5090-1531057885609-1fsnlgiyny6e2-1533206699704-xqzaqhh4n506-0661a91-e1563801432582.jpg?quality=90&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2019\/03\/dscf5090-1531057885609-1fsnlgiyny6e2-1533206699704-xqzaqhh4n506-0661a91-e1563801432582.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2019\/03\/dscf5090-1531057885609-1fsnlgiyny6e2-1533206699704-xqzaqhh4n506-0661a91-e1563801432582.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2019\/03\/dscf5090-1531057885609-1fsnlgiyny6e2-1533206699704-xqzaqhh4n506-0661a91-e1563801432582.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=408%2C272,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2019\/03\/dscf5090-1531057885609-1fsnlgiyny6e2-1533206699704-xqzaqhh4n506-0661a91-e1563801432582.jpg?quality=90&resize=408%2C272,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2019\/03\/dscf5090-1531057885609-1fsnlgiyny6e2-1533206699704-xqzaqhh4n506-0661a91-e1563801432582.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=556%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2019\/03\/dscf5090-1531057885609-1fsnlgiyny6e2-1533206699704-xqzaqhh4n506-0661a91-e1563801432582.jpg?quality=90&resize=556%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><img class=\""wp-image-313170\" align=\"\" size-landscape_thumbnail=\"\" image-handler__image=\"\" image-handler__image--full=\"\" no-wrap=\"\" js-lazyload=\"\" data-src=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2019\/03\/dscf5090-1531057885609-1fsnlgiyny6e2-1533206699704-xqzaqhh4n506-0661a91-e1563801432582.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413"\" width=\""620"\" height=\""413"\" alt=\"""\" title=\"""\"\/><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><div class=\""caption-hold"\"><figcaption class=\""wp-caption-text"\"><span class=\""caption-copy"\"><i class=\""icon-arrow\" icon-camera-circle=\"\"\/> Aero sensors are likely to remain on the sidelines in 2023, according to Simon.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\""im-image-caption"\"> <i>Oli Woodman \/ Immediate Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">On-bike aerodynamic sensors, which promise a live display of your CdA (Coefficient of Aerodynamic drag), have promised to be <\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/features\/a-wind-tunnel-on-your-handlebars-how-real-time-aero-measurement-could-be-the-next-big-thing\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">\u201cthe next big thing\u201d<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\"> for around five years now.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">With a growing number of brands either having devices already available on the market (such as the <\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/news\/notio-konect-provides-all-your-aero-data-without-a-wind-tunnel\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">Notio Konect <\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\">and Velocomp AeroPod), or in the process of developing a product (BodyRocket and AeroSensor), it\u2019s tempting to wonder whether 2023 could be the year things come good and the power to reduce drag is finally democratised.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Much to my dismay, however, I don\u2019t think it will be.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Aerodynamics is complicated and measuring a rider\u2019s real-time drag isn\u2019t a simple matter because there are so many variables at play (the rider, the weather, traffic, <\/span><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/news\/friction-facts-measuring-drivetrain-efficiency\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">drivetrain friction<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\">, rolling resistance, etc.).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">It\u2019s not that these devices don\u2019t work as advertised, it\u2019s that using them is complicated and time-consuming.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">They typically require calibration rides, a wind- and traffic-free environment to test in, and a rigorous test protocol (and positions or kit that you want to test). You also need an understanding of how to interpret the results and what to do with that information.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/best-power-meters\/"\"><span style=\""font-weight:\">Power meters<\/span><\/a><span style=\""font-weight:\">, in contrast, are relatively simple to use. How hard are you pushing the pedals? Here\u2019s the answer (+\/- 1 per cent). Sure, there\u2019s more to it once you get underneath the surface, but the tech in itself is pretty straightforward.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">Watts are also a currency many cyclists are familiar with \u2013 if the number is bigger, that\u2019s usually good, and vice versa.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\""font-weight:\">I would, of course, love to be wrong. Sadly, though, this measurement revolution still feels some way off.<\/span><\/p> <\/body><\/html>\n<hr class=\"no-tts wp-block-separator\"\/>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>By George Scott Published: Wednesday, 11 January 2023 at 12:00 am Mechanical vs electronic groupsets, the growing ubiquity of integrated cockpits, tubeless tyres and the validity (or not) of hookless rims \u2013 we may be into a new year, but some of the most controversial topics in road tech are still set to dominate headlines […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":24,"featured_media":45507,"template":"","categories":[1,36],"acf":{"readingTimeMinutes":"12"},"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2023\/01\/the-groupset-battle-wages-on-and-a-tan-wall-takeover-10-road-tech-trends-and-predictions-for-2023.jpg",1800,1200,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2023\/01\/the-groupset-battle-wages-on-and-a-tan-wall-takeover-10-road-tech-trends-and-predictions-for-2023-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2023\/01\/the-groupset-battle-wages-on-and-a-tan-wall-takeover-10-road-tech-trends-and-predictions-for-2023-300x200.jpg",300,200,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2023\/01\/the-groupset-battle-wages-on-and-a-tan-wall-takeover-10-road-tech-trends-and-predictions-for-2023-768x512.jpg",768,512,true],"large":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2023\/01\/the-groupset-battle-wages-on-and-a-tan-wall-takeover-10-road-tech-trends-and-predictions-for-2023-1024x683.jpg",800,534,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2023\/01\/the-groupset-battle-wages-on-and-a-tan-wall-takeover-10-road-tech-trends-and-predictions-for-2023-1536x1024.jpg",1536,1024,true],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2023\/01\/the-groupset-battle-wages-on-and-a-tan-wall-takeover-10-road-tech-trends-and-predictions-for-2023.jpg",1800,1200,false]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"importmanagerhub@sprylab.com","author_link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/author\/importmanagerhubsprylab-com\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"By George Scott Published: Wednesday, 11 January 2023 at 12:00 am Mechanical vs electronic groupsets, the growing ubiquity of integrated cockpits, tubeless tyres and the validity (or not) of hookless rims \u2013 we may be into a new year, but some of the most controversial topics in road tech are still set to dominate headlines…","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/rss_feed\/45506"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/rss_feed"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/rss_feed"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/24"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/45507"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=45506"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=45506"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}