Boardman Bikes

Elite CXR 9.8 - 2015

Chris Boardman, star British cyclist and multi-time world champion and record holder, believes that the cyclocross bike is the most versatile bike out there. From racing, to touring, to commuting, Boardman's CX frames are designed with all the necessary details to make each discipline a delight. In fact, Boardman believes in the 'cross bike so much that they have developed and engineered three separate frames for every level of rider. The CXR 9.8 is its new flagship, top-of-the-line model. And although 'cross is one of the few discipline that Boardman did not race, you can be assured that the frame received the same attention to detail as his time trial bikes. 

The CXR was developed using the SLR frame as its inspiration. Every tube was meticulously examined and tested to be the most efficient and lightweight as possible. Using the latest Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Boardman was able to test many different combinations of fiber types, fiber directions, resins, and tube shapes to ultimately come up with the CXR frame design. With the main load path in any bicycle running from the head tube, down the down tube, and then through the bottom bracket and drive-side chainstay, Boardman zeroed in on these critical areas to add material where it's needed and remove it where it's not.

The oversized nature of the down tube keeps the steering sharp, with the oversized bottom bracket handling pedaling forces. The material selected for the CXR's frame is an ultralight, high modulus unidirectional carbon fiber, constructed with a full monocoque design. Similarly, the fork was built out of the same predictable, race-tested, and ultralight carbon fiber. The SLR's mold incorporates a one-piece PF30 bottom bracket and oversized asymmetric chainstays, which assist in both power transfer to the drivetrain as well as increased braking capabilities. The seat stays were given a wishbone profile which assists in a smooth ride. Along these lines, the full carbon fork was built with a 1-1/2 to 1-1/8in tapered steerer for increased stiffness and steering precision.

The SLR's fork was designed to be exceptionally stable, comfortable, and to efficiently handle variable wind conditions. Boardman factored in that both the proximity and spinning of the wheel also affect the fork's ability to reduce wind-resistance, which is why its blades were computer modeled to manage that challenging local flow condition. Because of this, Boardman flattened the insides of the blades and curved the outside surfaces for an enhanced airflow interaction between the fork and wheel. The frame was built with full internal, Di2-compatible cable routing, furthering airflow enhancement and a clean overall appearance.

Additionally you will notice a few details that place the CXR frame at the head of its category. First, it has been designed to be compatible with disc brakes. They are now UCI-legal to race and they are the best option for commuting on slippery roads or muddy trails. Second, all of the Boardman 'cross frames feature both mudguard and rear rack mounts. You can race on the weekends and ride it to work the next morning. Again, versatility is the hallmark of the Boardman CXR 9.8 frame. In fact, if you change out the tires, the CXR 9.8 is as comfortable in a road race as it is on a trail.

The Boardman Bikes CXR 9.8 Frame only is available in sizes X-Small to X-Large and in the color Matte carbon/yellow.