Wilier

Zero.9 Road Bike Frameset - 2014

We were a little surprised when Wilier announced that the Zero.9 Road Bike Frame shared common ground with both the Cento1 SR and the Zero.7. After all, these frames are two very different race machines. However, this isn't to say that we were disappointed in the slightest -- have you seen the new Cento1 SR? Wilier's design philosophy for the Zero.9 was simple -- take the most balanced frame in the world, and then balance it for the truly discerning cyclist. As a result, the Zero.9 combines both futuristic and classical design elements, while still retaining Wilier's signature, built-for-speed ride quality. So, if you're looking for that special mix of classical Italian and new wave carbon fiber, the Zero.9 is it. Plain and simple.

The Zero.9's geometry mirrors the Zero.7 precisely from tube lengths to tube angles. Where the two differ is in the actual shape of the carbon tubing. The Zero.9 takes on a more classical approach to its aesthetic, while the Zero.7 sheds aesthetics for stage-winning speed and aerodynamics. However, on focus of their shared geometry, the Zero.9 features the same tight wheel base geometry as the Zero.7. As a counterpoint to this aggressiveness, Wilier coupled the design with a tapered head tube that's a touch taller than the Cento1 SR. The head tube's height stabilizes the handling of excited frame geometry. In other words, the Zero.9 is comfortable over the long haul, but unlike a Gran Fondo design, it's more than willing to drop the hammer on cue. The frame balance is further accentuated by the unmistakable, asymmetrical chain and seatstays design. These two sections of the frame are molded from one continuous piece of carbon fiber that flows seamlessly into the top tube. This design, along with the oversized brake mount juncture, creates a rigid rear triangle that delivers direct power transfer with minimal energy dispersion.

So, you've seen where the design features of the Zero.7 overlap with the Zero.9, but what about the Cento1 SR? Well, both frames make use of the same ultra-rigid, 60t Mitsubishi high-modulus carbon fiber layup. The 'T' in 60t refers to ton, as in it can withstand 60 tons of pressure per square millimeter. Wilier used strong carbon fiber, because the stronger the carbon, the less needed. Thus, Wilier was able to strike the perfect balance between strength and weight. Also, the similarities don't simply stop at materials. The Zero.9, like the Zero.7 and Cento1 SR, incorporates the new BB386EVO bottom bracket system. Don't get aggravated at the thought of another 'new' bottom bracket design -- the proprietary design is compatible with all leading cranksets. Developed in cooperation with FSA, the BB386EVO is a competitor-dwarfing 86.5mm wide and has a diameter of 46mm. Wilier estimates that the new bottom bracket increases rigidity by 30%, and reduces power dispersion to almost zero.

Now, where the Zero.9 differs from both of its brethren is in its use of external cable routing to the front and rear derailleurs. Simply put, this external routing is just easier to maintain. This feature makes the Zero.9 more serviceable to the everyday rider that wrenches on their own bike. However, this isn't to say that the Zero.9 is a cookie-cutter, everyday frame. In fact, the combination of shared design principles places the Zero.9 around 50 grams lighter than the Cento1 SR, and around a slim, 200 grams above the Zero.7.

The Wilier Zero.9 Road Bike Frame is available in the color Red and in six sizes from X-Small to XX-Large.