Storck

Aernario Disc Brake Road Bike Frameset - 2017

When it was introduced, the Storck Aernario represented a significant leap forward for the German masterminds — namely an aero road bike that was comfortable and rode brilliantly. Not content to rest on its laurels, Storck has introduced the Aernario Disc, and in so doing, raised the bar for endurance road bikes. It benefits from the same aerodynamic efficiency and balanced handling, and adds disc brakes to the equation. But far from being a stopgap measure, this new frame was designed from the ground up to provide even greater advantages to the discerning rider.

If you're familiar with aero-frames, you’re most likely aware of the drawbacks that normally plague the category — namely questionable aesthetics and a harsh ride. However, Markus Storck refused to accept the status quo, and he created what Storck calls "sectional aerodynamic shaping." Think of it as an aerodynamic profile on the horizontal plane. By this, we mean that the Aernario's teardrop profile takes shape horizontally rather than vertically. In other words, if you were to take a cross-section, its aero-shape would become strikingly evident. However, the aerodynamic advantage is hidden by a characteristically beautiful silhouette.

As with its rim brake-equipped cousin, the Aernario disc was constructed from Storck's own CFR/UD carbon fiber. Compared to a woven carbon fabric, unidirectional carbon is oriented as it sounds, with one direction, or on one axis. Unidirectional fibers tend to better stiffen frames, while also improving the characteristic of vibration dampening. And through a refined layup, this is achieved at a much lower overall weight. It's worth noting that the Aernario is, in fact, molded in a monocoque. In other words, it features a one-piece molded construction. This eliminates excess weight by requiring less carbon and resin application at the tube junctures of the frame.

In designing the disc version, Storck was far from content to simply add disc mounts and call it a day. Perhaps the most noticeable design feature is the rear thru axle, which we’d like to see become standard on disc road frames. In addition to providing added wheel retention, it makes for a much stiffer dropout configuration. And that additional stiffness, combined with the fact that braking forces are no longer transmitted through the seatstays, allowed Storck to use an even thinner, more compliant seatstay than the already smooth riding Aernario. It’s a perfect match, as disc brakes lend themselves to the growing “endurance road” category, and the disc version’s redesigned seatstay only enhances the all-day comfort.

Moving into frame specifics, you'll find a massive, oversized PressFit BB86 bottom bracket juncture that efficiently transfers power to the rear triangle. But that stiffness doesn’t sacrifice rider comfort, due to Storck's proportional tubing concept. It’s a way of saying that every frame size uses adapted dimensions, wall thickness, tube diameter, and tapering to ensure the exactly intended ride quality regardless of size. Rounding out the construction is electronic-drivetrain-compatible internal cable routing, although it’s compatible with mechanical drivetrains if you prefer.

For the fork, Storck’s award-winning Stiletto has been further improved in the form of the Stiletto Disc. At 400g, it’s as light as many lightweight aftermarket forks and astonishingly stiff, especially under braking. The 340 features a tapered design that's been mated to a 1-1/8 - 1-1/4in integrated headset.

The Storck Aernario Disc Road Bike Frameset is available in six sizes, from 47cm to 63cm, and in the color White/black.