Wilier

Cento10PRO Road Frameset

Lauded as the heir to its Cento10Air predecessor's throne, the Cento10PRO Road Frameset from Wilier remains steadfast in its laser focus on aerodynamics and is an evolution of that previous bike rather than a radical redesign. Compared to the Cento10Air, the Cento10PRO claims six percent improved torsional stiffness. That may not sound like much, however, the 10Air was already quite a snappy frameset and any additional gains on out of the saddle sprints and double-digit gradient punches are welcome by us.

The Cento10PRO benefits from Wilier's expertise in the wind tunnel. Its tube shapes break from the trends of yesteryear and its narrow, long tubing and instead present wider leading faces with NACA-inspired tapering that varies across the frame to balance weight and aerodynamics while remaining quite compliant on less than idyllic tarmac. The Cento10PRO continues with the Air's increased frontal area at the headtube, with a wider fork that comes with claims of reducing turbulence around the wheels for smoother airflow.

Many that are familiar with the brand might recall Wilier's fondness for integrated seatmasts on past models. However, as of late, all Wilier frames have moved back to a more traditional style post to help improve the ride, ease setup, and make it easier to travel with. Naturally, the teardrop shape is proprietary, and was developed to reduce turbulence as air slips around it. It's held in place by a seatpost clamp developed in conjunction with Ritchey that sits stealthily in the seat tube and hides from the wind.

To ensure rigidity and confident handling, the Cento10PRO is constructed from a 60t Mitsubishi high-modulus carbon fiber. The 'T' in 60t refers to ton, as in it can withstand 60 tons of pressure per square millimeter. Wilier sought out this carbon fiber, as its superior strength means that less is needed. Thus, Wilier was able to strike the perfect balance between strength, stiffness, and weight.

Another welcome return is the internal cable routing, which is compatible with both electronic and mechanical drivetrains. Almost more importantly, however, is the PRO's integrated cockpit. Dubbed Alabarda, this integrated bar and stem is made from lightweight carbon fiber with a flattened, aerodynamic top bar profile. Furthering the wind-slicing advantage is integrated shift cable routing that keeps them contained within the frame for clean lines and leaving only the brake cable out in the wind.

The Cento10PRO is also built up in the bottom bracket area in order to increase power transfer and accommodate a PressFit BB86 bottom bracket. While it's true that we don't hide our allegiance to the good old fashioned threaded shell, this design proves that there's still significant room for advancement in the right circumstances. The BB86 is a kingly 86.5 millimeters wide, increasing stiffness over the usual 68 millimeter bottom brackets and lowering the power lost from flexing to almost zero. With adapters, the BB86 accommodates cranksets from Shimano, SRAM, Campagnolo, and many more.