Wilier

Zero SLR Road Frameset

Only a handful of frames tug at our heartstrings quite like the ones that roll out of the Wilier Triestina factory. It's a brand rich in history continues to influence the shape of modern bikes we currently see in the peloton. By continually evolving their bikes using the latest materials and frame design, Wilier is able to reduce wattage expenditure through increased aerodynamics and lighter weight, ultimately resulting in more responsive and efficient framesets. This is alive and well on this Zero SLR. It's Wilier's answer to the new crop of cutting-edge race bikes. Lightweight like a climber's dream, plenty stiff for the strong sprinters among us, and somehow comfortable enough to pedal across chip-seal, pothole-laden roads. A fully integrated cockpit, disc brakes, electronic drivetrain only, and a subtle nod to aerodynamics means this stunning Italian rocketship is very much a modern steed.

Wilier understands that high stiffness to weight values are important for modern race bikes—especially climbing-oriented all-rounders like the SLR. There's a balance to be achieved that few brands have truly mastered. On the Zero SLR frame, Wilier piggybacks on their years of carbon expertise to put the right blend of carbon in just the right places to achieve the perfect ratio of stiffness and lightness. Compared to the previous Zero.7 and Zero.6 models, riders will enjoy a 24% increase in stiffness-to-weight ratio. At the same time, Wilier incorporates a special liquid-crystal polymer between the carbon layers that increases impact resistance and reduces road vibration, ensuring the ride quality surpasses that of the aforementioned models, too.

Clean lines are a must on a bike of this caliber, so this frame is intended to be paired with the Wilier Zero Carbon Handlebar. With this integrated bar/stem combo the cables remain totally hidden for a very tidy look that has the added benefit of reducing aerodynamic drag. Integrated cockpits like this can sometimes be a hassle when it comes to maintenance and fit adjustments, but because the Zero SLR is made specifically for electronic drivetrains you only worry about brake hoses, and Wilier's innovative easy-fit spacers let you adjust the handlebar height without having to remove said hoses—a fault we've found with numerous competitor's bikes.