Bianchi just updated the Specialissima. It’s more of an all-around climber than ever, but don’t let the “all-around” fool you. The new Specialissima now comes in three different frameset options, with the top Reparto Corse (RC) weighing in at a super light 14.5lbs (6.6kg) in a 55cm frame.
What is it? Bianchi Specialissima
The Bianchi Specialissima RC and the Bianchi Oltre RC sit at the top of the iconic Italian brand’s road race range. Both bikes are moving into more versatile territory but still retain specificity. The Oltre frameset is the go-to for most when the road is flat, and the terrain is rolling. The frame is more of an aerodynamic and robust design that can do some climbing. The Specialissima, on the other hand, is the climber’s bike but now boasts aero gains.
How light are we talking? Bianchi claims a total weight of 14.5 lbs/6.6 kg for a size 55cm Bianchi Specialissima RC complete bike — Pretty darn light.
How did Bianchi achieve this? Besides a smattering of high-end components, wheels, and a super lightweight saddle. They looked at functionality and where the bike would respond most to the rider.
Bianchi explains, “While the previous Specialissima needed an 8.8 percent slope to offer pro athletes an advantage, Reparto Corse lowered this threshold to 6 percent.” This lowered threshold makes the bike’s performance accessible at an amateur level, not just the World Tour.
If you consider it in watts, the new Specialissima provides an 8.7-second advantage to an athlete producing 200 watts on a 6 percent climb. On flat terrain, the advantage for a 200-watt output increases to 31.19 seconds.
Familiar Shapes from the Oltre RC
The new Bianchi Specialissima takes some (lots) of inspiration from the Oltre RC. The fork integrates the same as the Oltre RC and the D-shaped seatpost is another. Both offer aerodynamic gains without adding weight or sacrificing efficiency.
The rear of the Bianchi Specialissima looks very different from the Oltre RC. The design team took to crafting ultra-fine vertical stays and slimmer horizontal stays. The headtube, however, gained some material for improved aerodynamics. The unique finish on the Specialissima RC model shaves off an additional 40 grams compared to other finishes.
Geometry and Sizing
The Bianchi Specialissima frame is available in sizes 47, 50, 53, 55, 57, and 59 for all three versions, with a specific aero seat post in three different lengths based on the frame size.
Component Intigration
To make the Bianchi Specialissima look as seamless as possible, the design team added some unique integrated components that also give aerodynamic gains.
The RC integrated handlebar is full carbon and is available in five lengths. Bianchi claims the handlebar weighs just 330 grams for the 110×380 mm version.
The RC handlebar features a reach of 73 mm, a drop of 125 mm, and a two-degree flare. The cockpit is compatible with the Acros internal cable routing system. The Specialissima RC handlebar is also compatible with the other Specialissima versions: Pro and Comp.
Three Specialissima Build options
Bianchi Specialissima RC
This model is the top Specialissima offering designed for World Tour professionals and riders seeking similar performance. It features high-performance Bianchi components, including the Specialissima RC handlebar, Reparto Corse 33R wheels, and RC139 saddle. Groupset is either Shimano Dura-Ace 12-speed, or SRAM RED. The Specialissima RC is available in only one colorway with minimal paint application to save an additional 40 grams of weight.
Specialissima Pro
What most would call the practical top-of-the-line features the same aerodynamic cockpit as the Specialissima RC and is equipped with Bianchi’s CV technology that eliminates vibrations. The Specialissima Pro has Velomann Palladium wheels and a Velomann Mitora Hyper 139 mm saddle. Groupset is either Shimano Ultegra 12 speed or SRAM Force It is available in two matt colorways: Metallic Celeste with carbon black accents and Mystic Grey with carbon black accents.
Specialissima Comp
All of the top-of-the-line tech, but with various component swaps to make it more accessible to the rider. The Comp features Velomann Palladium wheels and a Mitora H1 139 mm saddle. The groupset is either Shimano Ultegra/105 12-speed or SRAM Rival. It’s available in two glossy colorways: Bianchi Celeste and Graphite.
Bianchi Specialissima Pricing and Availability
The new Specialissima will be available starting late September 2023, and for pricing, we’ll update as soon it’s provided.
For more information, check out: Bianchi.com
