Wilier introduces the Rapida, a new all-road offering for the premium Italian bike manufacturer. With the Rapida, Wilier hoped to accomplish a couple of things. They wanted to design a bike with the performance expected from the brand, but with an “everyday riding” ethos.
According to Wilier, “speed is, first and foremost, whatever feels right for you.” They designed the Rapida to be the bike that can go fast, but doesn’t need to. This opens the door to a wider audience, one seeking the head-turning appeal of a designer bike without the steep price tag.
That is the other thing Wilier did: keep the price relatively low.
The Wilier Rapida
Wilier designed the geometry of the Rapida around the “exact point where speed and distance coexist.” Now, quantifying that point sounds a bit difficult, but they feel like they’ve got it.
The Rapida’s riding position holds to Wilier’s racing characteristics without neglecting comfort. The bike is equally as comfortable between the tape or pushing heavy distances on long days out. Wilier placed the stack height and other geo specs between their pointed race bikes and the endurance range, attempting to strike a balance between the two.
Like other race-focused Wilier bikes, the Rapida features a monocoque carbon cockpit. The design features total cable integration, providing clean lines and a modern, aggressive look.
The cockpit isn’t the only thing contributing to an overall aggressive feel and look. Wilier incorporated NACA airfoils into the frame, fork, and carbon seatpost, improving aerodynamic efficiency.
Wilier also designed the Rapida with a UDH back end and compatibility for 1x or 2x drivetrains. They also bumped up tire clearance to 36mm, adding some stability and comfort to the bike, whether you’re on pavement or gravel.
They offer the frame in four colorways: Dusk Grey, Midday Orange, Lastlight Black, and Weekend White. Wilier offers a fairly extensive size range of six frame sizes, XS-XXL.
After choosing a color, you’ll need to choose a build, of which there are two. Wilier has a slightly more expensive option with a Shimano 105 Di2 2×12 groupset and Miche Asfalto 45 carbon wheels. This Rapida build retails for €3,999 (~$4,691.43).
A less expensive Rapida build is also available. Featuring a Shimano 105 (mechanical) 2×12 groupset and Miche Reflex DX wheels, this build is priced at €2,899 (~$3,400.96).
