Superior XR 9.8 GF (Gloss Carbon/Grey)

The XR 9.8 GF is a gran fondo bike that combines performance, speed and comfort for long road routes, but thanks to its geometry and clearance for tyres up to 45 mm wide (using a 40 mm front derailleur) it also offers a great option for adaptation to gravel trips. This versatile frame lets you easily turn the bike from a road bike into a fast gravel bike, so you can enjoy both disciplines on one platform. The bike is equipped with Shimano Ultegra Di2 2x12 electronic drive for precise shifting and DT Swiss ERC 1400 DICUT® 45 mm carbon wheels, which provide maximum stiffness and comfort. The carbon handlebar and stem combo gives perfect ergonomics and a clean look without visible cables.

The new Superior XR – a new gravel, a new level

Two levels of carbon

The new XR model is built on redesigned high-end and mid-range carbon frames (so-called High-Modulus and Mid-Modulus). For the higher models we use High-Modulus carbon, which offers high strength and the lowest possible weight. The frame itself weighs 827g, the fork weighs 396g and the seatpost 190g. The total weight of the frameset including the seatpost is 1 413g. High-Modulus carbon framesets start with the XR 9.7 models and go up to the 9.9 level. Mid-Modulus carbon is used for the 9.6 models and lower.

The Mid-Modulus frame weighs 1072 g, the fork 411 g and the seatpost 236 g. The total weight of the frameset is 1 719g. Compared with the original platform, which was available only in Mid-Modulus, we achieved a weight reduction even with the new Mid-Modulus frame thanks to improved lamination based on 3D software calculations.

Unique design

The new XR frame mirrors the key elements of the brand, which are “speed – lightness – clean design”. Our designers have incorporated these aspects into the final frame design even more. The frame also takes new trends into account: wider tyre clearance, protective elements, a UDH rear dropout and more.

The design is so-called clean, function-oriented, yet it still offers an interesting design execution: a hidden front axle or an integrated seatpost clamp. Long lines on the top and down tube with zero curves support the clean and understated look of the whole bike.

Stiffness

The new frame is stiffer compared with the previous X-Road generation. Stiffness in the Mid-Modulus models is increased thanks to improved lamination layout and optimised tube shaping. This increases the overall stiffness of the construction without compromising weight. In High-Modulus frames, stiffness is increased mainly through the use of high-quality carbon material.

Aerodynamics

We focused on integrating aerodynamic elements into the new frame, and we managed to perfectly combine the needs of off-road riding with aerodynamic standards. The most important aerodynamic “gains” come from redesigning not only the front part but also the rear sections of the frame. The new design minimises flow separation and air resistance, thereby optimising performance at higher speeds.

Smarter and more practical

We increased tyre clearance up to 45 mm wide. At the same time we made sure the new frame matches current trends: a UDH dropout and the so-called combo handlebar with stem. We supplemented the frame with a new cable routing system. Everything then gives a cleaner and more modern impression. There are also several smart features, including integrated lighting on the seatpost and mudguard mounts.

Tested in Germany

The new frames underwent rigorous testing in the German EFBe laboratory, which is known for its high quality standards. The test confirms that the new XR is and will be durable even in extreme conditions.

Geometry: XR 9.8 GF

Additional information