Colnago, probably one of the most craved bicycles in the world, has been racing for a while. For more than 50 years, the Italian bike brand has been manufacturing lots of high-performing, race-winning frames.
What was started out as a simple factory in Cambiago, Italy, is currently internationally recognized as the state-of-the-art race-pure bicycle.
In fact, lots of bicycle critics argue that Colnago’s bike frames tend to be more on the conventional side of the range. Even though this may be true to some degree, it is still worth mentioning that Colnago was one of the earliest bike brands to research and apply carbon fiber into manufacturing their bike frames.
To this day, Colnago continues to produce some of the strongest carbon fiber and steel road bicycles across the globe. In addition, the brand provides the cycling market with an exceptional variety of colors for their bike frames, along with the option to get custom colors from the company.
Key Takeways
- Colnago is an Italian bike brand that’s been around since 1964, founded by the legendary Ernesto Colnago.
- They make both mountain and road bikes, but their road bikes are particularly popular and well-regarded.
- Colnago bikes are known for their great handling, high-quality materials, and unique frame designs that make them stand out from the crowd.
- The Colnago C68 Dura-Ace 12v is a super cool road bike with a unique geometry that makes it a joy to ride.
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Overview Of Colnago Bike Company
History Of Colnago Bike Company
In 1952, Ernesto Colnago quitted his job at the Gloria bicycle factory in which he was working while he was 20 years old. He decided to do that because he wanted to set up his own company in Cambiago, a small town in Northeastern Milan.
Ernesto Colnago established his company’s facility over 250 square feet and was greatly indebted to his family for cutting down their mulberry tree to provide wood for his factory.
Shortly after, Colnago was manufacturing wheels for several of the best riders of those days, including the legendary Fausto Coppi and Giorgio Albani.
However, in early 1955, chronic knee pain was exposing a danger to end Fiorenzo Magni’s career as a rider. It was at this point that Ernesto Colnago tried to convince his brilliant countryman to allow him to modify his bicycle a little bit. And Colnago was the only person who noticed an uneven drive train and thought that it might be the root cause of the issue.
After Colnago fixed the bicycle, Magni’s knee pain disappeared, and Colnago’s financial worries also went away. After that, Colnago was formally employed as the official mechanic of the Giro team that year. Also, in that year, Magni continued to win his third Giro prize, which further strengthened Colnago’s standing in the group.
In fact, Colnago also had a great time of glory, mostly featuring the racer Eddy Merckx. During his years cycling with the Molteni team, Eddy Merckx won every key title for the brand, with the Molteni team riding Colnago bicycles in the early 1970s.
Some of Eddy’s greatest achievements are the spring Classics and Giro. In his most famous partnership with the bike brand, the “Cannibal” also broke the world record in 1971 with a custom bicycle that Colnago built utilizing a titanium stem, alloys, and drilled chainrings. These were so advanced and complicated than they were fabricated in the United States since the required technology was unobtainable in Europe.
So, you might know that Colnago has been a master in invention since its founding. As a mechanic, Ernesto Colnago designed and manufactured bike frames on his own for Giro cyclists who found it uncomfortable to ride the previous designs.
Since then, Colnago has constantly manufactured some of the most cutting-edge and admired bicycles, including Mexico, with its bent Columbus tube and the diverse personifications of the master, with its special straight fork and star-shaped tube, which helped to minimize cyclists fatigue.
If you are a fan of Italian bike manufacturers, you may want to check out Tommaso bikes. Learn more about Tommaso bikes brand and its collection of high-performing road bikes designed for both beginners and pros. The brand has been praised for its comfortable geometry and versatile features at affordable prices.
Where Are Colnago Bikes Made?
Starting at the end of 2005, Colnago had 2 different sources of their bike production. Accordingly, all of the Colnago high-end bikes are manufactured in Italy as they have always been since 1954. At the same time, the brand’s mid-range models are designed in Italy but fabricated in Taiwan.
The Technologies Of Colnago Bikes
As you might or might not know, the technology in Colnago is really a beautiful story. A red thread ties a journey of 60 years of non-stop efforts, constant search and development for innovation, and attention to detail. Technological perfection is incorporated in Colnago bikes for a splendid tradition, rich in success and respected partnerships.
It has always been in the brand’s DNA, and Colnago is proud of it. However, the constant developments presented in each of Colnago’s new frames are more than just visuals. And below are some of those improvements in technology.
Perfect Lug: 0.15 Mm
Tolerances between lugs and tubes need to be a maximum of 0.15 mm, allowing for an excellent bonding, capable of resisting the flexural-torsional bending stress without any risk of split.
1.200 Kg Of Traction
These tubes are typically sticking to the lugs with a two-part aerospace imitative adhesive, Beijing able to exceed 1 ton and 200 kg traction.
An Aerospace Test
In fact, Colnago was able to develop unique “fatigue” and “crash” computerized crash test machines, thanks to the 3-year field study conducted with the Aerospace Department of the Milan Polytechnic. That machine allowed the brand to do resistant tests, exceptionally strict and trustworthy.
In fact, with a bike integrated with 40 sensors employed at major points, a professional rider has ridden around 3,500km on any type of terrain, including paving, asphalt, cobblestones, and dirt, while facing all kinds of stress.
World’s Safest Frames
It is undeniable to claim that Colnago frames are the most secure all over the world. This is because the company has carried out inner parameters that will surpass at least 5 times the limits set by the Uni-ISO Global Standards on Resistance.
Beyond All Limits
One of the most well-known models made in Italy of Colnago is the C64. Its frame passed the “punishment” impact test perfectly. Accordingly, it can resist a weight of 24.5 kg when dropped from a height of over 1 meter without any failure.
Even though the C64 frame has passed this awful test excellently, the most crucial thing is that even if the computer spots any small failure, safety is still guaranteed, and the frame breaks absolutely will never happen, thanks to the incredibly solid structure of Colnago’s carbon.
Performance Of Colnago Made In Italy Bikes
The first experience you will feel when riding a Colnago bike, typically the C64 is stiffer and more lightweight. This is because of the decreased thickness, the unique internal rib, and the one-way fiber.
While still keeping the same general geometry as the C60 model, the C64’s headtube is equipped with new, innovative technology. This improvement allows the brand to diminish the overall thickness and reduce the overall weight. In addition, the shape was modified to enhance side rigidity. As was the whole frame, the headtube was altered from an external 3k carbon finish into a more lightweight UD finish.
The downtube features fewer twists while providing more reactivity. At the same time, you will feel the increased torsional stiffness, thanks to the lessened width and stellar section.
What’s more, the seat tube offers exceptional lightness and stiffness without any compromise. In particular, the single-piece monocoque makes the frame more rigid while not adding weight.
When it comes to the bottom bracket, you will see that it is currently more complicated than ever before. This is because it is built around the brand’s effectively proven ThreadFit 82.5, which is essentially a PressFit with a detachable base sleeve. The cable guide, which was particularly a bolted plastic component, is currently molded into the lug. As a result, it not only saves the overall weight but also provides the largest radius possible for exceptional shifting performance.
In addition, you can use any 28mm tires with lots of room to spare because the frame features a clearance of 345mm radius and 36.5 mm diameter. Since the brakes are not really a great feature here, the disc brake version will provide a little bit more space.
So, in general, safety and comfort are the two most prominent feelings when you ride any Colnago bicycle.
Colnago Bike Categories
As you might know, Colnago produces both mountain and road bikes, which are relatively fashionable and comfortable to ride all day. What the brand is better known for, however, is long-distance road machines. These models have been used by a lot of victorious cyclists who have won different races across the globe.
What’s more, Colnago is currently continuing to dominate different championships, Grand Tour, and Classics.
Below is the list of existing bike ranges that Colnago has to offer:
- Made in Italy Bikes
- Electric Bikes
- Road Bikes
- Triathlon Bikes
- Classic Bikes
- Gravel Bikes
Looking to explore the various categories of Colnago bikes? Check out our brief brand overview on Cipollini Bikes. These Italian-made bikes are known for their unique designs and high-quality materials. From road to track bikes, Cipollini offers a wide variety of options to fit your riding style.
Most Popular Colnago Bikes
Colnago manufactures different types of bikes, including both road and mountain bicycles. Nevertheless, the brand is best known for its road bikes. Lots of winning racers have ridden Colnago road machines and won different prizes in various racing events, such as Classics, Grand Tours, etc., throughout the year.
Let’s now have a look at the most popular Colnago bikes available to purchase:
- Made in Italy Bikes: Colnago C64
- Electric Bikes: Colnago E64 Performance
- Road Bikes: Colnago CLX
- Triathlon Bikes: Colnago KONE
- Classic Bikes: Colnago Master
- Gravel Bikes: Colnago G3-X
Colnago Bike Price Range
Proudly made in Italy, Colnago bikes offer an incredibly high-quality structure and riding experience. Of course, not all models are manufactured in Italy, and their bikes are still made with performance and comfort in mind. All of the models are also equipped with advanced technologies and great components.
Therefore, Colnago bike prices might not be as low as some mid-range models. But don’t worry because their costs will not cause you to break your bank account. Here is the price range of current Colnago bikes available to buy:
- Made in Italy Bikes: $11,899.99 – $12,799.99
- Electric Bikes: $6,799.95 – $7,799.95
- Road Bikes: $4,699.95
- Triathlon Bikes: $3,764
- Classic Bikes: $3,699.95
- Gravel Bikes: $5,683
Are Colnago Bikes Any Good?
It is true that Colnago has remained the most desired road and racing bicycle brand among various bike brands all over the world. This is partly because of the company’s rich history and its comfortable handling. Colnago road bicycles have been considered to cycle like they are on rails, providing the cyclist with an exceptional riding experience. Besides, other types of bikes from Colnago are well made and also deliver great performance on given terrains.
Colnago Vs. Pinarello
Before going into the detailed comparison of Colnago and Pinarello bikes, let’s have a closer look at the major differences between these two famous Italian bike brands, including frame, components, and riding experience.
Frame
Colnago bicycles are typically constructed out of a sturdy frame using high-quality carbon tubes. This strong structure is considered to be able to beat Pinarello’s rigid frame, covering the routed cables through the incorporated handlebar.
In addition, Colnago’s carbon tubes are especially attached to carbon lugs, allowing them to deliver a larger range of bicycle sizes in either horizontal or sloped top tubes.
To aid aerodynamics, Colnago opted to decrease the distance between the frame and the cage by utilizing an indented bottle cage.
When it comes to handlebars, Pinarello uses the Talon Ultra type with 20% of the front and stem contact area, which can lessen drag by at least 5%.
When looking for a mountain bike, it’s important to find the right size. Check out Hood MWR’s Mountain Bike Size Chart to ensure a proper fit. This will not only ensure comfort during your ride, but can also improve performance and safety.
Components
In terms of the chainring, Colnago provides a small and compact chainring, offering a wider array of lower gears compared to Pinarello’s chainset.
Suppose you have a chance to ride any Colnago bike. In that case, you will find a great aerodynamic design when it comes to shifter levers, exceptionally convenient with ease of access, and deliver more relaxed hoods to cycle.
Available options are mechanical Shimano or SRAM, which have an active click feature. It will alert you whenever you shift gears. Moreover, it allows for multiple sprockets to be shifted when held down.
Pinarello forks and chainstays, on the other hand, are particularly built in the hydraulic disc version to enhance bicycle rigidity and developments. For example, the direct-mount brakes for the rim model have partly improved the braking system, making it much more powerful.
The Pinarello’s flagship Dogma 12 offers tires up to 28mm clearance. In general, the bicycle’s fork might be a little bit large for most rider’s taste since it may reduce comfort. However, this should be kept in mind as larger tires can also be susceptible to punctures.
Riding Experience
When it comes to the riding experience, Colnago bikes offer a better and more predictable feeling. You will also feel the road’s responsiveness during the ride. As a result, you tend to trust the bike to go in the direction you point it to.
Pinarello bikes, on the other hand, might feel more explosive. But the handlebars seem to be far more relaxed and located near to the shifters. Their tires also roll with ease and offer excellent traction enough for navigating sharp and steep turns.
In addition, polymer upper cups have been typically built into the headset, which will absorb more strong shocks and vibrations on the road. As a result, riders will feel more cushioned and comfortable.
With a heavy focus on hardness, Pinarello bikes are built into racing champs delivering incredible performance at every turn. You will feel a powerful riding experience exploding in every motion and a better fit for races.
Moreover, Pinarell’s responsive and agile riding feeling provides you with the impression that it can always go faster. At the same time, the narrow wheel design makes it better suited for both weekday and weekend rides. This is because it is sturdy and can endure anything that you throw at it on the road.
If you are wondering how many miles you should ride daily, check out our article “How Many Miles Should I Bike a Day?” for some guidance. It discusses various factors to consider, such as fitness level and riding goals, to help you figure out the right mileage for you.
Colnago Bike Review
Colnago is an Italian bike brand established in 1964 by Ernesto Colnago. The company manufactures both mountain and road bicycles. However, their road bicycles were hugely successful and won lots of global international championships and Grand Tours.
According to Colnago’s rich history, their bikes are said to offer excellent handling and allow the cyclist to enjoy a comfortable riding experience.
The brand’s high-end road bike is the C59, which seems to be a little bit more expensive than the ACR model. However, these two models are both constructed out of carbon and formed into a race-ready geometry.
When it comes to mountain biking, Colnago MTB bikes are unquestionable and typically designed for both cross-country riders and occasional adventures.
Speed racers or those who want to limit the bike weight might find the carbon Colnago 29ers a perfect option. The brand also offers the long 26er model, which is dependable enough for loaded suspension and exceptionally rough terrains. And finally, the 27.5 bicycles are built for regular riders with a passion for adventure.
Pros
- Deliver incredibly fast speed
- Made of aerodynamic geometry
- Relatively lightweight and easy to control
Cons
- Sometimes the riding experience is not really good
Pinarello Review
Like Colnago, Pinarello is also a bike company from Italy. It was founded in 1952 by Giovanni Pinarello and is best well-known for its high-quality road bikes. Nevertheless, the company also provides the cycling market with other models from different ranges, such as cyclocross, track, city, and mountain bikes.
As many of you might know, Pinarello’s flagship racing bike, the Dogma, has been ridden to win the Grand Tour championships. It is made into an asymmetrical geometry, ensuring sturdiness, while the flat tubes are typically designed to provide excellent aerodynamic properties.
You can easily find other bicycles in this high-level range, such as Gan and Bolide. If you don’t want special bikes for professional riding, you can choose other regular models, such as Noer and Razha, which are manufactured for comfort on long-distance rides.
The Dogma Xm is the mountain bike version of Pinarell’s bikes. And for cross-country races, you can consider the Dogma XC model. Both bikes are designed with the same geometry as the brand’s high-end road bike. However, they are adjusted a little bit to suit specific riding purposes.
You can also find other Pinarello bikes for different riding uses, such as the Crossista+ is great for cyclocross, while the Grevil+ is built for aerodynamic sticklers, and the Mercurio is perfect for hybrid riders.
Pros
- Offer amazing power transfer
- Sturdy and durable frame
- Strong disc brakes
- Wide tires of up to 28mm
Cons
- The seatpost doesn’t seem to be really comfortable
If you are looking for a bike with precision handling and a strong racing lineage then consider Pinarello bikes. Pinarello Dogma F12 is a popular option among professional riders. The geometry of their bikes is designed to enhance speed and reduce wind resistance. Check out the best bike brands article for more bike options.
Verdict
In conclusion, Colnago bicycles deliver excellent performance and power transmission. However, they have a small limit in the seatpost, which is less prominent in conveying road imperfections.
Pinarello bikes, on the other hand, are incredibly fast and can actually help you hold the lead, but only if you are brave enough and willing to challenge the extreme riding experience that it causes you to endure.
Colnago Made In Italy
C64
Colnago C64 is the only perfect model made in Italy that the brand has always been proud of. Its frame is completely manufactured in Italy and is the excellent result of over 2 years of research and development. The C64 symbolizes Colnago’s persistence in the history of the company that has gained lots of successes and inventions over the past 60 years.
Stem
When it comes to the stem, the C64 is constructed out of the full brand-new dedicated design. Because of the inner routing of the brake cable housing, the company had to create an exclusive stem to complete the C/D fork. As a result, the stem is compatible with all available handlebars. In addition, it has a bottom port for the brake cable.
Ceramic Speed
In terms of speed, Colnago C64 offers a much more reliable speed. This is partly because of the specific-designed bottom bracket for its frame.
From the very beginning of the ThreadFit 82.5 project, Colnago had a brilliant idea, which was maintaining the reliability of the threaded bottom bracket but providing the advantages of a broader shell, standard of a PressFit system.
The brand has recently gone even further by partnering with high-end bearing brand Ceramic Speed. That being said, the company has designed its own threaded, larger bottom bracket with top-of-the-range bearings. Besides, Colnago will be providing the market with 3 different bottom bracket options, including SRAM, Shimano, and Campagnolo, as an aftermarket buying choice.
Seat Tube
Another great feature of the Colnago C64 is its seat tube. It delivers incredible stiffness and overall lightness without any compromise. This is thanks to the single-piece monocoque. Moreover, it delivers extra rigidity to the frame without adding weight.
Perhaps the most prominent difference between the C64 and the C60 model is that the seat tube combines with the seat tube lug to create a single piece monocoque. This engineering feature, as a result, enhanced the frame’s sturdiness while maintaining the weight low.
Even though the monostay is not straight anymore, it is still homogenized to build the best gluing surface possible. Of course, this also means that Colnago is currently offering 14 various seat tubes for all its 14 different sizes.
Head Tube
Less weight and more technology are exactly what you will feel in the head tube of the C64 model. It is not only more sturdy but also lightweight. This is all because of the decreased thickness, the unique internal rib, and the simplex fiber.
In general, the C64 still keeps the same general shape as the C60 model, and its headtube is equipped with new, advanced technology. This system allows for reduced thickness and less overall weight. What’s more, the company adjusted the shape a little bit to enhance side rigidity.
As with the whole frame, the head tube was modified from an external 3k carbon finish to a more lightweight UD finish.
Fork
Regarding the Colnago C64’s fork, it is entirely redesigned for better stiffness, resistance, and with an overall weight of 40 grams less.
The brand equipped it with an outer rib shape, providing the cyclist a more comfortable feeling (with front sturdiness). At the same time, it helps enhance the ride quality (side rigidity). For added strength and rigidity, Colnago has invented an inner rib in the steerer tube. This can hold the nuts for the top car and remove the demand for an expander plug.
Furthermore, the C64 Disc fork is integrated with a C/D steerer tube shape with the aim of easier and neater assembly. The thru-axle is still 12mm like the C60 but currently has a threaded system to decrease the overall bike’s weight even further.
Colnago Road Bikes
It is true that Colnago has still been the most desired racing and road bike brand that lots of riders around the world want to have. One of the key reasons is the brand’s rich history and comfortable handling. Many cyclists say that Colnago road bikes give them a great feeling and riding experience like they are on rails.
If you are looking for a top-quality road bike, then Colnago road bike should be on your list. Colnago, a leading brand in the cycling industry, offers some of the best road bikes with their extensive range of framesets made from a combination of carbon fiber, steel, and aluminum. Whether you are planning to go for long, endurance rides, or looking for speed, Colnago road bikes will never disappoint you. Check out Colnago road bikes now at Colnago Bikes Brand Overview.
V3Rs
The V3Rs is typically constructed out of a monocoque frame that is ready to make your road dreams come true. Before launching the official model, every detail of the Colnago V3Rs has been researched and developed for maximum comfort and performance.
In fact, when creating the original design for the brand-new V3Rs, Colnago concentrated on its previous, rich experience with the V1-r and V2-r models. As a result, the brand was then able to evolve and enhance the aerodynamic and lightweight concepts for its road bike frames.
It is no exaggeration to say that the V3Rs in particular and the V3 model embodies the best of Colnago technology used in the monocoque frame. It provides the riders with fast speed in different situations, such as windy plains, long climbs, stages, big Tours, and even the most challenging Gran Fondo.
Now, let’s have a closer look at the key features that set the Colnago V3Rs apart from other road bikes on the market.
The design
Even though Colnago still keeps some details from the previous two frameworks, V1-r and V2-r, the company also changed some small features of the V3Rs model to accommodate a number of standards having been strengthened in the past years, especially the ability to fit larger tires – up to 28 inches.
It is not only incredibly clean but also proud of its great aerodynamic qualities along with an unmatched lightness. The Colnago V3Rs comes in direct mount rim brakes and disc brakes, 8 different sizes, from 42s to 58s options for you to choose from.
Geometry
What good is a lightweight road bike if you can’t ride it efficiently? For this reason, the geometry of the V3Rs model has been entirely redesigned. The key features include the longer fork and shorter head tube. This, as a result, delivers better balance, of course, across all the 8 size selections.
In addition, the company has changed the height of the bottom bracket. It is lower than the previous one, boosting the driveability of the bike with enhanced tires, up to 28c.
Carbon Fibre
In order to achieve the new weight target of 790 grams for the size 50s (including the metal parts), Colnago utilized a new type of carbon fiber, allowing the brand to enhance the stiffness to lateral curvatures substantially.
When compared to the previous two models, the V1-r and V2-r, the V3Rs features a 6% higher stiffness in the front head tube region and 12% in the back compartment. What’s more, the ability to absorb vertical impacts has been enhanced substantially, providing the cyclist with more comfort.
The Fork
Generally speaking, the V3Rs’s fork is wholly redesigned and brand-new, which is far more lightweight than that of the previous V2-r model. Accordingly, its raw weight is only around 390 grams, including the TFS steerer thread. And you can find the cut fork weighing just around 340 grams in the average size 50s.
V3
It could be said that all the benefits of Colnago quality are integrated into its top racing bicycle, the V3. When developing the V3, Colnago thought of all riders who desire to take advantage of their investment. Both high-quality carbon and accessories are typically designed to deliver the highest level of performance possible. And it is the affordability that makes the Colnago V3 a flawlessly balanced bicycle from any angle.
The Design
The V3 is an excellent combination of different technical, smart solutions focusing on lightweight and aerodynamics. The line is not only clean but also much needed. It can be well equipped with covers up to 28 inches. There are 8 different versions for you to pick from, but the V3 comes in only one version with disc brakes.
The Fork
For the best compatibility with the disc brake system possible, the company has developed the V3’s fork. The brand-new shape with hollow casings in the top part helps optimize the wheel’s path. As a result, it allows for the use of large tires (28c), lateral rigidity, and ultimate comfort.
Seatpost Closure
Colnago has put lots of effort into this area of the V3’s frame. This is to decrease the general weight of the locking system while increasing its practicality, safety, and strength. Therefore, you will find the brand-new locking system smaller than that of the C64 and V2-r models. In addition, it is incorporated into the frames, allowing for more adjustment in tightening.
CLX
What you will feel when riding a Colnago CLX is lightweight, rigidity, and comfort. In addition, the great monocoque offers superb performance.
The Fork
It features straight blades, aluminum dropouts, and a monocoque carbon fiber frame. The small base expands at the top while the head-set bearing sits directly on the conic carbon fiber head. The design allows the fitting of covers up to 28 mm in size.
Bottom Bracket – Ceramic Speed
Reliability is exactly what you get and feel when riding the Colnago CLX. there will be no compromises for this dependability.
It can be said that the ThreadFit 82.5 is a perfect solution combining the functionality and steadiness of the incredible stiffness and width of the standard pressfit and threaded bottom bracket. What’s more, the ThreadFit 82.5 is always proud of having two new aluminum, lightweight cups that can be easily detached, if needed.
Brakes
The new brake system of the Colnago CLX model delivers great compatibility and ultimate security. It features a conventional design with two brake bodies placed at the front of the bridge and the fork, connecting the saddle stays on the back triangle. As a result, it allows for incredible ease of use and simple maintenance as well as being consistent with all groups.
Colnago Triathlon Bikes
KONE
The only bike in the Colnago triathlon bike range is the KONE. This model is typically designed to challenge speed. In particular, the frame was developed in the wind tunnel to ensure better drivability at the highest speeds possible.
The Geometry
One of the greatest things about the KONE is that it delivers more stability at high speed. This is thanks to the special geometrical design that has been created to offer driveability and stability at high speeds. In addition, you can easily find the perfect fit because the adjustments allow for a large array of positions.
Bottom Bracket – Ceramic Speed
With the new bottom bracket design, you will feel more resistance and stiffness when riding the KONE. The company takes its signals from the pressfit standard with bearings pushed directly into the shell of the brand-new bottom bracket. As a result, it can optimize the size of the frame’s part, then increasing its flexural strength and sturdiness.
Brake System
You will get maximum power with the KONE’S brake system. The front brake is positioned at the top of the fork, surrounded by flexible and aerodynamic cover. As a result, it allows for simple access for both assembly and maintenance later on. Thus, the system will offer increased efficiency, lightness, and braking power.
Water System
Less drag is what Colnago wants to bring to the riders when creating the KONE. Both the bottle and bottle-cage incorporate smoothly with the downtube’s shape. This smart solution allows the riders to get significant benefits while riding as the enhanced surface region maximizes the aerodynamics over this part of the bike frame.
Colnago Classic Bikes
Master
It could be said that the Colnago Master is the bike that became history. It is a jewel of timeless style, with star-shaped steel tubes, chrome lugs, and Precisa forks that create a timeless myth.
Star-shaped Tubes
The tubes are thin, made of strong steel, and feature a star shape. In addition to guaranteeing an unparalleled aesthetic, the Master’s shape also offers greater resistance to torsions. Its tubes are constructed out of DT15V alloy steel, providing the cyclists with a perfect elastic response and is great for long-distance riding.
Precisa Fork
First introduced in the late 1980s, the Precisa fork actually guided all of Colnago’s future fork manufacturing. In those days, its straight blades were radical and enhanced their ability to absorb shocks and vibrations from the ground, as well as providing greater overall control to the bicycle. Both the steerer tube and blades are made of steel.
Lugs
With the Master, the lugs play a very important role in different angels, from the aesthetic standpoint and even the actual structure of the frame point of view. There are three important things about them, including the bottom bracket, seat post, and head tube.
Arabesque
So, the class will have no age, and the Colnago Arabesque is the class. The Arabesque is proudly made in Italy, being a masterpiece of craftsmanship.
Front Lug
It could be said that the front lug is the key feature of the Arabesque’s frame. The prominent feature of the frame is the lugs decorated with an arabesque pattern. This subtle feature has led bike experts to rate it as the priceless jewel of Italian manufacturing. What’s more, the decorative trait raises the frame and actually gives it the status of a true masterpiece in the world of bike riding.
Star-shaped Tubes
It is considered a historical change from the round tube. As many of you might know, one of the most famous hallmarks of Colnago’s bike designs is the star-shaped tube. It is a really prominent feature in the world of steel frames. During that time, it was an avant-garde design and was known for its “record of excellence”. Lots of people remembered it as a turning point in cycling history when the conventional round tube was replaced by a multilateral shape.
Straight Fork
The winning choice of the Arabesque might be the straight fork. This is another huge advantage of Colnago’s bikes in general and the Arabesque in particular. First presented to the cycling market in the late 1980s, the straight fork soon proved its knack for absorbing road vibrations and unparalleled mobility. And it quickly became popular and was soon copied by all of Colnago’s competitors.
Colnago Gravel Bikes
Looking for an off-road adventure? Colnago gravel bikes have you covered. These bikes are designed for rugged terrain and are perfect for exploring the great outdoors. Check out our list of the top 59 bike brands in 2022 to see where Colnago ranks among the best.
G3-X
If you like getting fun on the dirt roads, then the Colnago G3-X will be a perfect bike for you. Let’s take a look at some of the most prominent features of this model.
Bumper
The protective cover for the bottom bracket is made of rubber. Fitted with a dual, detachable screw, it allows for securing a third bottle cage if needed.
Fork
Typically created for spacious wheel clearance, the ability to fit tires up to 42mm maximum. In addition, the required space is ensured to discharge mud on heavy, rough terrains.
Braking System
The G3-X’s braking system is designed based on the use of the trough axle and disc brakes. Both discs have a size of 160mm for stable braking even when the bike is fully loaded with bags and other accessories.
Chainstay
The rubber sheath cover is typically designed to be replaceable for safe riding even on the harshest dirt terrains. In addition, the comprehensive protection of the frame means safety.
Seatpost Closure
As you might not know, the system blocking the saddle post tube is entirely incorporated into the transverse tube. It is lightweight and functional, allowing for perfect grip adjustment along with easy access to the screw head.
Colnago Electric Bikes
Compact and Lightweight
The first thing to talk about Colnago is lightweight and compact electric bikes. This is because the battery is housed in the down tube while the engine is located in the rear hub, saving space and decreasing overall weight. What’s more, this design provides aesthetic and technical advantages, making the bike more lightweight and smoother to ride compared to other conventional electric bikes out there.
Ebikemotion
And the second innovative feature of Colnago electric bikes is the eGRV that can be controlled by turning the pedal support mode on or off. The iWOC button is located on the horizontal tube, allowing the cyclist to turn on the power mode and choose the required power.
There are two models in this range, including the E64 Performance and the eGRV Gravel Bike.
E64 Performance
This model comes in the same design as the Queen C64 of the brand. In addition to the electrical core, the E64 Performance is also conspicuous with its elegant, durable monocoque frame.
EGRV Gravel Bike
The Colnago eGRV gravel bike starts where the road ends. It provides the riders with lots of fun without any compromise. Therefore, the eGRV gravel bike can be ridden on any terrain, from asphalt to the darkest of roads. With the Colnago eGRV gravel bike, there is no need to set limits; just follow your true feelings.
FAQs
What is Colnago?
Colnago is an Italian bike brand that was established in 1964 by Ernesto Colnago.
What types of bikes does Colnago manufacture?
Colnago manufactures both mountain and road bicycles, but their road bicycles have been particularly successful.
What makes Colnago bikes unique?
Colnago bikes are known for their pleasant handling, rich history, and high-end materials. They have been said to ride like they’re on rails, giving the rider a great experience.
What are some notable features of Colnago bikes?
Colnago bikes are known for their high-end materials, including steel, titanium, aluminum, carbon fiber, and mixed materials. They also have unique frames, such as the Bititan, which has a dual titanium down tube.
What is the Colnago C68 Dura-Ace 12v?
The Colnago C68 Dura-Ace 12v is a road bike that has a unique geometry with varying head angles and other key geometry figures throughout its size range.
Conclusion
Colnago is a famous bike brand not only in Italy but also all over the world. The company offers different bike disciplines, from gravel to road, mountain, triathlon, electric bikes, etc. However, Colnago is best known for its excellent road bikes, which have been used in different cycling events and won many world championships, Grand Tours, and Classics for many years.