An all-new Colnago superbike is rolling out of Cambiago, Italy and it marks 68 years in business for the manufacturer. Setting the table for a set of three new bikes, the Colnago C68 is the all-rounder with forthcoming allroad and gravel models based on the same molds.
The C68 will also be Colnago’s first foray into the direct-to-consumer business model (in Europe first, US sometime next year). Frames will continue to be handmade in Italy and will now be available in a total of 7 sizes. Both stack and reach vary between all sizes and the overall fit remains racy, but not overly-aggressive. I’ll call the fit “achievable” for most riders. One of the keystone features of the C68 is the new modular tube construction process that does away with the separate lugs and instead integrates them into key frame components.
This new design requires fewer steps to bond together and still offers great sizing options with the ability to also customize your frameset to your exact specifications. Colnago states that by going with smaller frame tube sections, they can easily optimize each part in a way you can’t with a monocoque frameset. So, you can still get that Colnago feel without the classic lugged design from previous C models.
Other key features of the new Colnago C68 include:
- T47 bottom bracket
- Completely hidden cable routing
- Available in rim (late this year) or disc brakes #savetherimbrake
- Titanium frame kits available with titanium printed lugs
- Custom color/geometry available
- Optimized for 28mm tires, but can fit 30-32mm, depending on tire/rim combo
- Forthcoming allroad model will fit 35mm and the gravel model 45mm
- Same seatpost shape as the C64 and V3Rs
- 10-function multitool fits into the steering cap
- Frame weight of 925 grams in 485 size
- New CC.01 integrated handlebar is also available with 16 different variations
- Can use other drop bars, but the Deda Superbox stem is required for proper cable routing
- Uses CeramicSpeed SLT headset with lifetime guarantee
- Electronic shifting only
- Custom frames will come with an NFC tag and NFT file for authenticity and tracking
Of course, all this Italian goodness doesn’t come cheap. These super-premium frames and complete builds will set you back $7099.95 for the standard C68 frame kit, $7999.95 for the titanium-lugged model and $15,999.95 for a full Dura-Ace build. Beautiful, exclusive and botique — definitely not a bike for the masses, but discerning riders will be rewarded with classic Italian performance in a lifetime bike.
More Info: Visit Colnago.com
All images courtesy of Colnago
