When Bianchi introduced Countervail Technology in the Infinito CV, they caught everyone’s attention. While many manufacturers were chasing rubberized inserts, gizmos and gadgets to help dampen the ride, Bianchi was busy partnering with Materials Sciences Corporation (a NASA supplier) to deliver an improved ride without external toys. The result is a carbon fiber sandwich that features Countervail viscoelastic material.
Since the introduction of the Infinito CV, they have launched the Specialissima super bike with the wonder-fiber and now the all-new Methanol CV XC hardtail 29er. The new Methanol CV is a pure race machine, but it also features all the latest axle standards to deliver a laterally-stiff frame in concert with much more capable and equally stiff wheels. While Countervail will certainly reduce trail chatter, going with a 27.2mm seatpost will also take the edge off — a bit of a one-two punch.
By going with a new 148×12 BOOST rear axle, Bianchi is able to deliver one of the shortest chainstays on the market at 429mm across all sizes. That should translate into a more playful and fun bike on the trails that’s easier to manual when needed (something that dogs bikes with longer stays). In an interesting move, however, the head angle is markedly steeper than the competition at 71-degrees (Cannondale F-Si is 69.8-deg and Trek Procaliber is 69.5-deg). Unknown at this time is if the Methanol CV can accept a 120mm fork — that might slacken things out just slightly to give the bike a little more descending chops.
Highlight features of the Methanol CV:
- Hi-modulus carbon fiber with Countervail® viscoelastic material
- Refined 29er geometry with sizes available (15,17,19 & 21 inches)
- 12x148mm Boost thru-axle
- Tapered Head tube
- PressFit BB 41x92mm
- High Direct Mount FD
- 27.2mm seatpost for added comfort
- 429mm chain stay length across sizes
- Di2 compatible
- Internal cable routing including dropper post
As it stands, this is a beautiful addition to the race hardtail category and Countervail’s magic sauce should prove to deliver a high-quality ride. Pricing and availability is TBA.
More Info: Bianchi.com
