Frame Colnago V4Rs

Colnago Cockpit CC.01 has a drag surface reduced by up to 16% compared to the cockpits mounted on V3Rs, and at the same time the shape has been designed as a NACA-derived profile in order to have the minimum impact on the air flow, which is laminar and clean while impacting the components. This aerodynamic evolution was carried out without reducing the cockpit’s overall stiffness, which is as important as aerodynamics in sprint and acceleration.

The performances of V4Rs are those of an aero bike.

Compared to the V3Rs, in a real race setup (tested in the wind tunnel with an athlete pedalling at 50kph with 1 bottle and one empty bottle cage) we measured an aerodynamic saving of 3%, corresponding to approx. 13.2 watt. With an advanced aero setup (aero wheels and aero Colnago Computer support) the bike had an aerodynamic saving of 6% (approx. 27.7 watts saved)

Its shape has been revised and perfectly integrated with the new lightweight fork (designed to allow an effective tire clearance up to 32mm) and with the new cockpit. Although the head set upper bearings are bigger than those of the V3Rs, allowing the cables to run inside without the need of the D-Shaped steerer column and enhancing the overall front-end stability, the overall shape has a better drag.

We created internal methodologies to replicate the loading forces of standing-on-pedals and seated positions, and check the overall frame deformation and stiffness. We were able then to define what we call RDS (Real-Dynamic Stiffness), and characterize them in combined multi-load conditions.

In the seated position, loads are applied only on the same plane of the front triangle to replicate all-round riding: Taking the V3Rs as reference value, the V4Rs results as 5% stiffer in this occasion.

In the sprint position there is a combination of loads applied both on the handlebar and on the bottom bracket, with both component laying on the front triangle plane and normal to the frame plane, aimed to simulate the flexural and torsional stresses at oscillating cambers. Having the V3Rs as reference value, the V4Rs results as 4% stiffer in this particular position.

The new V4Rs significantly improves the crash worth of the most exposed parts which may be subjected to impact in racing conditions. An example is given by the completely new designed seat stays, which, besides their more aerodynamic shape, also significantly improve the flexural and impact resistance. The robustness of this design also minimizes the need of maintenance.

Weight distribution has changed from the V3Rs. The front fork is now lighter and the overall weight of the frame kit + handlebar setup has been decreased of 56 grams.

The result is a better handling in corners and more safety and precision when going downhill.

Geometry has been revised to have even more balanced performance in all the different sizes with respect to the V3Rs. For the V4Rs the relationship between seat tube length and reach is almost linear, the stack / reach ratio has been optimized and harmonized among all the sizes, and the chain stay length has been reduced. This geometry affords a better balance, power transfer and the same race feeling for all the sizes.