3T Exploro Racemax Boost

Bleeding edge aerodynamics on an e-bike made for gravel or tarmac

In its non-electric form, 3T’s Exploro Racemax has a reputation as one of the fastest gravel bikes out there, carrying great speed from tarmac onto unsurfaced tracks. Indeed the term ‘aero gravel’ owes its existence to the originality of the frame’s design. Italian racing bike specialist 3T has taken the chassis used on this bike and added a lightweight electric assist system that is so subtle the e-bike version is virtually indistinguishable from its pedal-powered sibling.

This is partly thanks to its use of one of the very lightest motor drives. Mahle’s X20 rear hub system is renowned for being easy to pedal without power and smooth when delivering assistance. The latest X20 benefits from a bottom bracket torque sensor and a new AI computer chip for a more immediate motor response.

The Mahle system also offers a more compact motor and battery alongside a claimed reduction in drag. Its newly increased torque rating of 55Nm should also translate to more climbing power.

A small top tube button is all you need to change between the system’s three power levels, while the elongated shape of the light display makes it easier to tell the approximate charge remaining at a glance. There’s also wireless connectivity to your phone or bike computer.

The Exploro Racemax’s carbon frame is designed for lightness but also combines aerodynamic design aimed at helping you maintain maximum speed. At the same time, the frame offers the versatility that comes with increased clearance for wider tyres. These are essential on a gravel bike, where you rely on larger-volume tyres to cushion the ride when off-road.

The 3T Exploro Racemax Boost is also a highly customisable bike, with a range of models giving a choice of wheel sizes and groupset options. What it isn’t is cheap, or massively well suited to touring-style expeditions. But for all-out speed it’s hard to beat – if you can afford it.

► From £7,999

► 3t.bike