Rider’s ride

Bianchi Infinito CV, £4,100, bianchi.com

CV – or Countervail – refers to the impregnation of carbon fibre sheets with a viscoelastic layer, a technology that Bianchi claims improves vibration-damping by up to 80% while also increasing stiffness. Perfect in theory for an enduranceoriented machine, and so it proved in practice. The Infinito plied its trade effectively over both tarmac and gravel, offering a great pace on the former and excellent handling on the latter, tracking lines in a surefooted fashion despite its rider doing his best to upset the cart.

I swapped out the Fulcrum Racing Quattro wheels that came as standard for Vittoria Qurano 60s shod with Vittoria’s Corsa tyres, and both performed admirably even in the punishing conditions. For a more detailed review of wheels and tyres, check out cyclist.co.uk.