3T STRADA

TThis futuristic steed might not have had the best season on the pro tour – the riders from the now-terminated Aqua Blue team didn’t get on well with the 1x drivetrain, and there were some mechanical issues, such as dropped chains and slipping seat posts. But hey, that’s how progress happens.

Wider tyres, disc brakes and 1x are all standard in mountain biking; and believe it or not, they also seem to work wonders in a wind tunnel. It’s only a matter of time before the roadies catch on.

The geometry is aggressive, getting you forward and down over the front wheel. When the road gets interesting, the disc brakes offer plenty of bite, and the wide tyres give you extra traction. (The frame is designed for 28mm rubber.) The single chainring up front gives the frame a clean look, and offers simplicity in terms of shifting and maintenance.

The only thing that will slow you down will be the questions from curious cyclists you meet on the road.