With a history spanning over 35 years, this bike has evolved into a true masterpiece. Its lightweight carbon fiber frame, paired with a balanced geometry, delivers a smooth and comfortable ride.

But what sets the Hakka MX apart is its ability to handle it all – from smooth roads to rugged gravel and even challenging singletrack trails.

It truly lives up to its reputation as a “Swiss Army knife” of bikes, making it a top choice for adventure enthusiasts seeking endless possibilities. But that’s not all. In this review, we are mainly focusing on the features that make this an ultimate choice for performance enthusiasts.

Ibis Hakka MX Gravel Frameset Key Specifications At a Glance

Here’s a table describing the key features of the Ibis Hakka MX Gravel Frameset:

Ibis Hakka MX Gravel Frameset Review: Conquer the Unknown

Just as we said, this frameset is here to deliver the best riding experience. So far, the reviews are good. And once you have a good look at the features, you can tell why it’s so popular.

Frame and Geometry 

With an impressive weight of just 1,000 grams, the Ibis Hakka MX Gravel Frameset features a lightweight monocoque carbon fiber frame with a 1.5″ tapered head tube and a refined dropped chainstay.

And the T47 bottom bracket shell adds stiffness and offers a wide range of crankset possibilities, a notable shift from press-fit bottom brackets. The ENVE carbon fork with a 12x100mm thru-axle and the redesigned 12x142mm rear thru-axle meet modern standards.

Moreover, internal cable routing gives the Hakka MX a clean look, especially for Di2 users. However, those who prefer additional bottle mounts over a Di2 port on the downtube might need creative solutions for carrying gear.

Also, the bike’s geometry, with a 72° head tube angle, 73.5° seat tube angle, 70mm bottom bracket drop, 430mm chainstays, and 616mm stack, strikes a balance between a race-oriented feel and comfort for long rides.

Despite not being optimized for any specific type of riding, the Hakka MX lives up to its “Swiss Army knife” reputation. It handled various terrains exceptionally well, making it a versatile and capable choice for adventurous cyclists.

Tire Clearance and Wheel Options 

The Hakka MX’s standout feature is its generous tire clearance, accommodating either 27.5″ x 2.1″ or 700c x 40-45mm wheels and tires.

Riders can choose their preferred setup based on their preferences and the type of terrain they plan to conquer.

The bike comes with either aluminum Stan’s Grail 700c rims or aluminum Ibis 733 27.5″ rims, both offering excellent performance.

Ready for Any Adventure

As the “Swiss Army knife” of bikes, the Ibis Hakka MX excels in various riding conditions, from relaxed road rides to nimble gravel jaunts and technical descents.

It is equally at home on paved roads, rough trails, and challenging singletracks.

From bike-packing adventures to local gravel races, the Hakka MX proves its prowess and encourages riders to push their limits.

Praised Performance

Every summer, the Steamboat Ramble takes cyclists on a 200-mile journey through the breathtaking Colorado high country, boasting challenging climbs and scenic descents. For the event, the Hakka MX proved to be the perfect companion.

The bike’s lightweight frame and 2.1″ Schwalbe Thunder Burts tires handled the pavement and gravel roads with ease, providing a comfortable and fast ride during a particularly technical stretch known as the OG, the Hakka MX impressed with its nimbleness on climbs and stability on rocky descents.

On the final day, the 10-mile climb up Buffalo Pass felt effortless on the unloaded Hakka MX, questioning the rider’s affinity for heavier steel bikes.

Overall, the Hakka MX performed like a dream throughout the Ramble, excelling in speed, comfort, and confidence-inspiring handling on various terrains.

WHO SHOULD CONSIDER THE HAKKA MX?

If your riding interests revolve around gravel and mixed-terrain adventures, the Ibis Hakka MX might be the perfect bike for you. Whether you enjoy riding on gravel roads, flowy singletrack, or paved connections, the Hakka MX’s versatility makes it an excellent fit.

Its ability to handle tire widths of 42mm or more ensures a comfortable and capable ride on varied surfaces.

For those who love bike-packing and embarking on multi-day trips, the Hakka MX is well-suited for both loaded and unloaded riding. Its lightweight carbon frame and balanced geometry make long-distance journeys enjoyable.

While not designed specifically for racing, the Hakka MX offers a performance-oriented design, making it suitable for enthusiastic riders who appreciate speed and agility.

While the Hakka MX can’t replace a specialized road or full-suspension mountain bike, it could potentially combine the capabilities of a cyclocross bike and a hardtail, making it a versatile and practical choice for various riding styles.

Build Options and Pricing 

The Hakka MX is available in two colors and six sizes to suit most riders.

Ibis offers three build options: frame and fork alone, a complete SRAM Rival 1 build, and a complete Shimano Di2 build. 

The Rival 1 build, priced at $3,299, provides practicality and exceptional performance.

FAQ

Q. How does the Hakka MX perform on steep gravel hills?

A: The Hakka MX delivers exceptional performance on steep gravel climbs, providing the necessary agility and control for challenging terrains.

Q. Can the Hakka MX handle rocky descents and technical trails?

A: Absolutely! The Hakka MX is designed to tackle rocky descents and technical trails with ease, instilling rider confidence in demanding situations.

Q. What makes the Hakka MX different from other gravel framesets?

A: The Hakka MX stands out for its versatility, tire clearance, and balanced geometry, making it suitable for a wide range of riding styles and terrains.

Our Final Thoughts

The Ibis Hakka MX Gravel Frameset stands out as a versatile adventure machine ready to conquer any riding condition.

Its lightweight frame, generous tire clearance, and adaptable geometry make it an outstanding choice for adventurous riders.

Ibis continues to deliver quality and innovation, making the Hakka MX a standard-setter in the gravel bike market.

Crafted for those who yearn to ride like a three-time cyclocross world champion, Wout van Aert, this bike is the epitome of high-performance cycling. Embrace the advantages of the new rear triangle design, boasting improved reactivity, and the new fork design that allows compatibility with up to 700c x 40 tires.

With a higher BB for enhanced clearance and a lowered second bottle cage for more comfortable shoulder carrying, the Zolder is engineered to elevate your cyclocross experience.

In this review, we’ll explore the remarkable features that make this bike a true winner in its class.

Bianchi Zolder Disc Carbon Cyclocross Bike Key Features

Here’s a table with all the information about this bike

Experience Speed and Precision: The Bianchi Zolder Pro Carbon Cyclocross Bike Review

The Bianchi Zolder Pro Carbon Cyclocross Bike is a true embodiment of speed, precision, and performance. In this comprehensive review, we’ll try to discuss each feature of this extraordinary bike and explore why it’s a top choice for passionate cyclists.

Pure Cyclocross Fun

The Bianchi Zolder Pro is engineered to be a pure cyclocross racer, making it an ideal choice for riders seeking thrilling off-road adventures. Its ‘cross-specific geometry allows for agile handling and quick maneuverability, enabling you to conquer sharp turns and challenging terrains with ease.

Whether you’re competing in cyclocross races or simply enjoying weekend trails, the Zolder Pro delivers unmatched fun and excitement.

Full Carbon Frame with Disc Brakes

One of the standout features of the Zolder Pro is its full carbon frame, ensuring a lightweight yet robust construction. Carbon frames provide the perfect balance of stiffness and compliance, optimizing power transfer and enhancing overall ride comfort.

The frame is designed to accommodate disc brakes only, which offers superior braking performance and modulation, especially in adverse weather conditions. With the Zolder Pro, you’ll have the confidence to tackle steep descents and stop on a dime when needed.

New Rear Triangle Design: Improved Reactivity

Bianchi has implemented a new rear triangle design in the Zolder Pro, resulting in improved reactivity and responsiveness. This enhancement translates into quicker acceleration and better power transfer when you push the pedals.

Whether you’re accelerating out of corners or sprinting toward the finish line, the bike’s enhanced reactivity will elevate your performance and give you a competitive edge.

New Fork Design: Compatibility with Wider Tires

The Zolder Pro features a new fork design that allows compatibility with up to 700c x 40 tires. This tire clearance provides versatility for riders, allowing them to use wider tires to tackle rougher terrains without compromising performance.

The ability to run wider tires enhances traction, stability, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for adventurous off-road enthusiasts.

Higher Bottom Bracket: Improved Clearance

To accommodate the wider tires and enhance off-road capabilities, the Zolder Pro boasts a higher bottom bracket. The increased vertical distance from the ground provides improved clearance, allowing you to navigate through rough trails, gravel, and mud with ease.

With this feature, you’ll have the confidence to take on challenging obstacles and conquer the most demanding courses.

Lowered Second Bottle Cage: Comfortable Shoulder Carrying

Cyclocross races often require riders to dismount and carry their bikes. The Zolder Pro has addressed this need by lowering the second bottle cage position. This strategic design change allows for more comfortable and spacious shoulder carrying.

When you’re traversing technical sections or steep hills, you’ll appreciate the convenience and comfort of the bike on your shoulder.

Shimano GRX Drivetrain and Hydraulic Disc Brakes

The Zolder Pro comes equipped with a reliable Shimano GRX 600 11-speed drivetrain. The GRX series is specifically designed for off-road riding, ensuring smooth gear shifts and precise control.

Combined with the hydraulic disc brakes, the bike delivers exceptional stopping power and modulation, allowing you to maintain control even in the most challenging conditions. Whether you’re navigating through muddy paths or descending steep slopes, the GRX drivetrain and brakes provide unparalleled performance.

Velomann Wheelset and Components

The Zolder Pro is complemented by high-quality Velomann components, including the VR30 alloy wheelset. The C19 disc brake rims offer a durable and efficient platform for off-road adventures.

The Velomann ST199A.2 stem and RA35A handlebars provide excellent control and stability during aggressive riding. The attention to detail in selecting components further enhances the overall performance and reliability of the bike.

FAQ

Q. Can I use the Bianchi Zolder Pro for other types of riding, like road cycling or commuting?

A: While the Zolder Pro is optimized for cyclocross racing and off-road trails, its versatility allows it to handle other types of riding, such as gravel or adventure cycling.

However, it may not be the most suitable choice for long-distance road riding or daily commuting, as its geometry and tire setup are optimized for off-road performance.

Q. What sizes does the Bianchi Zolder Pro come in?

A: The Bianchi Zolder Pro is available in a range of sizes, including 48cm, 50cm, 52cm, 54cm, 56cm, and 58cm. This wide size range ensures that riders of various heights can find a suitable fit for optimal comfort and performance.

Q. Can I run wider tires on the Bianchi Zolder Pro?

A: Yes, the Zolder Pro features a new fork design that allows compatibility with up to 700c x 40 tires. This means you can run wider tires to enhance traction and stability on rough terrains without compromising performance.

Q. Are the disc brakes on the Zolder Pro hydraulic or mechanical?

A: The Bianchi Zolder Pro comes equipped with hydraulic disc brakes. Hydraulic disc brakes offer superior braking performance, providing better modulation and stopping power compared to mechanical disc brakes, especially in wet and muddy conditions.

Q. Can I attach a rear rack or fenders to the Bianchi Zolder Pro?

A: The Zolder Pro’s design prioritizes lightweight and race-ready features, and as such, it does not have mounting points for rear racks or fenders.

If you require a bike for commuting or touring, you may want to explore other Bianchi models more suited to these purposes.

Conclusion

The Bianchi Zolder Pro Carbon Cyclocross Bike is a champion’s choice for off-road enthusiasts and cyclocross racers alike. Its pure cyclocross design, full carbon frame, and disc brake setup combine to create a high-performance machine ready to conquer any challenge.

The new rear triangle and fork design, along with the higher bottom bracket and lowered second bottle cage, demonstrate Bianchi’s commitment to providing a top-tier riding experience.

If you seek a bike that embodies the spirit of speed, excitement, and adventure, the Bianchi Zolder Pro is the perfect companion for your cycling journey.

One standout feature is its impressive tire clearance, giving you the freedom to tackle even the most challenging terrain with ease.

The roadie-friendly stack and reach ensure a comfortable and efficient riding position, allowing you to go the distance without fatigue.

But that’s not all; we’ve got something special to discuss in the next section. Campagnolo’s Ekar brakes on this frameset are truly exceptional, possibly the best ever seen in the world of gravel biking.

So, stay with us till the end.

Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 Key Features

Let’s have a look at the key features of these Framesets:

Discover the Ultimate Off-Road Machine: Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 Review

It’s called the ultimate off-road machine for several reasons. Let’s have a look at them first.

Design that Sets the Standard

When it comes to gravel framesets, the Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 stands out with its exceptional design and functionality.

One of the standout features is the innovative Chain Stay design, providing optimal power transfer and stability during challenging gravel rides. This design not only enhances performance but also ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, even over rough terrain.

The Frameset’s Twin Arms concept is another remarkable feature that contributes to its superior performance. By incorporating Twin Arms into the design, Pinarello has achieved a perfect balance between stiffness and compliance, offering riders the confidence to conquer any gravel road with ease.

This unique feature is a game-changer for gravel enthusiasts, as it allows them to maintain control and precision without sacrificing comfort.

Redefining Gravel Riding

Pinarello’s Asymmetry Concept takes the Grevil Frameset to a whole new level of excellence. By adopting this concept, the Frameset delivers unrivaled performance by optimizing power transfer and handling.

This innovative design distributes forces asymmetrically, ensuring that every pedal stroke is efficiently translated into forward momentum. As a result, riders experience a more natural and engaging gravel riding experience, allowing them to push their boundaries and explore new horizons confidently.

The Elegance of Performance

The Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 is equipped with the renowned ONDA Fork, which is a true masterpiece of engineering and design.

This exceptional fork is carefully crafted to provide optimal shock absorption and precise handling, making it ideal for tackling rough and unpredictable terrain.

Whether you’re navigating steep descents or powering through challenging climbs, the ONDA Fork keeps you in control, offering a smooth and stable ride that inspires confidence.

Where Performance Meets Durability

The choice of materials in the construction of the Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 plays a crucial role in its overall performance and durability.

By using high-quality carbon fiber, Pinarello has created a frameset that is both lightweight and robust. This material’s inherent strength-to-weight ratio ensures that riders experience the perfect blend of agility and durability, enabling them to conquer long gravel adventures with ease.

Seamless Integration and Enhanced Performance

The Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 is not just about cutting-edge design; it also boasts several user-friendly features that elevate the riding experience. The Frameset’s internal cable routing keeps the bike’s aesthetics clean while enhancing shifting and braking performance.

This seamless integration not only adds to the frameset’s sleek appearance but also ensures smooth and reliable gear changes, reducing maintenance hassles for the rider.

Another thoughtful inclusion is the Dedicated Seat Clamp, which not only provides secure seatpost attachment but also makes adjustments a breeze. This user-friendly feature allows riders to fine-tune their riding position quickly and efficiently, maximizing comfort and performance.

Downtube Bottle Cage Inserts

Recognizing the importance of hydration during long gravel rides, Pinarello has equipped the Grevil Frameset with Downtube Bottle Cage inserts. These inserts offer riders the flexibility to mount additional bottle cages, ensuring easy access to water and nutrition on extended adventures.

This adaptability is a game-changer for endurance riders and bike packers who prioritize staying hydrated on the go.

Removable Front Derailleur Hanger

The Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 takes adaptability seriously, and the inclusion of a removable front derailleur hanger exemplifies this commitment.

For riders who prefer a simpler 1x drivetrain setup, the removable hanger allows for easy removal of the front derailleur, reducing clutter and optimizing the frameset for single-ring setups.

This thoughtful feature showcases Pinarello’s dedication to offering versatile options to cater to a diverse range of gravel riders’ preferences.

Relentless Pursuit of Gravel Biking

The Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 is a testament to Pinarello’s relentless pursuit of excellence in gravel biking. With its revolutionary design concepts, top-notch materials, and user-friendly features, this frameset empowers riders to embrace the spirit of adventure and explore gravel roads like never before.

Whether you’re a seasoned gravel enthusiast or a newcomer to the discipline, the Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 promises an unparalleled gravel riding experience that will keep you coming back for more.

FAQ

Q: What type of riding is the Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 suitable for?

A: The Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 is designed for versatile riding, excelling in both on-road and off-road conditions. It’s perfect for gravel adventures, endurance rides, and mixed-terrain cycling.

Q: What material is the Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 made of?

A: The Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 is constructed using high-quality carbon fiber, known for its lightweight and stiffness properties, ensuring a responsive and agile ride.

Q: Does the Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 come with a fork?

A: Yes, the Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 includes a matching carbon fork, specifically designed to complement the frame and provide precise handling and vibration damping.

Q: Is the frameset compatible with different wheel sizes?

A: Absolutely! The Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 is designed to accommodate both 700c and 650b wheel sizes, offering flexibility to customize your ride based on your preferences and terrain.

Q: Can I use electronic groupsets with the Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021?

A: Yes, the Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 is compatible with both mechanical and electronic groupsets, allowing you to choose the drivetrain that suits your needs and preferences.

Final Verdict

The Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 has certainly proven itself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of gravel biking. With its innovative design, featuring the Chain Stay, Twin Arms, and Pinarello’s Asymmetry Concept, it offers a perfect blend of performance and comfort.

The ONDA Fork provides elegant handling, and the high-quality carbon fiber ensures durability without sacrificing agility.

The Grevil Frameset’s exceptional performance, durability, and adaptability make it a worthy investment for avid gravel riders seeking the ultimate adventure.

If you’re serious about gravel riding and crave top-tier performance, the Pinarello Grevil Frameset 2021 comes highly recommended.