Forget nano-this and inflatable-that; the latest technology from Wilier is Special Elastic Infiltrated (SEI) Film, thanks to which the venerable and venerated Italian firm has been able to build its lightest -and, of course, bestest – frame yet.
Labelled the Zero 7, the new offering is initially being produced in a limited production run of 200 machines, each ewquipped with Campagnolo Super-Record 11-speed componentry and Bora wheels and FSA’s 386 Evo crankset and finishing kit.
Interest will surely centre, however, on the frame and, in particular, in SEI. Otherwise remarkably similar to the Zero Uno SL on which it is based, the Zero 7 is made in six “revised” sizes and weighs less than 800g for a painted size Medium frame. Similarities include the use of weight-saving zinc oxide (ZnO) nano-particles in the composite resin and the same 60 Ton concept using Mitsubishi T600 carbon fibre, here finished off with a unidirectional fibre outer layer.
The mysteries of SEI composition will, presumably, one day be revealed. For now, Wilier won’t say what it actually is, sticking instead to what it is said to do. It is, as far as can be ascertained, an elastic material, incorporated as a film between two layers of carbon-fibre, that somehow “infiltrates” the neigbouring layers and their resin to add strengthand vibration dampening capacity while improving resistance to delamination. The exact figures claimed are a 35percent increase in impact resistance, an increase in interlaminar shear strength of 18percent and a 12percent boost in three-point flexing strength. What it means in practice is that a composite material incorporating an SEI film can flex further – 12percent, says ‘ere – than one without before it cracks.
Which means the same mechanical properties are achievable using less material and less weight. And, given that the SEI film is ineffective at transfering vibration between the composites layers on either side, it can be expected to contribute to ride comfort by smoothing out road buzz.
Equipped with a conventional seatpost and 1-1/8″ – 1-1/4″ steerer tube and featuring typically delicicious Italian styling, the Wilier Zero 7 would top many wish lists even without the wonders of SEI. We can only look forward to getting a ride and seeing how good it is with this new wonder film.
Wiler Zero 7 Campagnolo Super Record Limited Edition £8250
