Boardman Bikes have unveiled the AiR/TTE time trial machine ahead of the full Elite Series launch in November.
Boardman’s range is split into two collections: the Performance Series bikes sold through Halfords (we’ve already shown you the model year 2014-15 machines) and the high-end Elite Series available through an independent dealer network.
The AiR/TTE is part of the latter and we’re expecting to see it – and the rest of the range – in the flesh at the British firm’s full Elite Series launch on November 7.
The new time trial machine is also (whisper it) a triathlon bike and has been unveiled at the Kona Ironman World Championship in Hawaii.
The bike has been three years in development, using Computational Fluid Dynamics and, Boardman say, technology derived from Formula One but not used in cycling before, which has resulted in a 20 per cent aerodynamic improvement over the previous AiR TT (the additional E on the new model stands for evolution, naturally).
Most striking is the fully-integrated front-end (the stem flows cleanly into the toptube), a trend we’ve seen established by bikes including the Pinarello Bolide and Ridley Dean FAST, while the front brake has been integrated into the fork blades in, aesthethically at least, a similar design to the LOOK 695 AeroLight.
“The new model has evolved to include a fully internal front brake, internal cabling and fully integrated handlebar and stem system – there’s not a cable, nut or bolt in sight,” said Chris Boardman, the firm’s head of research and development.
“The mechanic-friendly design boasts huge variation capabilities – with only two allen keys needed to make all the adjustments.
“The whole design process has been an emotional and full-on process of design, test, redefine, re-test and has involved a variety of new technologies never used in the cycling industry before.
“Developed from the B56 Boardman R&D development centre with input from all of our elite athletes at every stage of the evolution. The improved aerodynamics came through new laser body scanning technology and CFD design to produce improvements of over 20 per cent.”
Boardman says adjustability is at the heart of the AiR/TTE and the frame can also run either a mechanical or electronic groupset.
Speaking of which, the AiR/TTE will be available as a frameset only, or in two builds, based around Shimano Ultegra Di2 and Shimano RS31 wheels, and Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 and Zipp 404/808 wheels respectively.
Prices will be announced at the November 7 launch and we’ll be there to bring you more on the AiR/TTE, as well as the rest of the Elite Series launch.
Website: Boardman Bikes
