The Bianchi Aria e road is probably one of the best looking on the market at the moment.
The Bianchi Aria e Road is, at its name says, an electric road bike. Bianchi is the world’s oldest bike manufacturers, and this is the second e-bike that the Italian brand has created.
The Italian bike manufacturer is well known for their commitment to style and quality. For this reason, this Bianchi electric road bike model features the unmistakable clean design.
An Innovation Award Winner in 2018 at Interbike, this is an extremely capable bike that will give you the assistance that you need.
Technical Aspects
The flush design is aerodynamic, and the carbon frame is well light and strong.
If you are looking for an road bike that does not necessarily look like an e-bike but has all the power of a top tier model, read on for our in-depth Bianchi Aria E-road review.
How it Rides?
From what I can see, it is just amazing. Smooth, powerful when needed, efficient.
The response of the motor is interesting. It will provide the assistance just with the first cadence detected by the system.
As you will see below in the motor section, the torque is not the most impressive one but for the general weight, it is more than enough.
Maybe the brakes can be compared against the ones used in electric mountain bikes. but rest assure the efficiency is good.
Lastly, I noticed there is no reduce response when the battery is close to 10%. However, below that point, it felt like something was missing.
Design: Like an Standard Road Bike
It is impossible to talk about the Bianchi Aria e road without stressing just how good looking this bike is!
It is undoubtedly a performance-focused electronic road bike that will turn heads wherever you go.
To achieve an e-bike that has such a lightweight structure (like the Budnitz Model E) is a challenge.
The vast majority of opinions around the online world are singing Bianchi’s praises when it comes to the design of this one.
The lightweight frame
The Aria e-bike has a very similar frame to the traditional Aria configuration. This means that it is just 12.1 kg (depending on frame size), which is significantly lighter than other e-bikes (almost as light as the Orbea Gain D40 e-bike).
When you are zooming past, it will be difficult to spot the technology and whilst some have praised the traditional bike look, others have said that this could be considered as being dishonest.
Yet the e-road sticker on the top tube is a clear giveaway that this bike has power.
The components distribution and geometry
The San Marco Quadra Saddle has been created using bio-foam padding, with several users reporting that the seating on the Aria is fairly comfortable in comparison with other racing bikes.
Furthermore, the total integration of components ensures zero interference to power transmission.
The motor on this e-bike (discussed below) is more or less hidden to reduce drag.
The bike has internal cable routing, and the aerodynamic frame is characterised by aggressive race geometry.
The frame alternatives
There are seven (7) different frame sizes available to ensure the perfect fit.
This is great since a road bike user needs comfort and maintain a premium riding position all the time.
- Frame for women: 47, 50, 53 and 55 cm.
- Frame for men: 57, 59 and 61 cm.
Many other e-road riders have highlighted that this is an e-bike with excellent manoeuvrability.
Regardless, there have been some suggestions that the shape of the frame means that you may feel nervous about descents.
Exclusive Gear Hub Motor
Bianchi’s Inner Power Drive system features a 36V/250 w rear hub motor that will provide you with the boost you need to go that extra mile.
The inner power drive has been designed specifically for the Aria, and it features Ebikemotion’s powerful X35 V.2 pedal-assist technology- so it looks and feels like a traditional bike.
In line with current e-bike legislation, there is a 15mph cut off point (24 km), and the bike will only provide a boost up this speed.
However, when you do reach top speeds, you can still pedal as normal to keep up (that is the purpose of a road bike!).
Making light work of hills, the Bianchi Aria e road has 40Nm torque and the Shimano BR-R8070 brakes are reported to be precise end accurate.
Aria e Road Controller
The Bianchi Aria e-road comes with a discreet button on the high-step tube. This controller systems is called, iWOC One.
Colours codification
Here is what you need to know:
When pressing the power button, there will be 3 colours flashing:
- White: no assistance (if you feel strong for that).
- Green : basic assistance level.
- Orange : medium power level.
- Red : high level of power delivered by the motor.
In addition to the above, you can view the battery charge by using the LED lighting colour codes.
- While: battery above 75%.
- Green : between 50 and 75% remaining charge.
- Orange : battery juice from 25 to 50%.
- Red (constant flashing) it is bellow 10% (around 52 miles (83 km) distance covered).
What People say about this controller?
The Bianchi Aria e road controller button is flush fit and unobtrusive. However, the lack of a display has been criticised by some, with several users suggesting that the simple button approach lacked the information that they wanted.
Despite of this valid Комментарии и мнения владельцев, some others have suggested that the lack of a display was a bonus as it meant that there were fewer distractions on their ride.
Bianchi Aria e Road app
Whilst the above is a matter of personal preference really, you can also download the Bianchi app to keep track of your cycling data in real-time, including GPS, motor functioning, and battery.
The bike can also sync to a smartphone or Smart-watch (if compatible) for more control.
Connect to the app via Bluetooth and then mount your phone to your handlebars for on the go information.
Other things you may want to know about the app:
- Voice commands activation and de-activation (using Bluetooth).
- Get alerts of any deficiencies.
- Enable / disable locking systems and security (if configured).
In-Framed Battery
This Bianchi e-bike features a slimline 250w battery that is placed inside the down tube of the frame.
Charging the battery
The battery takes around 3 and a half to four (4) hours for a complete charge and a full charge battery equals around 1,200 meters of elevation gain.
For those that like to remove the battery out of the frame, it is obvious this cannot happen.
For this reason, the charging point was located at the top of the low tube for easy access.
The flip side is the exposure of the connection point to water. Even thought this is the case, I think it has been well designed to seal tight.
Bianchi Aria e Road range
A full charged battery can do around 52 miles (or 83 km) – estimated range, at which point the iWOC controller will start flashing red.
As mentioned before, this means you would have 10% battery life left.
The battery performance will depend on the power mode you use, the terrain and inclination.
As you can see, the range will depend directly on what the riding mode you select and topography.
Nevertheless, if you want more distance to be covered, the you can acquire an extra battery pack that will sit at your water bottle area.
Tires Wheels
The Aria electric road is equipped with aluminum Vision TriMax wheels and 28mm Vittoria Rubino tires.
Allowing for excellent ride quality, even on bumpy terrains, the front and rear rims feature secure thru-axles that will ensure flex-free performance and accurate steering.
The tires offer a premium grip and are puncture resistant. However, racers and more performance-minded cyclists have reported that they chose to swap the tires on this Bianchi model for something with more grip.
The Price
Although the Bianchi e road bike could be considered expensive, when you think about the performance, abilities and specifications, the price is to be expected.
This is an investment that is likely to last for years to come – depending on the maintenance done.
However, it has been suggested that come of the components are not quite up to the quality that one would expect of an e-bike with this price tag, who knows.
Bianchi Aria e Road Review: Bottom Line
Combining traditional Italian bicycle craftsmanship with the latest in innovative e-bike technology, this electric road bike is a great alternative for serious cyclists rather than casual commuters.
Allowing for subtlety, the design of this bike ensures that it has the speed and control of the original Aria whilst providing the power of a quality drive system.
I think what is more interesting is the overall weight. Even if the battery gets drained, I’m sure you will be able to ride it without hassle.
I guess the one thing that could be a deal breaker is the price. Well, nothing out of the ordinary considering the brand name, quality of components and category.
If you are just looking for a bike to get you from A to B, the Bianchi Aria e road may not be the one, however if you want performance, aerodynamics and power when needed, this model could be one.
Images courtesy of Bianchi.
Whats is your input regarding this road electric bike? Please review below:
BIANCHI ARIA E-ROAD ULTEGRA ELECTRIC BIKE
This item / size combination is out of stock. Please contact the store as more may be on order. You can call 01363 774 773 or email us here.
Designed for expert riders with the desire to have the same performances of an aero racing bike with powerful electrical assistance in the background.
Specification
MOTOR: Ebikemotion X35 Plus 250W motor unit, iWOC One remote control, BLE and ANT compatible
BATTERY: Ebikemotion X35 250Wh
FRAME: Aria E-Road carbon, mechanical/electronic shifting compatible, PressFit 86,5x41mm BB, head tube 1.1/4-1.1/8, integrated seat clamp, full carbon dropout, flat mount, QR system, OLD 135mm, sizes 47-50-53-55-57-59-61cm
FORK: Bianchi Full Carbon Disc 1.1/41.1/8, thru axle 12x100mm
HEADSET: Fsa Orbit C-33, NO.44E, 1.1/81.1/4
SHIFTERS: Shimano Ultegra ST-R8020 2x11sp, hydraulic disc brake, Shimano Ultegra ST-R8025 2x11sp, smaller lever size for sizes 47/53cm
REAR DERAILLEUR: Shimano Ultegra RD-R8000 GS 11sp
FRONT DERAILLEUR: Shimano Ultegra FD-R8000
CRANKSET: Shimano Ultegra FC-R8000 50x34T, Hollowtech II, Crank Length: 170mm-47/53cm, 172.5mm-55/59cm, 175mm-61cm
CHAIN: Shimano Ultegra CN-HG701-11, 11sp
CASSETTE: Shimano 105 CS-R7000, 11-12-13-14-16-18-20-22-25-28-32T
BRAKE LEVERS: included w/shifters
ROTOR: Shimano SM-RT86, diam. 160mm
RIMS: Vision Trimax Alloy disc, c/unità motore mozzo posteriore Ebikemotion X35
REARHUB: Ebikemotion X35 Plus motor unit
TIRE: Vittoria Rubino IV 700×28, 60TPI, G2.0 Graphene
STEM: Velomann 3D Forged alloy 2014, raise. 6°, height 38mm, 1.1/8, Ext: 90mm-48/50cm, 100mm-52/54cm, 110mm-56cm, 120mm-58cm
HANDLEBAR: Reparto Corse Aero Compact, alloy 6061 diam. 31,8mm, reach 74mm, drop 116mm, Size: 400mm-44/53cm, 420mm-55/59cm, 440mm-61cm
GRIPS: La Spirale Ribbon cork
SEATPOST: Full Carbon Aero special dimension, special Clamp type with alloy head adjustable and reversible /- 35mm; lengh: 300mm-47/50cm, 350mm-53/61cm
SADDLE: Velomann 1285 URN, steel rails, lenght/wide 278x144mm
Our delivery charges are based on delivery to mainland Britain. For Northern Ireland, Northern Scotland and all offshore UK islands there is an additional charge. Orders placed after 1pm will be classed as the next working day.
Click Collect
FREE (0-5 working days)Choose to collect your bike from one of our four stores in Devon. If paying by finance your order must be delivered to your home address, alternatively, you can apply in-store and take your bike home the same day. Paying by finance online and collecting in-store is currently not possible.
Bike Delivery
Bikes under £500. £35 (1-7 working days)Bikes over £500. FREE (1-7 working days)
Clothing, Parts Accessories
Standard Delivery over £50. FREE (4-7 Working Days)Standard Delivery under £50. £4.49 (4-7 Working Days)
Northern Ireland, Highlands and Islands
Bikes £100Turbo Trainers £100
Supplier Warehouse Products
Please allow 7-10 working days for your order to arrive.NOTE: Due to worldwide parts availability issues and increased demand occasionally delivery times may exceed this. If this is the case we will contact you and offer you the option to wait, swap to an alternative product or receive a full refund.
If you are unavailable to take delivery of your order at your address we may be able to arrange for the courier to leave your goods in a safe place or with a neighbour. Please be aware that we can take no responsibility for lost or damaged goods that you have chosen not to sign for. We regret that we can accept no responsibility for subsequent damage that may occur, once the order has been left at the delivery address.
If at a first attempt the courier fails to deliver the order then they will leave a card and it will be up to the recipient to make arrangements to receive the order from them. The courier will try to deliver the order once more free of charge, after this they will charge out at their standard rate, this will be advised by the courier at the time of arranging any subsequent deliveries.
BIKE DELIVERIES
We can usually arrange for couriers to deliver between 9.00am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday. You will be contacted to arrange a convenient time once your order has been processed.All bikes are fully built and setup by a professional mechanic before being boxed up and sent out. If you require your bike not to be built please request this at the time of purchase.Bike delivery times can vary between 1. 5 working days to allow time for your bike to be built and setup before we send it out.
DELIVERY OUTSIDE OF THE UK
We do not currently offer delivery outside of the UK.
RETURNS, REFUNDS AND CANCELLATION POLICY
Bike Returns: If you desire to return your bike, you must keep it in the box and call us on 01363 774773 to arrange a collection.
Please note the following:
- If the bike is damaged or the incorrect bike is sent, we will cover the cost of collection and delivery of the replacement bike.
- If we send the correct bike, but upon inspection, you decide it is not the bike for you, there will be an £100 charge for the collection.
- Please do not ride the bike as a full refund cannot be given if the bike has been used.
Damaged Goods: If order(s) are broken or spoiled when it is delivered then you must notify us as within 24 hours of delivery, otherwise the returns policy becomes invalid. You will have the option of returning the whole order or just the affected items. You can notify us by phone on 01363 774773, email on web@bikesheduk.com or by post by writing to The BikeShed, Union Road, Crediton, Devon, EX17 3AN. All refunds under this returns policy will be paid within 30 days of you notifying us, providing that the merchandise has been collected by our courier. Any items being returned must be in their original packaging to prevent any further damage.
Cancellations: You can cancel an order at any time up to 7 days from the date of delivery as long as the items remain unopened and intact by calling us on 01363 774773, contacting us via email on web@bikesheduk.com or by post by writing to The BikeShed, Union Road, Crediton, Devon, EX17 3AN. You will have responsibility for looking after the items until we collect it, we will reimburse the price of the items within 30 days from the date of which you inform us that wish to cancel the order, provided that the order has been collected by the courier. Unfortunately we are not able to reimburse you the delivery cost of sending unwanted items back to us.
AVAILABILITY
Unfortunately from time to time items may become unavailable, we will do our best to minimise this occurrence however if it should happen then we will contact you to suggest an appropriate alternative.
Looking to spread the cost of your new road, mountain, electric, or commuter bike? We’ve teamed up with Novuna to offer you the option of spreading the cost of your new purchase. Choose from interest-free finance over 12, 18 or 24 months or interest-bearing finance over 36, or 48 months.
Spend £250 or more on any items with us (even discounted items) and you can spread the cost with finance. It takes just a few minutes and you only have to put down a 10% deposit.
Choose the number of months you’d like to spread the cost over from the options below. Bike Shed finance is provided by Novuna.Credit subject to status and affordability. Terms Conditions Apply. Credit is provided by Novuna Personal Finance a trading style of Mitsubishi HC Capital UK PLC, authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register no. 704348. The register can be accessed through http://www.fca.org.uk
| Term (Months) | % APR | Deposit |
| 12 | ||
| 18 | ||
| 24 | ||
Interest Bearing Finance Example
Up to 48 months 15.9% APR representative interest bearing finance.Spread the cost with interest-bearing finance available online and in-store.
This simple finance option allows you to spread the cost of your purchase over 24, 36, or 48 months.All you need to do is:1. Spend a minimum of £250 and above2. Place a 10% deposit3. Minimum finance amount after deposit £225 and above
These 3 simple interest-bearing finance options help you spread the cost of your purchases. 24 months interest bearing finance on orders of £250 and above 36 months interest bearing finance on orders of £250 and above 48 months interest bearing finance on orders of £250 and above
The table below shows you how much the monthly repayments will be based on the total order value.
| Order Value | Term (Months) | Deposit (10%) | Monthly Payments |
| £1,200 | |||
| £2,000 |
Representative Example
| Cash Price | £1200 |
| Deposit | |
| Loan Amount | £1080 |
| APR Representative | |
| Interest Rate | 15.9% p.a fixed |
| 36 Monthly Repayments of | |
| Term of Loan Agreement | 36 months |
| Total Amount Payable |
Interest-Free Finance Example
Up to 24 months 0% APR representative interest-free finance.Spread the cost with interest-free finance available online and in-store.
This simple finance option allows you to spread the cost of your purchase over 12, 18 or 24 months.All you need to do is:1. Spend a minimum of £250 and above2. Place a 10% deposit3. Minimum finance amount after deposit £225 and above
These 3 simple interest-free finance options help you spread the cost of your purchases. 12 months interest bearing finance on orders of £250 and above 18 months interest bearing finance on orders of £250 and above 24 months interest bearing finance on orders of £250 and above
The table below shows you how much the monthly repayments will be based on the total order value.
| Order Value | Term (Months) | Deposit (10%) | Monthly Payments |
| £400 | |||
| £1000 | |||
| £1000 | |||
Finance FAQ
How do I choose to PaybyFinance?Just select the finance option on the checkout page or let the sales consultant know if you’re buying in one of our stores.Who is eligible to apply for online finance?To apply for online finance, you must be over the age of 18, work at least 16 hours a week, or be retired with an income. You must also be a resident of the United Kingdom and have lived in the UK for the last 12 months or more.Unfortunately, we are unable to offer online finance to residents of Eire. Homemakers aren’t excluded from applying under their own names; however, the employment details of your spouse/partner will be required in order to process your application.When do my repayments start?Your monthly repayments will begin one month after your purchase has been delivered. Are there any arrangement fees or hidden extras for credit?No. There are no arrangement fees or hidden extras.Applying for online financeApplying for online finance couldn’t be easier or more convenient. When you buy online from The Bike Shed trading as The Bike Shed you have the choice of applying for finance by adding your purchase to the shopping basket, selecting the finance option, and completing an online application form. Just follow the simple instructions, enter your personal details as required and we’ll do the rest.The whole process only takes a few minutes and is simple and secure. Once your finance application is approved, you will then be advised of how to sign the finance agreement and you will also receive an email confirming these details.
Please read the agreement carefully checking that all the details are correct, then either electronically sign the agreement or print and sign the agreement in both boxes. Post the signed agreement to the address shown on the covering letter of the agreement.Following receipt of your finance agreement and a few additional checks, your goods will be dispatched.
Your questions answered
Here’s some of the most commonly asked questions regarding online finance.Once my application is approved, what happens next?Within minutes of your application being approved, you will be presented with the options to either e-sign or print and return your finance agreement.If you choose to e-sign your agreement, a PDF of your agreement will be displayed on the screen. You should read the agreement carefully before clicking all the relevant sections agreeing to its terms.Once you have agreed to the terms of the finance agreement The Bike Shed trading as The Bike Shed will be notified and you need do nothing more.If you choose to print and return your agreement you should print the agreement, read it carefully and then sign the document following the instructions on the covering letter. This signed document should then be posted to the address shown on the covering letter of the finance agreement.Note that products will not be allocated to your order until your completed and signed agreement is returned and received by Novuna Personal Finance. Shipment of your goods will follow soon after your agreement has been returned and received.Will you credit score me and if so, what does this mean?Credit scoring is the process used by financial services companies to evaluate the credit risk of new applicants. This technique will be applied to your application for online finance. Credit scoring works by awarding points for each answer given on the application form such as age, income and occupation, together with information obtained from credit reference agencies.This information allows consistent decisions to be provided, ensuring all applicants are treated fairly. Credit scoring does not discriminate on the grounds of sex, race, religion or disability.If you decline my application, what is the reason?In addition to credit scoring, Novuna also takes into account confirmation of your identity, validation of certain application details, existing commitments, and information held at the credit reference agencies. Though Novuna is unable to provide you with the main reason for declining your application, it is usually based on one, or a combination of the following: Your credit score (please note that every finance company will score you differently) Adverse credit reference agency information You are considered to be overcommitted You are aged under 18 Your existing account performance with other lendersWhat type of information do credit reference agencies hold about me?Some of the information is public information, for example, electoral roll, County Court Judgments, and bankruptcies. Other lenders may also file information about accounts you hold with them for instance this could include your payment history and outstanding balance on these accounts. Any requests for credit, where a credit reference search has been undertaken, will also be filed, although the result of the request is not recorded.How do I obtain a copy of this information?Send a request to the relevant credit reference agency, together with details of all addresses at which you have lived over the last 6 years: Experian Limited, Customer Support Centre, PO Box 9000, Nottingham, NG80 7WF Equifax Ltd., Customer Service Centre, PO Box 10036, Leicester, LE3 4FS TransUnion International UK Limited, Consumer Services, PO Box 491, Leeds, LS3 1WZThe above-listed agencies will provide details of information relating to these addresses. If you believe that the information is incorrect, you can ask the agency to correct it.If my application is not successful, can I re-apply?Yes. We acknowledge that circumstances change and just because a previous application has been refused, it does not mean that a further request will automatically be turned down. We do suggest, however, that you leave at least 6 months between applications.
What is the Cycle to Work Initiative?
The Cycle to Work Initiative is a Government back scheme to provide tax-free bikes. It’s a brilliant programme where everyone wins – employees make big savings on new bikes, employers get a healthier workforce and save money too! You can even get an electric bike on the scheme to make your commute easier.
There are numerous providers of the government-backed cycle to work initiative (Cyclescheme, Cycle Solutions, Green Commute Initiative, Halfords, etc) and Bike Shed is generally able to accept vouchers from any of them. Please get in touch for confirmation.
How it Works
The cycle to work scheme is a government initiative which allows employees to hire bicycles tax-free from their employers using salary sacrifice. As the payments into the scheme are made before tax and national insurance are calculated this leads to potential savings of up to 42%
In essence your employer buys the bike and accessories for you to ride to work and you ‘hire’ it from them. The ‘hire’ period is usually 12 or 18 months with monthly payments taken directly from your payslip before tax deductions.
As you don’t pay income tax or national insurance on the scheme payments you will save between 32% and 42% (depending on your tax Band) on the overall cost of your new bike and accessories. Although your employer owns the bike, effectively it’s yours to use as you wish throughout the ‘hire’ period.
How much can you save buying a bike through Cycle to Work schemes?
You can save between 32% and 42% on a new bike with the cycle to work scheme. The exact amount you can save is determined by your tax Band, which is determined by your annual salary.
Here is an example: ( At the time of writing ) If you want to buy a bike for £2500 and earn under £50,000 you would pay £1700, whereas if you earn over £53,000 a year you would only pay £1450.
Enter your details to see how much you could save.
How to apply
Check that your employer is registered with a cycle to work scheme and make a note of the scheme name and your ’employer code’.
Then either come into one of our stores, visit our website or contact us to ask us for a quotation and choose what bike and/or accessories you want to buy.
Once you have made your choice contact us to reserve your items and provide all the information you need to make your claim. This will avoid you being disappointed if the goods you wanted sell out why you are making your claim.
Next visit the website for your employers chosen cycle scheme, create an account and make your claim. You will need your employer code to complete this.
Once your employer has approved your application, you will receive your letter of collection.
Finally you bring this to us and redeem your bike and accessories. The process usually takes between 2-3 weeks.
Cyclescheme is available for mail order, however, a delivery charge of £59 will apply for bikes under £750. This charge can be included in your quotation, assuming it remains below the limit, otherwise, it must be paid for prior delivery.
For any questions regarding Cyclescheme please contact us
Please Note: Cyclescheme is not available on bikes that are on Sale or on Promotion unless specifically stated.
FAQ’s
Is there a limit to how much you can spend?
NO. There is no longer a price limit on the cost of the bike you buy. Unless your employer has imposed their own limit.
Can I buy a bike AND accessories?
YES. You can buy a bike and associated safety equipment such as helmets, shoes, clothing, luggage, pumps, lights and locks. Prohibited items are GPS ride trackers and navigation devices, bike racks for cars, cameras, turbo trainers or rollers, gift cards, nutritional products and foodstuffs.
I already have a bike, can I buy another one on a Cycle to Work Scheme?
YES. You are allowed to buy a bike on the cycle to work scheme if you already own a bike.
I already own a bike, can I just buy accessories on a Cycle to Work Scheme?
YES. You can buy accessories on their own but you are limited to accessories that you could use while commuting to work such as as helmets, shoes, clothing, luggage, pumps, lights and locks. Prohibited items are GPS ride trackers and navigation devices, bike racks for cars, cameras, turbo trainers or rollers, gift cards, nutritional products and foodstuffs.
What are you not allowed to buy on a Cycle to Work Scheme?
Kids bikes or prohibited items: GPS ride trackers and navigation devices, bike racks for cars, cameras, turbo trainers or rollers, gift cards, nutritional products and foodstuffs.
Can I buy an electric bike on a Cycle to Work Scheme?
YES. You are allowed to buy electric bikes through a cycle to work scheme. They are are a great choice for commuting allowing you to arrive at work in a much fresher state, ideal if your workplace does not have dedicated showers. You could even tackle a longer commute that would have been challenging on a traditional bike.
What Cycle to Work Schemes do the Bike Shed accept?
We accept all cycle to work schemes such as Cyclescheme and Cycle 2 Work, Bike to Work.
What happens at the end of the ‘hire’ period?
You have a choice, you can return the bike, you can take ownership of the bike and pay a fee based on ‘fair market value’ or you can extend your hire agreement to 36 months for a single small refundable deposit.
If you decicde to take ownership of the bike, then HMRC has set fair market values that employers must pay to keep the bike. So, you may be asked to pay up to 25% of the value of a bike costing more than £500 after 12 months.
Please note: there is no guarantee that your employer will transfer ownership to you at the end of the hire period. Usually employers are happy to do this, but you should check with your HR department to be sure.
If you decide to extend your hire you will be asked for a refundable deposit of between 3-7%. During your extended hire agreement, you will make no further monthly payments. At the end of the 36 months you can either choose to send your bike back to your Cycle to Work provider (and your deposit will be refunded) or you take ownership of the bike. No further payments are needed.
Here at the Bike Shed we always strive to offer value for money and offer friendly expert advice on the best quality products we can source.
We are great supporters of shopping locally due to the benefits it has on our local economy, employment, and community. However, we do not want to see you disadvantaged by choosing to shop with us and we, therefore, will match any UK based competitors’ on the following conditions:
The product must be available with the UK supplier even if discontinued or an older model.
If assembly is required there may be an additional charge for this.Please note: If the Bike Shed assembles your bike not only will your warranty be more robust you also qualify for a free first service with us.
We reserve the right to contact the seller to verify the price/availability/accuracy etc.
Used, ex-demo, ex-display, returns, and all online auction sites do not qualify.
Where the item does not match the above, we still attempt to be competitive in terms of price, quality, and service.
We reserve the right to decline the price promise at our own discretion
Buy a bike from the Bike Shed and your first service is on us!
Simply arrange a convenient time with your local store and our bike mechanics will give your bike a thorough check and tune up to ensure you’re riding as smoothly and efficiently as possible.
Your free service needs to be taken between approximately 6 weeks and a maximum of 3 months from the date of purchase.
Please note: To qualify for the free service you are responsible for bringing your bike into a store. Unfortunately collections are not possible.
Looking for a more comprehensive service? Check out our workshop page for more details
Bianchi Aria
Bianchi’s Oltres have always done really well in road.cc reviews. The only issue is that the cheapest complete Oltre XR1 is £2,699.99, the Oltre XR3s start at £2,799.99 and you won’t get an Oltre XR4 for less than £5,200. The Aria is hardly a budget option but it does bring Bianchi‘s aero bike range down to a more affordable (yes, it’s all relative) level.
The first thing you notice when riding the Aria is just how punchy it is and how ready to respond to increased effort. I went back and double-checked the weight of our 57cm model – 8.25kg (18.19lb) – because in use it feels a lot lighter and more chuck-aroundable than that.
The oversized bottom bracket shell (it’s home to a press-fit 86.5 x 41 BB) holds everything in check well when you crank up the power, while the tapered head tube (1 1/8in upper bearing, 1 1/4in lower bearing) and full-carbon fork prove similarly solid at the front end. I couldn’t detect any flex either when cornering hard or throwing the bike around on steep climbs.
One of the Aria’s other attributes is easy manoeuvrability. Some aero bikes are good for straight-line speed but they’re single minded and don’t much like to deviate from that. The Aria is more than happy to flick from one line to another to navigate through a group or avoid something unexpected in the road.
Drag reducing
The Aria boasts many features designed to reduce drag, the most obvious being the fork legs and frame tubes that are slim and deep-section. The fork crown is integrated into the frame, the down tube is dropped with a slight cutaway around the front wheel, and the seat tube is cutaway around the rear wheel.
Bianchi says that the design of the slim seatstays was inspired by that of its Aquila time trial bike. These meet the seat tube low down to reduce the frontal area and manage the airflow in the rear brake area. The seatpost has an aero profile and comes with a wedge-type clamp that’s recessed into the top tube.
Bianchi says that the bike ‘has been heavily inspired by our extensive wind tunnel testing and cooperation with pro riders’, although it doesn’t say whether the Aria itself has been subject to CFD (computational fluid dynamics) analysis or taken to the wind tunnel, and doesn’t put any specific figures on the bike’s aero performance.
We don’t have access to a wind tunnel and we’re not in the business of guessing, so the furthest I’ll go is to say that lots of tried and tested aero features are present and correct here.
With most of the drag when riding coming from you, the rider, rather than the bike, it’s important that you get into an efficient riding position, and the Aria is designed to help you do that. Clearly, there wouldn’t be much point going to the trouble of developing aero tube shapes and then having the rider sit bolt upright in the saddle.
The Aria is available in eight different sizes from itty bitty 44cm right up to a big ol’ 61cm. I’ve been riding the 57cm model (I’m actually between Bianchi sizes; I could do with a 58cm Aria but there’s no such thing) which has a 570mm effective seat tube (it would be 570mm if the top tube was horizontal) and a 560mm effective top tube. The head tube on this model is 155mm, which is certainly short.
The stack on this model is 557mm and the reach is 395mm. To save you the trouble of translating all those figures into something that actually makes sense, the bottom line is that the Aria puts you into a low, flat backed riding position when you’re down on the drops, which is exactly what you’d expect.
All of the Aria’s figures are the same as those of Bianchi’s top-level Oltre XR4, as ridden by Team LottoNL-Jumbo in the world’s biggest races, so you know what you’re going to get here. This is a racing geometry aimed at riders with a need for speed. If you want a high front end for comfort, well, you can run a few spacers underneath the stem but, really, this isn’t the best setup for you.
The Aria provides quite a firm ride, which isn’t a euphemism for harsh – it’s certainly not that. There’s not a whole lot of up/down frame flex but the 25mm Vittoria Zaffiro Pro tyres offer a decent level of road buzz damping while the flat San Marco Quadra saddle comes with a generous amount (by race bike standards) of Biofoam padding. There’s a lot of flex in the glass-fibre-reinforced shell too. Taken as a whole, though, the Aria feels more solid and sturdy than soft and yielding. I didn’t feel the ride was as smooth as that of the (much more expensive) Bianchi Oltre XR4, for example.
Centaur back
We told you previously that Campagnolo was bringing its Centaur groupset back from beyond the grave and this is the first bike we’ve had in for review with the new version fitted. It’s now 11-speed and features technology that has trickled down from the brand’s higher level groupsets.
It’s worth saying that the Ergopower controls provide all the comfort of Campag’s top-level levers and the Vari-Cushion natural silicone hoods are grippy even when rain or sweat has made them wet.
The other key feature, as far as I’m concerned, is that the dual pivot brakes (front and rear) are good. Really good. I rode a bike fitted with the Centaur groupset when Campag took me out to the launch and I’ve ridden the Aria with a couple of different wheelsets fitted, and the brakes have bitten hard on all of them. Seriously, you’ll be surprised. It’s particularly impressive given that Centaur is Campag’s fifth-tier groupset.
The one groupset component choice I had an issue with was the compact chainset (50/34-tooth chainrings). An aero bike necessarily has an emphasis on speed – that’s in its DNA – so I’d rather have a 52/36-tooth chainset (Centaur isn’t available in a 53/39-tooth option) to keep piling on the power that little bit longer on the descents. That’s an individual preference, obviously.
The Aria is available in two other builds: Shimano 105 (£2,299.99) and Shimano Ultegra (£2,649.99), although it’s a 50/34-tooth chainset whichever option you choose.
The Vision Team 35 Comp alloy clinchers (the 35 refers to the millimetres of rim depth) aren’t especially lightweight but they’re competent and strong. The hubs are CNC machined and fitted with sealed cartridge bearings. Despite some wet miles, no water or grit has got in and that bodes well for their durability. Personally, I’d go with something offering a higher level of performance for racing, but these should see you right for training rides in all weathers.
Speaking of racing, Bianchi bills up the Aria as being suitable for triathlon if you fit some clip-on aero bars. Of course, you could fit aero bars to any road bike with a suitable handlebar, but I guess the point Bianchi is making is that an aero frame with a short head tube has better tri credentials than most. Fair enough. That said, the seat angle on our 57cm review bike is 73.5 degrees which is well short of what you’ll find on a dedicated time trial/triathlon bike, so getting into a full aero tuck will always be more of a strain.
Overall
The Bianchi Aria might not have quite the glamour of the Oltres, but it’s still a solid proposition. It comes equipped with tried and tested aero features, handles sharply and reacts fast. If you’re after something relaxed for getting in the big miles in comfort then this isn’t the best choice for you, but if you’re performance-driven and you’re looking for a like-minded bike, the Aria is definitely worth checking out.
Verdict
A fast-reacting aero road bike in a race geometry for those with a need for speed
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Make and model: Bianchi Aria
Size tested: 57cm
State the frame and fork material and method of construction. List the components used to build up the bike.
Frame Aria carbon, mechanical/electronic shifting compatible, PressFit 86,5x41mm BB, head tube 1 1/8in-1 1/4in, integrated seat clamp, full carbon dropout
Fork Bianchi Full Carbon Aero
Headset FSA Orbit C-33, NO.44E, 1 1/8in. 1 1/4in
Shifters Campagnolo Centaur Power Shift 11sp Ergopower
Rear derailleur Campagnolo Centaur 11sp
Front derailleur Campagnolo Centaur
Crankset Campagnolo Centaur Ultra-Torque black, 50/34T, Crank Length: 170mm-44/53cm, 172.5mm-55/59cm, 175mm-61cm
BB Campagnolo Ultra Torque OS-Fit integrated cups 86, 5x41mm
Chain KMC X11-1 EPT finish
Sprocket Campagnolo Centaur 11sp 11-29T
Brakes Campagnolo Centaur (dual pivot FR)
Brake levers included w/shifters
Wheels Vision Team 35 Comp
Tire Vittoria Zaffiro Pro Slick 700×25
Stem Reparto Corse Alloy 6061, rise /-7°, 1.1/8, Ext: 70mm/44cm, 90mm-47/50cm, 100mm-53cm, 110mm-55/57cm, 120mm-59cm, 130mm-61cm
Handlebar Reparto Corse Compact, Flat Top, alloy 6061 diam. 31,8mm, reach 126mm, drop 77 mm, Size: 400mm-44/53cm, 420mm-55/59cm,440mm-61cm
Seatpost Bianchi Full Carbon Aero, offset 20mmm, length: 250mm-44cm, 300mm-47/50cm, 350mm-53/61cm
Saddle Selle San Marco Squadra
Water bottle Bianchi Loli 600ml
Water bottle cage Elite Paron Race composite
Tell us what the bike is for, and who it’s aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about the bike?
The Bianchi Aria is a fast performance-oriented aero road bike. Built for lovers of speed, it is the perfect partner for your road challenges.
Our objective has been to extend the range of Bianchi aero road bikes with an all-new model based on a highly aerodynamic frame-fork system, equipped for any road race, and easily set-up for triathlon events.
To achieve fast rides from full aerodynamic performance it’s important that both the bike and the rider are as aerodynamically efficient as possible.
At Bianchi, while we feed the learnings from research and development across all ranges into new models, the Aria’s advanced aerodynamic design has been heavily inspired by our extensive wind-tunnel testing and cooperation with Bianchi pro riders.
For the bike, full aerodynamic performance means the shape of the tubes’ profiles and their structural combination to cheat the wind’s resistance, resulting in the lowest drag possible.
For the rider, full aerodynamic performance means creating a position that allows for the least air resistance – this can only be achieved with a frame and fork geometry that allows for an advanced tuck position, and an ideal racing geometry.
Aero frame plus aero rider position equals full aero.
As well as an effective high performance road machine, the Bianchi Aria shows its fast-pace versatility when it comes to triathlon. Aria’s aggressive geometry lends itself perfectly to the high-speed race performance demanded in tri events.
Getting the required horizontal-back aerodynamic tuck position for fast tri bike leg is easy to achieve with Aria’s triathlon configuration. Just clip-on aero bars, set the bars’ stack height if required and adjust saddle height and angle, and Aria instantly becomes triathlon ready.
Road or tri, the Aria is ready to help you deliver your best.
Sospensioni Öhlins da Xc: dettagli, pesi, prezzi e prime sensazioni
Nuove sospensioni Öhlins da Xc: il marchio svedese, eccellenza della tradizione motoristica, spinge forte anche sul mondo Mtb racing, presentando degli ammortizzatori e delle forcelle specifiche per il cross country e le marathon, sfruttando l’esperienza e le tecnologie utilizzate sui prodotti Enduro e DH.
Avevamo già visto le sospensioni Öhlins da Xc sulle bici del Team BMC Mtb Racing, che ha contribuito allo sviluppo nella fase finale dei test, ma solo ora possiamo svelarvi i dettagli tecnici, i pesi e i prezzi.
AMMORTIZZATORI TXC AIR
La nuova gamma delle sospensioni Öhlins da Xc include due ammortizzatori, il TXC1Air e il TXC2Air.Il primo è più essenziale, leggero e minimale, studiato per le full da Xc con travel ridotto, presenta meno regolazioni e soltanto il comando remoto.
Il secondo è studiato per le full più moderne, è leggermente più pesante (parliamo di pochi grammi), e si può scegliere con comando remoto o manuale. Quest’ultimo include anche la regolazione delle basse velocità di compressione oltre a quella del rebound, presente su tutti i modelli.
Il funzionamento interno si ispira a quello del TTX da trail/enduro, ma si basa su una regolazione della compressione a tre posizioni (Open, Pedal e Lockout), sia sui modelli remote che su quelli manuali.
Le curve di compressione delle tre modalità sono studiate con criterio per ottenere le migliori prestazioni in tutte le situazioni di gara.
A proposito di personalizzazioni, queste sono ampie e facilitate grazie agli spessori interni che permettono di variare sia la progressività (agendo sul volume dell’aria nella camera positiva), sia l’escursione.Di serie vengono forniti infatti degli spessori specifici per entrambe le funzioni.
Il setup dell’ammortizzatore è studiato e regolato per le competizioni, ma si può comunque agire sulla parte idraulica (nei centri autorizzati Öhlins) per effettuare un tuning più profondo.I nuovi ammortizzatori Öhlins da Xc, quindi, sono un concentrato di tecnologia ed esperienza che mette una certa curiosità.
FORCELLE RXC34 M.1
La nuova gamma di sospensioni Öhlins da Xc include anche due forcella, la RXC34 m.1 Air e la RXC34 m.1 Carbon Air.
Come è facile intuire, entrambe hanno degli steli da 34 mm e si differenziano per il materiale della testa e del tubo. La versione in carbonio, più leggera, pregiata e costosa, è destinata agli agonisti più esigenti, ma per quanto riguarda il funzionamento è praticamente identica all’altra.
Le parti interne della parte aria e di quella idraulica sono state ridisegnate da zero e ottimizzate per l’utilizzo Xc/Marathon.La pressione dell’olio è bilanciata da un bladder e in fase di sviluppo è stata prestata molta attenzione alla scorrevolezza di tutte le parti.Il pistone e la pila di lamelle sono studiati e settati di serie per le competizioni.
Anche qui troviamo le tre regolazioni dell’idraulica (Open, Pedal e Lockout), che permettono a forcella e ammortizzatore di lavorare in simbiosi.
Le forcelle RXC34 m.1 sono disponibili sia con comando manuale che con il remoto. Quest’ultima versione include solo la regolazione esterna del rebound (16 click), mentre quella manuale è munita anche di un registro delle basse velocità di compressione (10 click).
La parte aria ha un’ampia camera negativa, che migliora la sensibilità ai piccoli impatti, ma è possibile ridurre il suo volume inserendo degli spacers (solo nei centri autorizzati).È possibile anche lavorare sulla progressività, inserendo degli spacers nella camera positiva (fino a 5) e in questo caso l’operazione si può fare anche da soli.
Un dettaglio interessante riguarda la retrocompatibilità con il modello da trail di Öhlins, infatti sia la parte aria che il pistone idraulico si possono montare sulla RXF34, che di fatto condivide anche lo chassis con la RXC34 in alluminio.
Nel complesso, le nuove forcelle Öhlins da Xc sono davvero interessanti e confermano l’enorme potenziale del marchio: aspettavamo questi prodotti da anni e finalmente sono arrivati.
COMANDO REMOTO
Insieme alle nuove sospensioni da Xc, Öhlins ha presentato anche un comando remoto ad hoc, studiato per azionare contemporaneamente forcella e ammortizzatore.Non solo, visto che ormai il reggisella telescopico è un must sulle bici da Xc, Öhlins dà anche la possibilità di montare sullo stesso comando una levetta che facilita questa operazione.
Nonostante ciò, le sospensioni Öhlins da Xc funzionano anche con i comandi remoti di altre aziende, come quelli di casa DT Swiss, lo Scott TwinLoc e lo SquidLock di Orbea.
PRIMISSIME SENSAZIONI
Ho avuto modo di provare le nuove sospensioni Öhlins da Xc sulla BMC Fourstroke del team ufficiale, durante un test Pirelli effettuato in Sicilia qualche settimana fa.Ma va fatta una premessa: i tecnici dell’azienda svedese Mi hanno riferito che forcella e ammortizzatori montati sulla bici a me fornita non erano in versione definitiva, né sappiamo se fossero di serie o avessero dei tuning specifici al loro interno.
L’unica cosa certa è che il meccanico del team le ha impostate con le stesse pressioni che utilizza Juri Zanotti, che pesa all’incirca quanto me (63-64 kg). Guardando la tabella delle pressioni, presuppongo che la forcella fosse intorno ai 70 psi.
Dopo aver fatto queste doverose promesse, posso dirvi che le prime sensazioni sono state super positive: ho girato per due ore su un tracciato Xc molto vario, con tratti discretamente impegnativi percorsi anche ad alta velocità e le sospensioni Mi hanno messo subito a mio agio.
In particolar modo Mi ha stupito positivamente l’ammortizzatore, che offre tanta stabilità nella posizione intermedia, mentre da tutto aperto è super sensibile, ma anche molto progressivo. Guardando l’o-ring a fine giro ho notato di aver sfruttato quasi tutta l’escursione, ma sempre col massimo controllo.
Sensazioni simili anche sulla forcella, che offre tanto supporto a metà corsa e permette di “galleggiare” con l’anteriore. È molto sensibile, ma non si mangia il travel: questo è un dettaglio fondamentale e non scontato su una forcella da Xc.
Quindi, anche se queste sensazioni vanno prese con le pinze, perché le sospensioni erano dei prototipi (sebbene quasi definitivi), posso dire che il primo contatto è stato piacevole.Ma per saperne di più continuate a seguirci, perché a breve proveremo i prodotti definitivi sulle nostre bici e sui nostri sentieri di riferimento.
Per maggiori informazioni visitare il sito Ohlins.com oppure contattare Andreani Group, distributore Öhlins per l’Italia.
Qui sotto, il test della RXF34 m.2 da trail riding:
Ve la ricordate la forcella Öhlins RXF 34 m.2? Quella che vi abbiamo presentato il 9 marzo? (Qui trovate l’articolo di presentazione).Da allora abbiamo avuto modo di provarla nelle situazioni più diverse tra loro, terra, roccia, bagnato, asciutto, insomma siamo riusciti a capire di che pasta è fatta!Nell’articolo seguente troverete dettagli tecnici, peso, prezzo e […]