Bianchi Oltre XR4 CV Disc

Bianchi extend the use of their Countervail carbon technology into their aero road range with the 2020 Oltre XR4 CV. Rather than relying on elastomer dampers and pivot points for vibration reduction Countervail blends a unique carbon fibre layup with viscoelastic resin in the tubes themselves, making the entire tube a shock absorber but without affecting power transfer.

The Oltre is also extremely aerodynamic, featuring Bianchi's latest Metron 5D ACR aero handlebar; an integrated bar and stem which features fully enclosed cable routing through the bar and stem - for both the hydraulic brake hoses and the gear cables.

This build features Shimano's ultra-reliable and precise Ultegra Di2 shifting, together with some of our favourite aero "do everything" wheels, the Roval CLX 64. The total package combines to make a bike that successfully blends aero efficiency with long-ride comfort, a tricky combo to pull off.

photos by Bobby Whittaker