High-end track racing bike: The new Colnago T1Rs

After an absence of several years, the traditional Italian brand Colnago is returning to the velodrome with a new high-end track bike. According to the manufacturer, the T1Rs is the most aerodynamic bike Colnago has ever developed. The official launch took place on 31 October in London, where the bike made its racing debut. According to the manufacturer, the new model utilises the experience gained with the TT1 time trial bike and the Y1Rs road racing bike.

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For top speeds on the track: the Colnago T1Rs

The Colnago T1Rs has been specially developed for high and top speeds on the track. To achieve this, the engineers sought the best possible combination of aerodynamics and the high torsional rigidity required for track racing bikes in particular. The frame utilises so-called NACA profiles, which are derived from aircraft wings. Narrow hubs (65 millimetres at the front, 100 millimetres at the rear) and a so-called double-crown fork further reduce the frontal area. Curved chainstays are intended to smooth the airflow and cause less turbulence in the drive area. Other aerodynamic elements include particularly narrow, aerodynamically shaped dropouts and a fully integrated stem.

Improved rigidity

The double crown fork of the Colnago T1R is also designed to improve the stiffness of the front of the frame, while reinforced chainstays, seat stays and dropouts are intended to withstand the explosive acceleration of track cyclists without any loss of performance. The oversized asymmetrical bottom bracket, the reinforced seat tube and the compact rear triangle with a narrow 100 millimetre hub serve the same purpose. The customised aerodynamic seatpost with internal ribbed structure combines airflow efficiency with maximum stiffness.

Various setups

The Colnago T1Rs can be configured in two different setups, depending on the type of race. The sprint/endurance configuration offers maximum adjustability and precise handling thanks to compatibility with standard 31.8 millimetre handlebars. The frame-fork-stem clamping system is secured with two mounting bolts and is designed to improve both bending and torsional stiffness. The stem is available in three lengths - 125 millimetres, 150 millimetres and 175 millimetres, all with a 6.5 degree angle - and can be fine-tuned with up to four spacers.

The time trial/track configuration features a monocoque carbon stem and base handlebar unit. The handlebar is 380 millimetres wide, with a grip position 17 millimetres below the frame reference and a base position that offers 93 millimetres of reach and 25 millimetres of stack relative to the frame. Modular aero extensions allow for multiple hand positions, while an integrated mount can accommodate bike computers or race transponders.

Geometry data

The Colnago T1Rs is available in three sizes: S, M and L. Chasers benefit from a low stack height and an aerodynamic position, while endurance athletes and sprinters should benefit from an extended reach and exceptional stiffness at the front - even with long stems. The stack values range from 468 millimetres (size S) to 494 millimetres (M) and 520 millimetres (L), while the reach values vary from 417 millimetres (S) to 430 millimetres (M) and 461 millimetres (L).

The T1Rs is only available as a frame set in the TL1X paint finish at a recommended retail price in Europe of 6500 euros. The frame set includes frame, fork, seat post, seat clamp and small parts. Available separately are the endurance/sprint kit with spacers and stem for 250 euros (plus VAT) and the pursuit kit, consisting of basic handlebars (320 euros plus VAT) and adjustable attachment kit (270 euros plus VAT).

The most important information about the Colnago T1Rs

• Frame materialCarbon with track-specific layup
• Front hub width65 millimetres with 2 screws
• Rear hub width100 millimetres with 2 screws
• Bottom bracketT47 Asymmetrical
• Tyre clearanceup to 28 millimetres
• Maximum chainring size: 72 teeth
• Available sizesS, M, L
• Price frameset6500 Euro
• Price endurance/sprint kit250 Euro (plus VAT)
• Price tracking kitBasic handlebars 320 euros, attachment kit 270 euros (plus VAT in each case)