Disc brakes and electronic shifting groups have become two of the most coveted components on high-performance bicycles. This trend has not only revolutionized the road bike segment, but has also had an impact on the world of mountain biking, where precise shifting and braking safety are essential in demanding terrains.
The main road bike brands have adapted their flagship models to include disc brakes and electronic drivetrains, offering greater efficiency and control to cyclists. Wilier has gone a step further with the Wilier Zero SLR 2020, a competition bike designed exclusively for these components. Its frame does not allow for mounting caliper brakes or mechanical shifters, ensuring total cable integration and optimizing aerodynamics.
The internal cable routing system is not exclusive to Wilier. Models like the BMC Roadmachine 01 ONE or the Specialized Venge S-Works Disc have already implemented similar solutions, achieving greater aesthetic cleanliness and aerodynamics. However, the Zero SLR introduces a new feature in its internal structure, rounded, which guides the cables more efficiently without compromising steering.
This technological evolution in road bikes has also spread to the mountain bike sector. More and more MTB brands are incorporating electronic shifting and high-performance disc brakes to improve precision on technical descents and demanding climbs. Models equipped with Shimano Ultegra Di2 or SRAM RED eTAP are making a difference both on the road and in the mountains, allowing cyclists to enjoy a more advanced and efficient experience on any type of terrain.
Versatile, but super light
The Italian brand boasts that this Wilier Zero SLR bicycle stands out for its versatile frame geometry, which allows it to deliver great performance in different carrera situations and riding needs. Its design inherits some features from aero-type bikes. Not only in terms of the integration of all the cabling, but also in details such as the perfect integration of the seatpost into the frame. It also shares similarities with endurance bikes regarding control and riding stability, as well as the ability to move the seatpost 15 millimeters to achieve a more relaxed and comfortable riding position. But without a doubt, the Wilier Zero SLR has the soul of a climber. Its frame is truly lightweight, weighing no less than 780 grams for size 54/M. It is true that it is not the lightest bike from Wilier (the Zero 6 frame weighs 680 grams), but it is lighter than other top-of-the-line bikes, such as the Specialized Venge S-Works Disc (960 grams).
Even faster wheel releases
Both on the front and rear axle, the Wilier Zero SLR comes equipped with the new 12mm Mavic Speed Release quick-release system, which allows you to remove the wheel without completely taking out the axle. You simply need to loosen it. This system has a double advantage: on one hand, the extreme speed and ease of removing and installing the wheel. On the other, once the correct torque is reached, no more force can be applied to the lever. This prevents the thread from being damaged by overtightening the axle. According to Wilier, the Zero SLR's tire clearance allows mounting tires up to 28 mm. However, this could be a limitation given the new trend of using increasingly wider rims even on aero-type bikes. As a reference, the Specialized Venge allows tire widths of 32 mm.
A versatile high-end machine
In short, the Wilier Zero SLR is a versatile bicycle designed to meet the demands of cyclists looking for a high-end, versatile machine, with a clean design, equipped with the latest technology but predominantly a climber. It is possibly the first of many other road bikes that will follow the same path: lightweight, with a touch of aero, equipped with disc brakes and fully integrated. On the plus side: its design, smooth ride, stiffness, and the integration of all wired elements inside the frame. On the downside: the limitation of not being able to mount a mechanical groupset or tires wider than 28 mm.
Tuvalum Team
