Seven machines, seven personalities from design icons to budget wonders.We pulled shots, steamed milk, and sipped our way through the test field: Which espresso machine for your home actually makes life better? And why is the espresso machine industry facing a real revolution? Read our independent and brutally honest espresso machine comparison test to find out.Table of Contents1. How We Tested our Espresso Machines2. Tech Talk Without the Headache: What Really Matters3. The Line-Up in Our Espresso Machine Test: From No-Fuss to Full-On Perfectionist4. What Matters in Daily Life With Your Espresso Machine? You Decide.5. Which Espresso Machine Fits Which Type?6. Quantum Leaps and Letdowns Tops & Flops in Our Espresso Machine Test7. Espresso Machine Test 2025: Best in Test & Top Picks8. Where (Not) to Buy Your Next Espresso Machine8.1 More than just a shop: Caff Pantano roaster, repairer, and barista central8.2 Stoll Espresso full service, full crema9. ConclusionBig names, bold claims, and built-in connectivity but do they really deliver? Lets be honest, the cult status of a product and the marketing buzz from brands and influencers influence our buying decisions more than wed like to admit. When it comes to espresso machines, the rule of thumb seems clear style lovers go for La Marzocco. A Sanremo in the showroom? That can only mean business is booming. And app control? Thats a must-have, right? Well not so fast. In our DOWNTOWN espresso machine test, we looked beyond the shiny side panels. Big names, fancy features, steep prices? We couldnt care less. We wanted to know: What can you actually feel as a casual home barista? Whats a real benefit and whats just hype? And which new technology marks a true breakthrough that could revolutionize the way we brew espresso at home?Our goal is to give you honest, hands-on, and independent advice so you can confidently choose the best espresso machine for your home. One that doesnt just make you happy on the day you buy it, but every single morning after. Like a perfectly tuned bike that just glides.Whether youre obsessed with adjusting temperature, flow, and pressure, or just want to press a button and sip a perfect espresso this test is for you. Its for anyone who loves the smell of freshly ground coffee, who cares about design, quality, and daily usability. Whether youre an espresso geek or a curious first-timer, well help you find the best espresso machine for your home one that fits the way you like your coffee.Oh, and just because you buy a great machine doesnt mean youll get great espresso right away. In fact, many people end up drinking the worst coffee of their lives after splashing out a small fortune on a new machine. Why? Because a good espresso machine doesnt guarantee good espresso. More on that in our article How to Espresso A Barista Course, Tried and Tested.How We Tested the Espresso Machines in Our ReviewTo keep things fair, we ran the same routine on all machines from the 300 entry-level model to the 6,000 tech marvel. Every machine was put through its paces in our office for several weeks. A half-dozen team members pulled shots, frothed milk, cleaned, swore, and gave honest feedback. All in the name of helping you find the best espresso machine for your home.We didnt score taste were not certified coffeologists or sensory experts. We tested for the real world: How intuitive is the machine? How quickly is it ready to brew?What kind of tech does it use and do those features actually make a difference in daily life?Oh, and lets not forget the emotional side: A beautiful machine that sparks joy just sitting there is already doing something right.To make sure we actually know what were talking about, our team spent the past 12 months diving deep into the world of coffee in close exchange with experts from the specialty scene and as part of our Coffee Special series. Youll find everything we learned, from essential basics to pro tips on how to get the most out of your machine, in our article on the barista training at Rotbart Kaffee.This article is part of our Coffee Special, full of product tests, exciting insights and some valuable new perspectives on coffee. Curious? Then click here!And the winner is the grinder!? Well, not in our espresso machine comparison test. But if you want to know why a quality grinder matters even more than the espresso machine itself, check out our full barista story.Tech Talk Without the Headache: What Really MattersThe internet is packed with deep-dive technical explanations for every seal and nozzle. Were keeping it simple: If youve got a basic grasp of the key terms, youre already ahead. No nerd talk, no physics degree just clear, simple guidance for better coffee.Dual boiler, thermoblock, PID, flow profiling sounds complex at first, but its easier than it seems. In the table below, we explain the technologies that are most important for understanding espresso machines. Short, sharp, and with real-world relevance.But first, a few words on those initially confusing terms: single circuit, dual circuit, single boiler, and dual boiler.A single circuit machine heats the water for espresso and steam in the same loop compact, affordable, but with waiting times between pulling a shot and steaming milk.A dual circuit separates those paths: you can brew espresso and steam milk at the same time ideal for cappuccino fans.Careful this part requires a bit of a mental stretch: A dual circuit system isnt the same as the dual boiler principle (like in the Bezzera DUO DE or the La Marzocco Linea Micra). These are espresso machines with two separate boilers and therefore two separate water circuits for steam/hot water and espresso.However, not every dual circuit is a dual boiler. Some machines can brew espresso and steam milk at the same time which makes them dual circuit systems but they only have one boiler (= single boiler). Traditionally, these machines heat the brewing water via a heat exchanger that runs through the steam boiler. The boiler is permanently under steam and hot water pressure, while the water for your shot gets indirectly heated as it flows through.This setup saves both space and energy but calls for a bit of finesse after longer idle times, the water in the heat exchanger can overheat, so flushing a bit before pulling a shot helps maintain the right brew temperature and ensures consistently great results.Terms What They Mean in PracticeSingle circuit: A machine with just one heating circuit. In practice: espresso or milk but not both at the same time, and with some waiting in between.Dual circuit: Two separate paths for brewing and steam water, with one heater and usually a heat exchanger. This lets you pull a shot and steam milk back-to-back.Dual boiler: Two independent boilers, each with its own heating system one dedicated to espresso, the other to steam. The major advantage: you can brew and steam at the same time, without needing to readjust temperatures between the two.Thermoblock: An on-demand heating system that heats water only when needed. Saves time and energy ideal if you dont want to wait in the morning.Thick film heater: A more advanced type of thermoblock: ultra-fast, precise, and energy-efficient.Rotary pump: A quiet, powerful pump like those used in cafs. Provides consistent pressure and smooth operation.PID: An electronic temperature controller that minimises fluctuations. In other words: more consistent shots, less guesswork.Flow profiling: You control exactly how much water flows through during extraction, letting you fine-tune the flavor to your taste.Pressure profiling: You control how much pressure is applied during brewing. Lets you highlight or soften specific flavor notes.Volumetrics: Automatic water volume control: the machine stops by itself when the cup is full. Great for consistent results.Pre-infusion: A short pre-wetting of the puck (the compressed coffee in the portafilter). Especially helpful with fine grinds, it improves saturation before full 9-bar pressure builds up reducing channeling and delivering better espresso.The Line-Up in Our Espresso Machine Review: From No-Fuss to Full-On PerfectionistIn our quest to find the best espresso machine for your home, we assembled a diverse lineup, from minimalist espresso purists to smart, feature-packed all-rounders.From the minimalist espresso purist to the high-tech multitasker we tested them all. With its clean Bauhaus aesthetic and lightning-fast heat-up time, the ZURIGA E2-S quickly became a newsroom favorite. The LIGRE youn, on the other hand, offers futuristic elegance for design lovers. The Bezzera DUO DE hits the sweet spot classic looks meet smart tech proving that retro charm and digital control arent mutually exclusive.On the geekier end: the Sanremo YOU. Here, everything is adjustable, everything is possible maybe even a little too much for everyday life. The La Marzocco Linea Micra brings professional tech to the home kitchen in a compact form. The DeLonghi Dedica DUO proves that even coffee newbies can pull a decent shot without breaking the bank. And for the real die-hards, theres the Olympia Express Mina a purely mechanical lever machine for purists who see espresso as a form of Zen training.Not sure which espresso machine in our test best suits your home setup? Keep reading you just might find your match.Bezzera DUO DEPrice: 2,925 (RRP)System Setup: Double circuit, dual boilerClick here for the review!DeLonghi Dedica Arte EC890.MPrice: 299.90System Setup: Double circuit, single boiler & thermoblockClick here for the review!La Marzocco Linea MicraPrice: from 3,332System Setup: Dual boiler with rotary pumpClick here for the review!LIGRE younPrice: from 3,980System Setup: Double circuit, thermoblock & single boilerClick here for the review!Olympia Express MinaPrice: 999System Setup: lever mechanismClick here for the review!Sanremo YOUPrice: 5,800 (RRP)System Setup: Dual boiler with PID & rotary pumpClick here for the review!ZURIGA E2-S (Generation 2)Price: 1,890System Setup: Single circuit, thick film heater, no boilerClick here for the review!Barista MaximusPrice: three espressi per hour, heartthrob alert incl.System Setup: Single body, dual stress, permanent brew modeWhat Matters in Daily Life With Your Espresso Machine? You Decide.Some folks are all about latte art and dialing in every parameter. Others just want a machine that works, looks great, and fits seamlessly into daily life. Different machines offer different approaches to brewing and frothing from fully automatic at the press of a button to manual paddle control or even completely mechanical for the full ritual. Its your call:Thanks to volumetrics: press a button and get a programmed amount of coffeeor would you rather control the shot manually?Do you really want to rely on an app to unlock the full feature set?Big and bold or minimalist and compact?2-in-1: An espresso machine for home and travel?With a water tank and optional direct water connection?Control pressure and water flow with a paddle or just sit back and watch?Automatic milk frotheror hands-on barista vibes?Which Espresso Machine Fits Which Coffee Lover Type?Plug & play fans: ZURIGA E2-S, DeLonghi Dedica Duo, LIGRE younDesign lovers: LIGRE youn, La Marzocco Linea Micra, ZURIGA E2-SPurists: Olympia Express Mina, ZURIGA E2-SAmbitious home baristas: Sanremo YOU, Bezzera DUO DEImpromptu drinkers: LIGRE youn, ZURIGA E2-S, DeLonghi Dedica DuoQuantum Leaps or Letdowns Tops & Flops in Our Espresso Machine TestThe biggest surprise in our test doesnt sound all that exciting at first: Thermoblock rules! But this modern heating system and its upgraded version, the thick-film heater genuinely blew us away. Still relatively new, this tech has the potential to revolutionize your daily espresso routine. Honestly, we dont want to make coffee at home without it anymore. A thermoblock only heats the exact amount of water you need, making waiting a thing of the past. Waiting under two minutes for your first cup perfect for spontaneous cappuccino cravings or a quick morning espresso. Youll find this future-ready tech in the DeLonghi Dedica Duo, the LIGRE youn, and in the form of a thick-film heater in the ZURIGA E2-S.For us, its crystal clear: this is a must-have for your home setup!TopsTop tech with real-world benefits: The ZURIGA E2-S features a thick-film heater combined with precise temperature control delivering both speed and consistency.Digital Feedback for the perfect grind: The semi-automatic assistant in the LIGRE youn measures the espressos flow time and gives smart, on-screen advice for dialing in your grinder. One of a kind in our espresso machine test.Switch on, job done! Machines with built-in volumetrics automatically stop the shot once the programmed amount of water hits the cup. Found in these espresso machines from our test: Sanremo YOU, LIGRE youn, DeLonghi Dedica Duo, Bezzera DUO DE.For some, overload for others, pure bliss:The Sanremo YOU offers a thousand and one ways to tweak every detail of your espresso shot.FlopsCheap grips: surprising, especially on a design icon like the La Marzocco Linea but the Micras plastic handles feel noticeably cheap, even if the material itself is technically high quality. The clearly visible and tangible seam on the paddle is distracting every time you pull a shot.What we found: the UX design of many machines with displays just isnt where it needs to be yet. Compared to product categories like smartwatches or EVs, the menus and navigation often feel clunky, unintuitive, and underdeveloped. Bezzera and Sanremo in particular still have room for improvement here.A real drawback on the Bezzera DUO DE:The drip tray. Water from backflushing quickly turns brown and stays visible due to the trays open, light-colored design. Not exactly a pretty sight. A darker or covered tray wouldve easily made for a more elegant solution.Annoying quirk on the DeLonghi Dedica:with its single tiny spout, the double-walled portafilter limits your bean choices especially if youre grinding fresh. Finer grinds tend to clog it easily. If you prefer lighter roasts, youll need to invest in a compatible third-party portafilter.Espresso Machine Test 2025: Best in Test & Top PicksThree months in pursuit of the perfect machine: we ground, we steamed, we sipped all in search of that fine line between good and godly. The result? Countless espressos, a moderate caffeine buzz, and two machines that truly won us over.Best in Test: LIGRE younHigh-End Meets Ease of Use: Ultra-fast heat-up time, intuitive operation, smart automation all wrapped in a design piece worthy of a gallery.Check out the full review of the LIGRE youn here.Best Buy: ZURIGA E2-SSwiss-Style Minimalism: Fast, quiet, premium. No display, no drama just espresso at the push of a button and silky milk foam within seconds. If youre looking for one of the best espresso machines for your home, this might be the one.Check out the full review of the ZURIGA E2-S here.Where (Not) to Buy Your Next Espresso MachineYou dont buy an espresso machine like you buy socks in a three-pack. And when it comes to quality beans, the mass-market isnt your friend either. Thats why we recommend skipping the big anonymous platforms and heading to specialized coffee shops instead. There, youll find handpicked machines, essential accessories, honest advice and a true passion for coffee. Here are a few of our favorite spots, both online and off.More than just a shop: Caff Pantano roaster, repairer, and barista centralIf youre after more than a simple purchase, Caff Pantano is your place. Barista master and coffeologist Marcello personally selects and roasts the estate coffees in-house. Alongside that, youll find carefully chosen machines and grinders from Italian brands like La Marzocco, Sanremo, and Victoria Arduino.Step into their showroom and youll get to test the machines, get real advice, and if needed leasing options, setup support, and reliable servicing or repairs. Bottom line? They sell with a conscience and with an in-house workshop.Bonus: The on-site Accademia offers training sessions and courses, from barista basics to full-on latte art. And if youre more into drinking coffee than making it, you can book their mobile espresso bar for events and catering. Caff Pantano shows that coffee is much more than just the machine.Stoll Espresso full service, full cremaFast, friendly, and truly knowledgeable Stoll Espresso is one of those rare shops where everything just works. Based in Lindau, this specialist retailer offers a wide range of gear, from beginner-friendly models to high-end machines. Plus grinders, accessories, and beans from small roasters in Italy and Switzerland.Best of all? The service doesnt end at checkout. Stoll run their own expert workshop, repair machines even if you didnt buy them there, and get this they actually pick up the phone! No endless queues, no chatbots. Just real help from people who know their stuff.In short: If you love espresso, youll feel right at home with Stoll.ConclusionsAt the end of the day, this big espresso machine comparison test isnt about whos got the biggest boiler or the priciest housing its about the emotions these machines bring to your daily life. Whether youre into Zen, tech tinkering, sleek design, or pure pragmatism theres a machine out there thats made for you. The perfect espresso machine? Theres no such thing. But the best espresso machine for your home? Absolutely. And if you find yourself smiling before that very first sip in the morning youve found it.All machines reviewed: Bezzera DUO DE | DeLonghi Dedica Duo EC 890.M | La Marzocco Linea Micra | LIGRE youn | Olympia Express Mina | Sanremo YOU | ZURIGA E2-SDer Beitrag 7 Espresso Machines in Review What Is the Best Espresso Machine for Your Home? erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

Innovation has become a word the bike industry likes to repeat, not necessarily practice.Standardised platforms, fear-driven decisions, and industry echo chambers have replaced real conviction.As products converge, brands lose authorship, relevance, and pricing power.True innovation is not about new specs, but about the courage to take responsibility for difference. This article is part of the Brixen Bike Papers a 41 Publishing initiative from our 2025 Think Tank in Brixen, created with the goal of building a better bike world.A series of essays diving into the uncomfortable truths, hidden opportunities, and real changes our industry needs. Click here for the overview of all released stories.The Brixen World Bike Papers What Really Defines Innovation in Cycling Product, Culture, or Storytelling?1. The Word We Abuse2. The Lego Box Era3. The Racification Trap4. Why Innovation Became Risky5. Innovation Theater and the Industry Echo Chamber6. The Western Paralysis7. The Real Cost of Playing Safe8. What Actually Creates Brand Value9. Innovation as Culture, Not Department10. The Relevance Test11. What Needs To Change1. The Word We AbuseInnovation has become the most repeated and least examined word in the bicycle industry.It appears everywhere: press releases, keynotes, launch decks, trade show slogans. It is invoked so frequently that it has lost all friction. Innovation is no longer a claim that demands proof. Its a default assumption, a checkbox, a label applied before the work is done.And yet, when you step back and observe the market without brand bias or emotional attachment, the contradiction is obvious. If innovation were truly happening at the scale we claim, products would not look, ride, and feel so fundamentally similar. Entire categories would not be visually interchangeable. Conversations would not collapse so quickly into price, discounts, and spec comparisons.What we call innovation today is often cosmetic refinement. A marginal geometry tweak sold as a breakthrough. A few additional Newton-meters positioned as a revolution. We have reduced progress to surface-level change and trained ourselves to celebrate motion rather than direction.The industry is not short on technical competence. Its short on ambition that extends beyond the safe, the explainable, and the immediately sellable. 2. The Lego Box EraThe current product landscape didnt emerge by accident. Its the logical outcome of how bicycles are conceived, developed, approved and also sold inside modern organisations.Most brands operate within the same modular system. Carbon molds sourced from the same factories. Different platforms built around the same suspension principles. Drivetrains, motors, batteries, brakes, tyres selected from a finite catalogue of suppliers. Development increasingly resembles configuration rather than creation.This is the Lego Box Era.Open the box. Choose the frame platform. Select components from approved partners. Assemble within known parameters. Apply branding. Prepare launch assets.Theres nothing inherently wrong with modularity. It brings efficiency, reliability, and scalability. The problem begins when modularity replaces authorship. When brands stop designing systems and start curating parts. When identity is reduced to specification rather than actual differentiation.In this environment, differentiation becomes fragile. It lives in details that are invisible to most riders and meaningless outside expert circles. Bikes feel interchangeable because, at a structural level, they are. And no amount of storytelling can fully disguise that reality.3. The Racification TrapMany categories in cycling didnt become narrow because the market demanded it. They became narrow because the industry rewrote their story. What started as open, playful, and exploratory experiences was gradually reframed through a single, dominant lens: competition.Mountain biking did not begin as a race discipline. It emerged from curiosity, from riding trails without rules, from experimentation, from the simple desire to go further and have fun. Gravel followed a similar path. It was not born to be ranked, standardised, or optimised. It was a reaction against rigidity, a space between road and mountain, between structure and freedom.Over time, however, the industry racified everything.Racing became the primary mechanism of validation. Performance turned into the universal language of legitimacy. If a category wanted to be taken seriously, it had to prove itself through results, watts, weight, and podiums. What could not be measured was slowly marginalised. What couldnt be raced was treated as secondary.This shift had consequences far beyond competition itself. Once racing becomes the reference point, product development follows. Bikes are designed around extremes rather than realities. Communication prioritises speed, aggression, and optimisation. Media coverage amplifies the fastest, lightest, most radical expressions, even when they represent a tiny fraction of actual riders.Numbers replace stories. Results replace meaning. Sensationalism replaces real rider needs.In that environment, innovation stops asking fundamental questions. It no longer asks why people ride, what they feel, or how cycling fits into their lives. It asks how much lighter, how much faster, how much more powerful. Progress is defined vertically, not horizontally.The tragedy is not that racing exists. Racing has always had its place. The problem is that racing has been allowed to define everything else. Entire categories are compressed into a single narrative, stripping them of diversity, accessibility, and emotional depth.The limits of this logic become especially visible in the e-bike segment.Here, racing has virtually no cultural influence. Performance benchmarks, race results, and competitive validation do not meaningfully shape demand. Actually its close to 0. Its even crazier: the e-bike segment is probably the only segment that was inspired by the young, the cool or core riders. It started and grew because average Joes and Joannas understood its benefits. The fun, the exercise they understood that their life quality would greatly benefit from buying an ebike.And yet, the industry continues to apply the same narrative reflex.More power. More torque. Faster acceleration. Lighter numbers. We play games and pretend that we as a bike industry are not able to change the rules. But we are the ones who can change them! We just neglect our power and impact and our responsibility.The result is confusion rather than clarity. E-bikes are used in radically different ways, by radically different people, in radically different contexts. When a single performance-driven story is imposed on such diversity, it fails to resonate.This doesnt weaken the argument. It exposes it.This doesnt invalidate the argument. It strengthens it.When racing can no longer provide meaning, the absence of alternative narratives becomes painfully obvious. The problem is not that racing does not apply everywhere. The problem is that the industry has not learned how to speak when racing does not apply at all.This isnt evolution.Its reduction.4. Why Innovation Became RiskyTo understand why this condition persists, we need to look beyond products and into organisational behaviour.In most companies today, real innovation carries asymmetrical risk. If it fails, the consequences are personal. Missed targets, internal exposure, loss of trust, stalled careers. If it succeeds, the reward is often abstract and collective. The system absorbs the credit.But this imbalance is not only psychological. Its structural.Most bicycle brands operate with relatively small development teams when compared to their key suppliers. Companies like SRAM, Shimano, Bosch, or major suspension manufacturers can absorb years of iteration, testing, and failure. For them, imperfection is part of the process.For brands, its not.Developing something truly new means accepting that it may not work perfectly at launch. That it will require fixes, explanations, and patience from the market. For organisations with limited engineering depth and tight launch calendars, that risk feels disproportionate.So the logic becomes obvious. Its safer to rely on suppliers presumed to have done their work properly. Its safer to integrate than to invent. Its safer to assemble than to author.This doesnt eliminate risk. It displaces it.And in doing so, brands slowly outsource not just development, but responsibility, differentiation, and ultimately, identity.Under these conditions, people do not optimize for relevance or originality. They optimise for survival.Decision-making becomes defensive. Incremental change is favoured because it is explainable. Familiar formats are repeated because they are easier to justify to boards, finance departments, and sales teams. Innovation becomes something that must be proven before it is attempted, benchmarked against competitors who are themselves not innovating.This creates a paradox. The more uncertainty the market shows, the less uncertainty organisations are willing to tolerate internally. Creativity is filtered out not because it lacks merit, but because it lacks precedent.At the same time, this doesnt mean organisations resist change. Quite the opposite. There is often intense pressure to launch something new every season. Minor design changes are welcomed. Visual updates are rewarded. Incremental tweaks are celebrated as progress.What is resisted is not change, but uncertainty.Most development teams inside bike brands are not structured to create truly new ideas. They are focused on industrialisation, cost control, timelines, and mass-production reliability. Innovation, when it exists, is treated as a side task layered on top of already stretched teams, rather than as a protected core function.Under these conditions, waiting an extra year to do something fundamentally different feels irresponsible. Shipping something familiar feels safe. The system incentivises motion, not transformation.Innovation isnt rejected.Its domesticated.5. Innovation Theater and the Industry Echo ChamberExternal industry structures reinforce this behaviour.Trade shows reward visibility, not vision. Media cycles reward novelty, not consequence. Product awards often celebrate execution within existing templates rather than questioning those templates. Launch calendars dictate rhythm regardless of whether the idea is mature, necessary, or meaningful.The result is innovation theatre. A continuous performance of progress that looks dynamic but changes very little.Brands watch each other closely. They reference the same benchmarks, quote the same trends, attend the same panels, read the same reports. Consensus becomes safety, and safety becomes stagnation.The system does not punish sameness. It punishes deviation. Standing out carries risk. Blending in feels professional.Ideas that fall outside the accepted narrative are not evaluated on their potential, but on their immediate legibility. Concepts like 32-inch wheels are not rejected because they are proven wrong, but because they do not fit existing frameworks. They are uncomfortable, hard to benchmark, and difficult to explain within current launch cycles and media formats.So they are ignored, postponed, or quietly dismissed, while safer variations of the same ideas continue to circulate. Not because they are better, but because they are recognisable.This echo chamber is comfortable, but it is also corrosive. It slowly disconnects the industry from the people it claims to serve.6. The Western ParalysisThis risk-averse logic has particularly deep roots in Western brands.Years of risk management have created an instinct to protect rather than challenge. Legacy is treated as something to preserve, not reinterpret. Internal discussions revolve around portfolio complexity, naming conventions, and colour palettes while more fundamental questions remain untouched.Meanwhile, a new class of competitors has moved beyond the role of efficient followers. As described in earlier Brixen Papers, particularly around the Direct-from-Manufacturer (DfM) model, these players operate with fundamentally different assumptions.They ship faster because they control more of the value chain. They iterate publicly because feedback loops are short and ownership is clear. They accept imperfection and failure as part of the process because learning happens in-market, not behind closed doors.This isnt a geographical argument as much as a structural one. What distinguishes these new competitors is not where they are based, but how they are set up. They do not wait for permission from tradition, nor for validation from industry consensus. They act, observe, adjust, and move again.The comparison with the automotive sector is uncomfortable but instructive. VW did not lose the EV race because it lacked engineering capability. It lost momentum because it was operating with processes, structures, and decision-making rhythms that had been designed for a different era.Those processes worked brilliantly for decades. But as technology cycles accelerated and the nature of innovation shifted, they turned from advantage into constraint. VW hesitated not due to lack of talent or know-how, but because legacy structures favoured optimisation, perfection, and internal alignment over speed, learning, and iteration.While incumbents debated purity and process, others shipped reality, learned in public, and adapted faster. At a certain tipping point, what once made organisations successful becomes the very thing that prevents them from moving forward.Innovation isnt defined by who had the idea first. Its defined by who took the risk and committed early, learned fast, and delivered efficiently.7. The Real Cost of Playing SafeThe long-term consequences of this behaviour are already visible, even if theyre rarely discussed openly.When products converge, brands lose pricing power. When differentiation erodes, marketing volume increases but impact decreases. When everything looks similar, price becomes the dominant argument, and margins follow it down.Over time, brands become dependent on suppliers not only technically, but strategically. They lose authorship. They lose narrative control. They lose the ability to justify their existence beyond distribution reach and promotional spend.This is not just a cultural problem. It is an economic one. And it also translates to resilience and brand value. Sameness is expensive. It just hides its cost well.Where Innovation Actually HappensWhen innovation is allowed to expand beyond marginal product features, something important becomes visible. Real differentiation is still possible, but it rarely happens where the industry expects it.Advanced Bikes showed this when they decided to build their own manufacturing. It was not a marketing move, but a structural one. By reclaiming control over production, they challenged the industrys dependency model and reasserted authorship. The company ultimately failed and is now rebuilding. That does not invalidate the attempt. It highlights how difficult, and how costly, real differentiation has become in an industry optimised for safety.Waldbike followed a different path. Similar products, but a fundamentally different go-to-market logic. By selling primarily through car dealerships instead of traditional bike retail, the brand was not innovating the bike, but the context in which it existed. That shift allowed it to reach people the cycling industry rarely addresses, without changing the product narrative dramatically.Flyer Bikes, in its early years, grew through yet another unconventional route. Tourism rather than classic bike shops. Mobility and use case rather than performance. Experience before specification. That strategic positioning mattered more than any single technical feature.These examples dont point to one correct model. They reveal something more important. Innovation becomes meaningful again when brands are willing to rethink the entire system around the product, not just the product itself.8. What Actually Creates Brand ValueDespite what the industry often claims, technology alone does not create brand value.Technology enables. It doesnt define.Brand value emerges when product, culture, and storytelling reinforce each other in a coherent direction. The product provides credibility. Culture creates belonging. Storytelling gives meaning. Remove any one of these, and the structure goes obsolete.Many brands attempt to compensate for the absence of one element by exaggerating another. Loud storytelling to mask weak products. Borrowed athlete culture to replace internal identity. Agency-driven narratives to simulate meaning.This isnt strategy. Its substitution.True innovation begins with a point of view. A belief about what cycling should be, who it is for, and why it matters beyond performance metrics.9. Innovation as Culture, Not DepartmentThe most innovative brands are not those with the largest R&D budgets or the most aggressive launch schedules. They are the ones that treat innovation as a cultural posture, not as a departmental function.Innovation cannot be confined to technical development alone. It must exist at an organisational level, shaping how teams are structured, how decisions are made, how products are brought to market, and how brands relate to distribution, sales, and communication. The idea that innovation only happens inside R&D departments is a legacy assumption, and it no longer reflects how the world works.Truly innovative organisations build teams that challenge each other instead of aligning too quickly. They allow ideas to mature outside quarterly reporting cycles. They test early, fail visibly, and learn before the story is written. This applies as much to product as it does to go-to-market strategies, retail models, and brand behaviour.Innovation cannot live in isolation from commercial reality, but it cannot be dictated by it either. It requires leadership willing to absorb short-term discomfort across the organisation in exchange for long-term relevance.The real enemy is comfort, not complexity.10. The Relevance TestTheres a simple way to assess whether a brand is truly innovating.Remove the logo from the bike.Would anyone still recognise it?Not because of components or specifications, but because of intent, philosophy, or attitude. And not even only through the product itself.Because innovation does not have to live in frame shapes or engineering alone. It can exist in how a brand sells, how it works with dealers, how it communicates, how it prices, how it shows up in peoples lives.Ask a simpler question instead. What does this brand stand for? Why is it different from the next one? What is its reason to exist? And what does it do that others do not?If those answers are unclear, then innovation is not missing at a design level. It is missing at a meaning level.True innovation leaves fingerprints. You feel it before you read about it. You understand it without a spec sheet or a sales pitch.That recognition creates loyalty. Not features. Not numbers. Not claims.11. What Needs To ChangeThe industry needs to redefine innovation, not as something new, but as something necessary.Innovation is not dead because the industry lacks ideas. It is dead because the word has been overused, while the practice has been reduced to marginal product features. In the bicycle segment, innovation is still treated as something that should primarily happen at product level. Most of the conversation revolves around geometry tweaks, weight savings, motor updates, or component iterations that barely change the lived experience of riders.Meanwhile, innovation in sales models, distribution, communication, marketing, manufacturing logic, target audiences, and business structure is treated as secondary, risky, or simply ignored. That imbalance is the core of the problem. Real differentiation rarely comes from the bike alone anymore. It comes from how brands operate, how they reach people, how they build trust, and how they create meaning beyond features.This requires three things.Bravery, to break existing templates instead of endlessly optimising them.Patience, to build products and communities that outlast launch cycles.Vision, to prioritise the next decade over the next season.Because the industrys biggest limitation is not technological, nor even purely creative. It is structural and behavioural. It lives in how organisations are set up, how decisions are made, how success is measured, and how safety is rewarded. Narrative is only the visible layer of something much deeper.Innovation is not a press release. Its a behaviour.And the future of cycling will not be decided by watts, weights, or wheel sizes, but by those willing to think differently, act earlier, and take responsibility for the consequences. By those who become their own authors, create real differentiation, and step into leadership.They will have the power to shape the market and create advantage.The rest will remain paralysed, or simply arrive too late.Thats what real innovation looks like. This article is part of the Brixen Bike Papers a 41 Publishing initiative from our 2025 Think Tank in Brixen, created with the goal of building a better bike world.A series of essays diving into the uncomfortable truths, hidden opportunities, and real changes our industry needs. Click here for the overview of all released stories.The Brixen Bike PapersRelease Date1. The Industrys Next Innovation Isnt a Bike Its Unity11.11.20252. The Eurobike Sabbatical A Clear Answer for 202618.11.20253. Ingredient Marketing The Bike Worlds Marketing Fiasco25.11.20254. The Bike Brands New Competitors02.12.20255. The Lack Of Digitalisation09.12.20256. The Dealer Gap16.12.20257. The Media and Marketing Problem Too Dumb to Be Simple23.12.20258. The Ignored Majority30.12.20259. What Really Defines Innovation in Cycling Product, Culture, or Storytelling06.01.202610. Defining Goals What Industry Do We Want to Be?13.01.202611. To be announced soon20.01.2026Der Beitrag Brixen Papers #09: What Really Defines Innovation in Cycling Product, Culture, or Storytelling? erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

Theres no doubt Falkenjagd know their way around titanium. But things get a bit wild with the Titan Speed Gravel C-Ti handlebars: carbon and titanium in one cockpit? Whats the point? More comfort without that spongy feel? More stability without the weight penalty? Thats exactly where Falkenjagd are out to prove that rigid material dogmas dont belong on gravel. We put the hybrid handlebars to the test to find out whether the concept is more than just an expensive statement piece.Falkenjagd SpeedGravel C-Ti | g 308 in 440 mm width | 490.90 | Manufacturers-WebsiteTitanium stands for toughness, durability and that unmistakable high-end look. Carbon, on the other hand, combines low weight, top-tier performance and targeted compliance. Put the two together? It could be a stroke of genius or an expensive design misstep. Falkenjagd argue its the former: a finely balanced mix of strength, low weight and functionality, aimed at gravel riders seeking a handlebar thats robust yet light and comfortable enough for real-world adventures.That said, lets get one small caveat out of the way up front, this isnt the place for modern aero gravel vibes. If youre looking for ultra-compact and super-narrow dimensions, look elsewhere. The C-Ti comes in four widths (400, 420, 440, 460 mm), all with a more classic and adventure-ready layout. But thats exactly what makes sense here. If youre into bikepacking, spending long days in the saddle and picking routes based on feel rather than power numbers, what you really need is control, comfort and confidence, and for that, wide bars still rule.With minimal flare and extra rise, the Falkenjagd Titan Speed Gravel C-Ti handlebars are perfect for any adventure bike that could use a bit more comfort.Wheres the carbon hiding on this gravel bar? On the Falkenjagd Titan Speed Gravel C-Ti, only the drops are made from carbon and theyre tucked away beneath the bar tape.On Review: What is the Falkenjagd Titan Speed Gravel C-Ti Bar Really Capable of?Right from the build-up, the Speed Gravel C-Ti impresses with a feature you wouldnt necessarily expect from such an exotic component: fully-integrated cable routing. This ensures a super clean front end, and for a titaniumcarbon hybrid, thats anything but standard. Unsurprisingly, the bars are made to match titanium bikes perfectly, and our test model is fitted to a Falkenjagd Aristos SL, a bike that already proved itself in our gravel race group test with its forgiving, versatile handling.But how exactly does this titaniumcarbon mix work? The core of the system sits at the centre: a 3D-printed titanium top section that doesnt just look high-end, but feels it too. The carbon stays in the background and is used exactly where it makes sense, down in the drops, hidden under the bar tape. Enough with the fine details, though. The real question, as always, is: how does this cockpit actually perform out on the gravel? In short: surprisingly well. Ergonomically, the bars feel spot on, not just across the tops or on the hoods, but even the drops offer a secure, intuitive grip. With a solid, secure feel in the hand, it offers a direct connection and confident control over the roughest gravel sections.What really stands out is the 18 flare, which is a lot, even by gravel standards and thats exactly why it works so well for adventure riding. The drops are wide, offering plenty of stability and remaining easy to reach, even with a big handlebar bag hanging up front. Then theres the core feature of the bars: damping. And yes, you can genuinely feel it. On the hoods and especially in the drops, the handlebars do a great job of absorbing vibrations much like youd expect from a high-quality carbon cockpit. Thats where the carbon really comes into play, adding noticeable compliance to the system. On the tops, the damping is less pronounced, which makes sense, since this is where titanium takes over. But overall, the concept comes together beautifully: a clean titanium look, combined with carbons benefits exactly where they matter most for gravel riding.Who Should Take a Closer Look at the Falkenjagd Titan Speed Gravel C-Ti Bars?The Falkenjagd Titan SpeedGravel C-Ti deliver real added value through their innovative design and the unique carbontitanium combination, and not just on titanium bikes. That said, it fits them especially well. The look stays clean throughout, the aesthetics are spot on, and yet you still get the benefits of carbon compliance that make long days and rough tracks that much more comfortable. Of course, the cockpit sits firmly in the premium price bracket. But lets be honest: 3D-printed titanium combined with carbon? Who else is doing that? This isnt mass-produced kit its precision craftsmanship with intent. And you can feel that with every ride.Conclusions: Would We Buy the Falkenjagd Titan SpeedGravel C-Ti Bars?Yes. Because the SpeedGravel C-Ti isnt just an interesting concept it genuinely delivers in everyday use. Integration, well-thought-out adventure ergonomics, excellent control thanks to the generous flare, and noticeable damping all come together to create a cockpit that truly makes sense on long gravel days. Sure, there are cheaper options out there. But its rare to find design, function and exclusivity combined so seamlessly. A luxury product? No doubt about it. But what about buyers remorse? Thats highly unlikely.TopsSleek and well-thought-out handlebarPerfect ergonomics for adventure gravelPlenty of compliance in the dropsFlopsOnly available with added riseNo narrower option than 400 mmMore infos at 1bike4life.com. Der Beitrag Hot or Not? Falkenjagd Titan Speed Gravel C-Ti Bar on Review erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

I want to get it right. Everything. My life, my body, my mind scheduled and optimised down to the last minute and cell. I read, I listen, I track, I measure. Somewhere between biohacking and burnout, Im trying to become the best version of myself: balanced, healthy, successful. And slowly, that very pursuit is becoming my downfall.This article was first published in our sister magazine DOWNTOWN.My daily life is often meticulously optimised. No coffee before 10am, because cortisol levels should still be naturally low. No screen time before 9am, so as not to mess with my body clock. And none just before bedtime either, to avoid suppressing melatonin production. No blue light, but plenty of sunlight ideally straight after waking, barefoot on the grass for grounding, to bring the electrolyte balance into check. 10,000 steps a day, or at least 90 kilometres on the bike but without social media. No more than 20 minutes, says the daily screen-time tracker.Nutrition? Another minefield: Vegan, vegetarian or carnivore depending on the latest research or personal phase. Porridge vs. eggs for breakfast; intermittent fasting is a given. No gluten, no sugar but a handful of nuts as a healthy snack and freshly squeezed lemon juice for its antioxidant properties (but be careful: brush your teeth straight after, because of the acid). The list of supplements is long: magnesium in the evening for muscle relaxation, ashwagandha in the morning to reduce stress, plus zinc, vitamin D and B12, omega-3, creatine, glycine and NAC.Building muscle is essential for the immune system: kettlebell swings vs. calisthenics, explosive or controlled strength. Cold plunge but only before training, otherwise muscle growth suffers. Afterwards: protein for recovery, electrolytes for fluid balance, and more than two litres of water a day. Eight hours of sleep is non-negotiable cool, dark, tracked with an Oura ring, and mouth tape for optimal nasal breathing.Mental focus and emotional balance are optimised, too: 30 minutes of meditation, yoga or at least breathwork, every day. A touch of microdosing naturally, just for focus and creativity. Waiting or driving is not downtime its podcast time. Huberman, Rich Roll, Lex Fridman delivering the latest in neuroscience and biology. Later, a few pages of reading, memory training, deep work in 90-minute cycles.And the environment gets its fair share of attention too because social connection is vital for longevity, I read that somewhere recently. Fifteen WhatsApp messages need replying to, two of them as three-minute voice notes. Answer emails. Weekly therapy and daily journaling, to work through childhood. Drop the kids at nursery. Take the dog out ideally at sunrise, to make the most of the daylight. And of course: work.A modern-day checklist everything, every day, and effortlessly when possible. Because the ideal is out there somewhere, waiting to be reached, if only we use our time right. But the more I strive to reach that ideal, the further I drift from myself. Efficient, informed and yet exhausted. The more I optimise, the more I lose my sense of direction. Because whats missing from the to-do list is?Stillness and simply being.Stillness and simply being. Thats not something I find on to-do lists only beyond them, and far too rarely. My days are already overloaded before they properly start. I no longer live linearly, but simultaneously. While I try to stick to my healthy routine, I scroll through other lives, bodies, opinions, holidays, rides, workouts and recipes with a podcast in my ears and the constant thought that Im wasting precious time.Alongside that: a quiet feeling that somewhere else is better. Better food, better lives, better optimisation. With so many options, I feel paralysed unable to truly choose. A friend asks: Fancy hanging out tomorrow evening? My answer: Maybe. Not because I dont want to but because Im afraid of missing something else. Another invite, a workout, a certain moment, something better. I hardly make plans anymore I keep my schedule open. I dont live decisions I juggle scenarios. And even when I say yes, I keep a white lie in my back pocket, just in case.The constant comparison of options and people becomes the metronome of my life. I check, adjust, safeguard against missing out, messing up, simply being human. We now live in a culture of possibility-overload everything is allowed, nothing is required, but somehow everything should happen. Sometimes I wonder: will I one day sit alone on a terrace thinking, I had every opportunity and yet didnt fully live a single one? Not out of lack, but out of fear of choosing the wrong one.The performance raceWhile Im writing this, Im thinking: maybe AI could write it better. Clearer. Faster. More objectively. And so I delegate decisions not just logistical ones, but existential ones too. Instinct becomes an algorithm. Instead of asking friends, I ask ChatGPT for tips and hacks on happiness. I hand myself over to be sorted and structured often more effectively than I could do alone. And yet I lose something in the process. Not just responsibility. But also my right to detour. My freedom to be wrong. My human fuzziness.Dont get me wrong its not that I dont trust the tech. Its more that I dont trust myself. Because the machine doesnt waver. It doesnt get tired, doesnt drift into vague desires or slow, melancholic moods. It just delivers. Better than I ever could. Maybe thats the new ideal: not to be present, but to be deliverable. Fit, alert, informed and connected. 24/7. Emotionally robust. Aesthetically minimal. Living a life that can be calculated, tracked and optimised. We turn exhaustion into function and de-emotionalise our feelings.Humans become computers. We connect, run on autopilot, need to recharge our batteries, crash on weekends and shut down on holidays. Between moment and possibilityI remember a scene: a friend of mine, nicknamed Dede, was sitting on my terrace, waiting. No phone, no headphones, no visible purpose. Just waiting. Her elbows rested on cushions, her head tilted back, fingers playing with a strand of hair. It was quiet. Peaceful. And it reminded me of something Ive lost since childhood: the ability to not use a moment, but simply experience it. Without judging it, optimising it or sharing it. That same day, I invented a verb for this act of doing nothing: to dede. It was my attempt at finding a counterbalance to the constant pressure to optimise a moment where just being is enough.The real challengePerhaps the true task of our time is not to do more, but to want less. Not in the urge to constantly improve or compare ourselves, but to simply feel whats already there. Especially in the moments when nothing is happening when were waiting, when were bored. Without apps, without trackers. Thats when life truly takes place: beyond perfectly staged routines and the endless hunt for the next best thing. Its the challenge of accepting boredom and emptiness instead of instantly filling them with new input and later feeling overwhelmed. What helps me most is remembering my childhood my days were already won if I played football and climbed trees. Im writing this without really knowing what I want to tell you. I only know that Im tired and Im not alone. Because what Im describing is the current state of my generation: searching, fragmented, yet somehow clear and doubting at the same time. Maybe I could have written this better. More structured. But maybe its exactly right the way it is. Because that too is part of simultaneity: doubt and clarity. Tiredness and still carrying on. And maybe thats the answer: accepting this ambivalence. Its the first step toward a less scheduled, but more fulfilled life. Because everythings already here. Nothing is missing.Der Beitrag The Cult of Optimisation Why Doing Less Might Be the Answer erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

More gradient, more movement, more road feel The Garmin Tacx Alpine gradient simulator promises to elevate both immersion and enjoyment during indoor training sessions.But with a price tag of over 1,000, is the tilt function a real training upgrade or just an expensive toy for indoor enthusiasts?Garmin Tacx Alpine | Gradient adjustment: 3% per second | Simulates gradients from -10% to +25% | 10.9 kg 1,099.99 | Manufacturers websiteIndoor training has long outgrown the days of mindless spinning in front of a screen. With the Tacx Alpine gradient simulator, Garmin aim to take the experience to the next level, turning virtual climbs into something you can actually feel. Priced at 1,099, this add-on replaces your front wheel and tilts your bike according to the terrain on screen. It simulates gradients of up to 25% and descents down to 10%, promising quick and precise responsiveness. The range has been tailored to match Garmins compatible NEO series smart trainers, and with a maximum incline 5% steeper than rival offerings from Wahoo or Elite, the Alpine gives Garmin a technical edge on paper.The Alpine is designed to deliver gradient changes with an accuracy of 0.1% and can react at a rate of up to 3% per second, promising snappy transitions from flat roads to steep climbs. But does the added realism translate into a genuine training benefit or is the Alpine ultimately just an expensive gadget for tech enthusiasts?On Test: What Is The Garmin Tacx Alpine Gradient Simulator Capable Of?Unlike the NEO series smart trainers, the Alpine gradient simulator doesnt work autonomously so youll need a nearby power socket. The setup that follows is straightforward. Using the Garmin Connect app, the Alpine can be configured step by step, with clear guidance through the entire installation process. The front wheel is removed, and the fork is secured in the proprietary Dynamic Fork Mount. Garmin include a wide range of adapters to cover both quick-release skewers and thru-axles, supporting road bikes as well as standard mountain bike hub widths. Next, the Alpine is paired with a compatible smart trainer either the NEO 2T or the NEO 3M. After the initial pairing, both devices will automatically recognise and connect to each other as soon as theyre powered on. The setup is completed with a one-time system calibration. After that, the Tacx Alpine is ready to go and youre straight into the virtual world.The Alpine is compatible with Garmins current smart trainer models including the NEO 3M, for example.Thanks to four guided rollers, the 10.9 kg Alpine stands extremely firm and feels stable at all times, even during all-out sprints. The altered ride sensation can feel a little odd at first, especially on descents when the front end suddenly sinks. But after a brief adjustment period, the systems strengths start to shine through: climbs and descents arent just something you see you actually feel them. That makes a big difference when it comes to gauging your effort. You react quicker, shift earlier, and dont have to stare at the screen the whole time just to anticipate the next climb. If youre going to suffer, at least do it in the right riding position. In our test, the Alpine gradient simulator ran very quietly, blending in completely with the normal noise level of the smart trainer. Gradient changes were quick and precise. Only in rare situations like on very rolling routes with rapid transitions between climbs and descents did the system occasionally reach its limits, lagging slightly behind. For the vast majority of ride profiles, though, this is barely noticeable.The Alpine makes less sense when used in ergometer or workout mode. In these scenarios, the constant changes in gradient can be distracting, as the incline of the selected route often doesnt match the prescribed resistance levels.The simple control and display panel shows the connection status and lets you switch between manual and automatic height adjustment.The controls are easy to reach even while riding even when your heart rates well above your IQ.A key point: the Alpine doesnt restrict the NEO 3Ms range of movement. In fact, it actively supports the trainers multidirectional freedom, meaning its motion features remain fully functional even when used with the gradient simulator. We tested the NEO 3M both with and without the Alpine and noticed no loss of mobility whatsoever.The Alpine also adds steering functionality, which feels more intuitive than using Zwift Click. That said, theres a slight delay in response time. At present, the steering feature is supported by both Zwift and the Tacx Training app. To enable steering in Zwift, the Alpine needs to be paired specifically as a steering device. The gradient simulation itself works independently, as long as the Alpine is connected to a compatible smart trainer.The pivoting front axle mount translates your steering inputs directly into the virtual world.Who Should Take a Closer Look at The Garmin Tacx Alpine Gradient Simulator?The Garmin Tacx Alpine gradient simulator is aimed at riders who dont see indoor training as a necessary evil, but instead value maximum immersion, variety and realism. Especially during longer sessions, the simulated gradients encourage regular changes in riding position, create a more natural load on the body and noticeably boost comfort without having to keep one eye glued to the screen at all times.The Alpine really comes into its own on free rides, virtual races and longer routes in Zwift or the Tacx Training app. In these scenarios, it plays to its strengths by signalling changes in effort early and delivering a ride feel thats much closer to the real thing.Its less suited to those who mainly focus on structured ergometer-style workouts. In these cases, the constant up and down can become distracting, as gradient and resistance dont always align in a logical way.Conclusions: Would We Buy The Garmin Tacx Alpine Gradient Simulator?Yes provided were training indoors regularly and with purpose. The Garmin Tacx Alpine doesnt just bring you closer to the real-world experience, it also improves comfort and weight distribution on longer rides by encouraging varied riding positions. It really shines during free rides and virtual races, helping you anticipate climbs more intuitively and ride with less rigidity. For structured workouts in ergometer mode or occasional use, however, the added value is limited and the investment harder to justify.TopsImproves comfort and variety on long indoor sessionsStable and secure setupControls are easy to reach while ridingSupports the NEO 3M smart trainers multidirectional movementQuiet motorFlopsSlight delay in steering response in ZwiftFor more information, visit garmin.comDer Beitrag Hot or not? Garmin Tacx Alpine Gradient Simulator On Test erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

Train indoors as effectively and realistically as you do outdoors? Thats exactly what the Garmin Tacx NEO 3M smart trainer aims to deliver with multidirectional movement, dynamically-simulated inertia and realistic road feel. But does all that actually make your training better or just more expensive? We put it to the test to find out.Garmin Tacx NEO 3M | Maximum power output: 2,200 watts | Simulates gradients up to 25% 23.6 kg | 1,799.00 | Manufacturers websiteWith the rise of e-sports, online racing and virtual training platforms, indoor cycling has long outgrown its status as a winter stopgap. Its now a serious training alternative for ambitious riders. Platforms like Zwift and co. provide motivation, structure and a sense of competition but its the right hardware that ultimately determines how realistic the overall experience feels.This is exactly where Garmin step in with the Tacx NEO 3M. Its the latest addition to the NEO range and follows the same core principle as the NEO 2T, which has been around since 2019: a direct drive trainer with no belts or gears, generating resistance purely through an electronic magnetic brake. At the heart of the system are 32 individually controlled neodymium magnets, which not only give the trainer its name, but in the case of the NEO 3M, deliver up to 260 N of braking force. Thats enough to simulate virtual gradients of up to 25% significantly more than most competing models.Instead of using a heavy mechanical flywheel, Garmin rely on a virtual flywheel for the NEO series. On the NEO 3M, the inertia that would normally come from the rotating mass of a flywheel is simulated via software. The system dynamically calculates the inertia profile based on parameters like rider weight (up to 125 kg) and current speed, constantly adjusting it through an electronically controlled magnetic brake. This allows inertia, deceleration and load changes to be managed more precisely and responsively than would be possible with a traditional physical flywheel.Flywheel? Nowhere to be seen!New on the NEO 3M is its multidirectional movement: in addition to integrated motion plates that allow forward and backward movement along the longitudinal axis, the trainer also introduces a slight but deliberate rotation around the vertical axis for the first time. The goal is to improve comfort, realism and muscle engagement by mimicking the natural motion of riding outdoors. The setup is rounded off by the well-known Real Road Feel feature, which simulates up to nine different surface types.With up to 2,200 watts of rider input, an accuracy rating of under one percent, and retail prices starting at 1,799, the Tacx NEO 3M clearly sits in the high-end segment. But is this premium-level package really the next logical step for dedicated athletes or more a case of high-tech overkill? Thats exactly what we set out to find in this test.On test: What Is The Garmin Tacx NEO 3M Really Capable Of?The Garmin Tacx NEO 3MO makes one thing clear straight out of the box: this smart trainer is no toy its a serious piece of training equipment. Weighing in at 23.6 kg and fitted with wide support legs, this direct drive trainer sits solid and stable on the ground. Thanks to the built-in carry handle and foldable design, its still surprisingly easy to lift and can be packed away into a compact shape after each session if needed.Garmin include a generous range of adapters with the NEO 3M. Whether youre using quick-release or thru-axles, road, gravel or mountain bikes with different hub standards pretty much any setup can be mounted without a fuss. The trainer comes standard with an HG freehub and a pre-installed Shimano/SRAM 11-speed cassette (1128 teeth) for a starting price of 1,799. Its a nice touch, but a 12-speed cassette would be more in tune with current standards. If you need a different freehub to fit your own cassette, though, be prepared to get your wallet out: SRAM XD/XDR, Shimano MICRO SPLINE and the two Campagnolo options (912 or N3W) each come with a hefty 279 surcharge ouch!Garmin also offer optional hardware when it comes to connectivity. In addition to wireless pairing via Bluetooth or ANT+, the NEO 3M is compatible with the optional Tacx Smart Network Adapter, which enables a wired data connection. That might be appealing for race scenarios, but Garmin charge an extra 150 for it or a hefty 349 if you opt for the smart trainer bundled with the HG freehub. In practice, though, most riders wont need this add-on. Even when running a second smart trainer in the same room during our test, we didnt experience any connection issues whatsoever.Initial setup of the Garmin Tacx NEO 3M smart trainer was straightforward in this test, guided through the Garmin Connect app. Firmware updates installed without issue, and pairing worked reliably right from the start. One important detail: if youre using the trainer with Zwift, youll need to disable the secure Bluetooth connection setting in the Garmin Connect app. No calibration is required either unlike many other smart trainers, the NEO 3M is ready to ride straight out of the box.The moment you start pedalling, the NEO 3M shows its biggest strength: its multidirectional movement. Especially at a steady pace, the system feels noticeably more natural and comfortable than rigid trainers, subtly balancing out the uneven force of each pedal stroke with small, stabilising motions. When climbing out of the saddle or during full-on sprints, the NEO 3M moves more noticeably along the longitudinal axis. If preferred, you can lock the motion plates in place useful for structured sprint workouts. That said, we deliberately rode with the motion enabled throughout testing, as both comfort and realism benefit significantly. For the first time, the NEO 3M also allows a slight tilting motion around the vertical axis. Its not excessive, but clearly noticeable and genuinely helpful.The movement experience becomes even more realistic when paired with the Garmin Tacx Alpine gradient simulator, which we reviewed separately and which fully supports the NEO 3Ms multidirectional motion.Too much rocking? The motion plates can be fully locked at the rear of the NEO 3M if needed.Want even more realism? Pair the NEO 3M with the Garmin Tacx Alpine to simulate gradients all while maintaining full freedom of movement.In this test, the Garmin Tacx NEO 3M smart trainer impressed with lightning-fast yet smooth resistance changes. Even sudden shifts in pace were handled instantly and without any lag. If youre chasing that extra bit of responsiveness for race attacks in online events, you can switch the NEO 3M into Race Mode and channel your inner Pogaar between the sofa and the bookshelf. The trainers reactivity is also clear when shifting gears virtually in Zwift. Gear changes are transmitted almost instantly, with a subtle but noticeable jolt that feels surprisingly realistic.The Garmin Tacx NEO 3Ms virtual flywheel also delivered a highly authentic ride feel during this test. Its biggest advantage becomes clear in transitional moments: if you briefly stop pedalling for example, on a descent or to catch your breath the system continues spinning realistically based on the current inertia and resistance. When you start pedalling again, the cadence already matches the simulated riding conditions, making the restart feel smooth and natural.The virtual flywheel also enables true downhill simulation. On descents, the NEO 3M will maintain speed or even accelerate on its own, with no pedal input required a feature that not only adds realism, but also brings a noticeable sense of flow and outdoor-like momentum, especially in races and free rides.Underglow lighting: The LED colour changes as your power output increases.At higher power outputs, it glows red.For an extra dose of immersion, theres the so-called Real Road Feel. The Tacx Training app includes a demo workout that lets you ride through all the different simulated surfaces in sequence. Cobblestones, wooden bridges and even ice can be distinctly felt through the trainer. The latter is especially tricky in terms of handling: apply too much torque and youre instantly rewarded with a spinning rear wheel. Traction, it turns out, is something you have to master even in your living room.On fire or more like on ice? You decide. The Real Road Feel feature lets you experience a total of nine different surface types. The surface simulation also works in Zwift, adding variety and a stronger sense of immersion. But the feature isnt without its drawbacks: for one, it only activates while youre pedalling, and over longer stretches the constant feedback can start to feel a bit tiring. The trainer also becomes noticeably louder when Real Road Feel is active. If you tend to train late at night or have thin walls and sensitive neighbours, it might be worth disabling the feature via the app or directly in Zwift. After all, good hallway relations can be a training goal too. In general, the Garmin Tacx NEO 3M was very low in vibration during testing, but it does get audibly louder under load compared to, say, a Wahoo KICKR Core.A standout feature of the NEO series is its ability to run without external power. This is made possible by the magnetic motor brake, which can function like a dynamo. Without a power source or connected simulation, the NEO 3M automatically mimics a flat road and generates enough resistance to allow you to train regardless. That makes the NEO 3M ideal for warm-ups at races or for sessions in spaces without easy access to a socket.Even without a power supply, you can still pair the trainer with platforms like Zwift though youll lose features like downhill simulation and virtual inertia, as these require electricity. When plugged in, however, the NEO 3Ms power consumption remains impressively low: during pedalling, it used just one to two watts in our test. Only when you stop pedalling and the flywheel simulation kicks in does the draw briefly spike to around 40 watts. So if you want to save energy, just keep pedalling which, lets be honest, is probably the better training decision anyway. No power? No problem! The NEO 3M works even without being plugged in.Who Should Take A Closer Look At The Garmin Tacx NEO 3M?The Garmin Tacx NEO 3M is aimed at riders who dont see indoor training as a necessary evil or just a winter fix, but as a serious and committed part of their training routine. If you train indoors regularly, value comfort and are after the most realistic ride feel possible, this is one of the most compelling systems currently available.Those of us who train with structure, race regularly or spend long hours on the trainer will especially benefit from the natural freedom of movement, precise resistance simulation and high level of immersion all of which can be taken even further when paired with the compatible Tacx Alpine gradient simulator.For occasional riders or hobby athletes who only jump on the trainer now and then, the high price of this setup is hard to justify. More affordable smart trainers offer far better value for money in that case. And if youre after an ultra-quiet system, its worth taking a closer look or considering turning off features like Real Road Feel. After all, maximum immersion inevitably comes with a bit more noise.Conclusions: Would We Buy The Garmin Tacx NEO 3M?The Garmin Tacx NEO 3M delivers an indoor training experience that leaves little to be desired. With multidirectional movement, lightning-fast response times, high measurement accuracy and features like Real Road Feel and downhill simulation, it offers a level of realism that few smart trainers can currently match. Its self-powered operation and wide performance range make the NEO 3M equally well suited to structured training, virtual racing and long free rides. Yes, its expensive but if youre serious about your indoor training, this is one of the most compelling high-end systems on the market.TopsHigh freedom of movement delivers great comfort on long sessionsPrecise and fast control of resistance and inertiaCan operate without external powerReal Road Feel adds extra immersionAuthentic feedback during virtual gear shiftsFlopsHigh additional costs for accessories and alternative freehub bodiesReal Road Feel can be noisy and may not suit all living situationsPronounced rocking motion when riding out of the saddleFor more information, visit garmin.comDer Beitrag Hot or not? Garmin Tacx NEO 3M Smart Trainer On Test erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

The cycling industry talks about innovation but avoids a more fundamental question: what is it actually for? Caught between performance obsession and pure utility, it lacks a clear direction and a tangible picture of what it wants to become.This paper argues that clarity of intention is a prerequisite for meaningful growth and innovation, because the industry continues to overlook the Ignored Majority. Drifting forward without choosing a path costs more than the industry is willing to acknowledge. This article is part of the Brixen Bike Papers a 41 Publishing initiative from our 2025 Think Tank in Brixen, created with the goal of building a better bike world.A series of essays diving into the uncomfortable truths, hidden opportunities, and real changes our industry needs. Click here for the overview of all released stories.The Brixen World Bike Papers The Ignored Majority1. Opening2. The False Choice We Keep Making3. Urban Mobility Is Not A Silver Bullet4. The Missed Middle Space5. The Ignored Majority6. Corporate Logic vs. Human Logic7. Profit Is Not The Enemy8. Redefining Growth Before Innovation9. Conclusion1. OpeningThe cycling industry likes to talk about the future.Innovation. Sustainability. Inclusion. Growth. Transformation.These words appear in presentations, keynotes and press releases with remarkable consistency. What appears far less often is clarity.Because before any industry can innovate, it needs to know what it is trying to be.Cycling doesnt lack technology. It lacks direction.For years, the industry has behaved as if its purpose were self-evident inside its own ecosystem. As if cyclings role in society had already been defined and taken seriously. Outside that bubble, it often never moved beyond being perceived as a pastime or a toy. And the cost of that disconnect is now impossible to ignore.We see it in a gradual loss of cultural traction, shrinking attention outside the core, confused product portfolios, exhausted retail networks and consumers who no longer fully trust the story being told to them.Yet the response remains the same. More tech. More features. More products.This isnt progress.Its a displacement activity.The industry keeps asking whats next without answering why it exists.And without a clear answer to that question, innovation turns into an end in itself. Technology becomes justification. Growth becomes a reflex rather than a choice.This paper doesnt aim to predict trends or celebrate disruption. It aims to confront a simpler and more uncomfortable reality.The cycling industry has never properly decided what kind of industry it wants to be.Until it does, every future it talks about will remain accidental.2. The False Choice We Keep MakingThe cycling industry often frames its future as a binary decision.On one side, niche and performance driven cycling.On the other hand, mass urban mobility.Both positions claim legitimacy. Both contribute value. And both become problematic the moment they attempt to define the entire system.Performance as default cultureRacing and performance are part of cyclings DNA. Competition inspires. Engineering excellence matters. Pushing limits has value.The problem begins when performance stops being a segment and becomes the worldview.High performance cycling is frequently presented as aspirational, sustainable through innovation, inclusive through imagery and the natural driver of progress for the entire ecosystem.In reality, it rests on contradictions the industry rarely addresses honestly.Products with high environmental impact.Short life cycles defined by seasons, not longevity.A culture coded for insiders rather than newcomers.Price points beyond the reach of most would-be buyers.Inclusion framed as visibility instead of accessibility.Carbon frames replaced yearly do not become sustainable because they are lighter.A culture that requires initiation does not become inclusive because it claims openness.Performance cycling is not the enemy.But believing it can represent the whole of cycling is a structural error.A niche cannot be the backbone of a mass cultural movement.3. Urban Mobility is Not a Silver BulletAt the opposite end sits urban mobility.Cargo bikes, commuting, e-bikes, infrastructure and policy alignment promise scale, relevance and social impact. And rightly so. Cities matter. Transport matters. Mobility matters.But here too, the industry risks oversimplification.Urban mobility is often framed as the responsible future of cycling, communicated in functional and rational terms rather than emotional or cultural ones. While effective at policy level, this framing risks detaching cycling from the aspects that have historically created identity, desire and long-term attachment.When mobility becomes purely functional, desire disappears. Identity dissolves. Culture flattens. Cycling turns into an appliance.Bikes become tools rather than companions.Users become units rather than people.Urban mobility is essential. But on its own, it does not build belonging. It does not create long term emotional attachment. And without that, it struggles to sustain a living culture around cycling.A system built only on function may be efficient.Its not resilient.4. The Missed Middle SpaceBetween niche performance and pure utility lies a vast, largely ignored territory.This is the space of human cycling.Not athletic cycling.Not infrastructural cycling.Human cycling includes health and prevention, wellbeing, fitness without competition, active aging, rehabilitation, accessibility, everyday movement, experiencing nature and freedom, even status and the simple pleasure of riding.This is where most people actually live.They are not racers.They are not activists.They are not early adopters of technology.They are human beings looking for movement that fits into their lives.This middle space is massive in scale, economically relevant and socially transformative. Yet it remains underrepresented in product development, storytelling, retail formats and strategic thinking.The industry continues to design primarily for its most vocal minority while neglecting its silent majority.Not because that majority doesnt exist.But because it doesnt shout.5. The Ignored MajorityThe ignored majority does not reject cycling. It rejects the way cycling speaks to them.They are confronted with spec sheets instead of stories, performance language instead of human language, intimidating retail environments and unspoken rules about what real cycling looks like.The industry often interprets this as lack of interest.It is not.It is a failure of relevance.People dont stay away from cycling because motors are too weak or drivetrains insufficiently advanced. They stay away because the ecosystem around cycling feels alien, judgmental or unrelated to their lives.This is not only a marketing problem.Its a cultural one as well.And culture cannot be fixed with another product launch.6. Corporate Logic vs. Human LogicAt the heart of this disconnect lies a deeper tension.Corporate logic optimizes for growth rates, market share, units sold, short product cycles and margins.Human logic asks different questions. Does this improve my life? Does it reduce friction or add complexity? Does it include me? Does it last? Does it make me feel good and alive?The industry often claims to serve human goals, yet remains structurally optimized around those most deeply embedded in the sport. An inherently emotional product is still primarily designed, communicated and sold by and for insiders. That contradiction is no longer invisible.Consumers feel it.Dealers live it.Employees experience it.The result is cynicism. Not because people dislike cycling, but because they sense the gap between what is said and what is done.7. Profit is Not the EnemyThis paper is not an argument against profit, growth or commercial success.Healthy businesses are essential. Profit enables continuity. Growth creates opportunity.The problem is not profit.The problem is unexamined growth.Growth without direction leads to feature inflation, narrative confusion, channel conflict, discounts, unnecessary dependency and eroded trust.When growth becomes the goal instead of the outcome, innovation turns performative. Newness replaces usefulness. Technology becomes justification rather than solution.The cycling industry does not suffer from a lack of ideas.It suffers from a lack of boundaries.8. Redefining Growth Before InnovationInnovation should never be the starting point.Innovation is the response to a clearly defined problem.Before asking what we can build or what technology we should invest in, the industry must answer who it is serving, what role cycling plays in peoples lives and which problems are worth solving.Equally important is deciding what cycling should not try to be.Only then does innovation become meaningful.Otherwise it remains activity without direction.9. ConclusionFor decades, progress was measured in speed, performance and volume. Those metrics made sense during a phase of expansion and technical exploration. They are no longer sufficient for an industry that claims social relevance, environmental responsibility and cultural impact.Cycling is no longer marginal. It is part of public health debates, urban planning, aging societies and changing lifestyles. That shift demands more than faster products or smarter technology. It demands intention, strategy and leadership.Growth today is not only a question of scale, but of alignment. Alignment between what is produced and what people actually need. Between what is promised and what is delivered. Between ambition and human reality.This does not require abandoning performance, innovation or commercial success. It requires placing them in context.Performance should inspire, not dominate.Mobility should empower culture, not erase it.Innovation should serve people, not distract from purpose.The opportunity ahead is not to become something entirely new, but to become more honest about what cycling can and should offer across a lifetime. A companion for health, movement, freedom and connection, not merely a product category or seasonal trend.Choosing this path requires restraint, clarity and the courage to say no.Industries that choose direction before acceleration do not lose momentum. They gain coherence.The future of cycling will not be defined by technology, disruption or speed.It will be defined by intention.The question is no longer whether cycling can innovate.It is whether the industry is ready to take responsibility for the future it is already shaping. This article is part of the Brixen Bike Papers a 41 Publishing initiative from our 2025 Think Tank in Brixen, created with the goal of building a better bike world.A series of essays diving into the uncomfortable truths, hidden opportunities, and real changes our industry needs. Click here for the overview of all released stories.The Brixen Bike PapersRelease Date1. The Industrys Next Innovation Isnt a Bike Its Unity11.11.20252. The Eurobike Sabbatical A Clear Answer for 202618.11.20253. Ingredient Marketing The Bike Worlds Marketing Fiasco25.11.20254. The Bike Brands New Competitors02.12.20255. The Lack Of Digitalisation09.12.20256. The Dealer Gap16.12.20257. The Media and Marketing Problem Too Dumb to Be Simple23.12.20258. Defining Goals The Ignored Majority30.12.20259. What Really Defines Innovation in Cycling Product, Culture, or Storytelling06.01.202610. To be announced soon13.01.202611. To be announced soon20.01.2026Der Beitrag Brixen Papers #08: The Ignored Majority erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

With a revised aero concept, wider rims and carbon spokes, component brand Roval are launching the third generation of their popular Rapide CLX wheelset. But can it live up to the success of its predecessors? And which riders will actually benefit from the Roval Rapide CLX III? We took a closer look in our in-depth review.Roval Rapide CLX III | Weight 1,300 g (incl. Tubeless Tape & HG Freehub) 3,499 | Manufacturers WebsiteWith the latest generation of the Rapide CLX wheels, Roval are pulling out all the stops. Carbon spokes, lower weight, and a completely revised aero concept all wrapped up in that unmistakable Roval style. Last years limited CLX II Team Edition hinted at the new direction (and we loved the silver hubs), but the new Rapide CLX III is a more complete realisation of the concept.Its not just a minor update to the aero concept Roval say theyve turned it completely on its head. Quite literally, in fact: instead of the usual deeper rear rim, the new setup has a 51 mm rim at the front and 48 mm at the back. The focus is firmly on the front wheel, where Roval claim up to 90% of aerodynamic drag occurs. Thats exactly where the new design comes in. A slightly deeper front rim boosts aero performance, while a shallower rear rim is said to improve stability in crosswinds and deliver more predictable, stable handling.The biggest update? Carbon spokes. This is the first time that Roval have used carbon fibre spokes in one of their drop bar wheelsets. According to the brand, this shaves around 100 g off the weight, increases stiffness and delivers noticeably more direct power transfer. The spokes were developed in collaboration with ARRIS Composites the same partner involved in Specializeds super-lightweight Control SL XC wheels.Roval have also introduced new hubs with a sleek dark chrome finish, as well as a revised rim profile with their signature clean aesthetic. The previous model already impressed in our carbon wheel group test with its efficiency and comfort. So the question is: can the new carbon spokes and subtle design tweaks make the ride feel even more responsive?With an internal rim width of 21 mm, the wheels are optimised for 28 mm tires still a smart choice from an aerodynamic perspective. That said, 28 is fast becoming the new 25, and our recent road tire comparison suggests that 30 mm is now setting the benchmark in many scenarios. But how does all of this actually perform on the road? And who should consider investing in a 3,500 wheelset? Thats exactly what we set out to find.On Test: What Can the New Roval Rapide CLX III Do?To do justice to the comprehensive update of the Roval Rapide CLX III, we spent several months putting the wheelset through its paces on a range of different bikes. Our test setup followed Rovals recommendation, using 28 mm Specialized RapidAir TLR tires. Fitted to the wide front rim with its characteristically broad, flat-top bead hooks, the relatively narrow tire looks a little unusual at first glance. Roval say this design ensures a particularly smooth transition between tire and rim, noticeably improving aerodynamic performance especially in crosswind conditions.The distinctive wide, flat-top bead hooks remain a defining feature of the Rapides design, engineered for maximum airflow efficiency at wider angles.The 28 mm tire is deliberately narrower than the outer edge of the rim to guide the air more smoothly, and enhance stability in crosswinds.From the moment you start rolling, its clear that the Rapide CLX III wheels deliver a noticeably more direct ride feel. Compared to their predecessor, the impact of the new carbon spokes is immediately obvious: the wheelset is significantly stiffer, but without feeling harsh. Over longer distances, its this well-judged balance between stiffness and compliance that really comes into its own.On climbs, the CLX III responds rapidly to every change in pace. Power transfer feels light-footed and racy the reduced weight and high torsional stiffness ensure that every watt goes straight into forward momentum. While theyre not among the absolute lightest climbing wheels on the market, they still deliver a snappy, lively ride.The same applies in corners: the Rapide CLX III carve through turns with precision and composure, offering predictable handling throughout. Whether its fast changes of direction or tight technical descents, the wheelset builds confidence, without feeling overly sharp or twitchy. The setup feels composed, stable and reassuringly race-focused, especially on the new Specialized S-Works Aethos 2.On flat terrain, the wheelset delivers excellent efficiency. Compared to other aero wheels, the sail effect is more restrained, but the upside is noticeably reduced susceptibility to crosswinds. The RapidAir TLR tires give the setup a taut, sporty character, though that comes at the expense of comfort. What you get in return is razor-sharp handling and direct feedback from the road.If youre after a slightly softer ride, switching to 30 mm tubeless tires and running lower pressures could be a smart move to bring more comfort into the mix.Visually, the new CLX III is every bit as premium as youd expect from Roval: a sleek carbon finish, clean lines and a confidently technical look. The flat carbon spokes fit seamlessly into the overall design though the exposed aluminium nipples do feel slightly dated on such an otherwise sleek setup. Internal nipples would have completed the look perfectly, though at the expense of practicality.The new hubs impress with a rich, classic ratchet sound and an elegant dark chrome finish. Proportions are spot on too: the front wheel looks noticeably wider, while the rear rim has also gained volume, resulting in a modern, well-balanced silhouette.The new Rapide CLX III wheels are aerodynamically tuned to work with the Specialized RapidAir TLR tires. The result is a cohesive, well-matched setup though the exposed spoke nipples do slightly detract from the otherwise clean aesthetic.Which brings us to the aero promise: on paper, the asymmetrical rim depth is meant to boost efficiency, but in practice, the difference is likely only noticeable to the pros. If youre expecting massive aero gains from the new rim profile, you may want to dial those expectations back a little. What really stands out instead is the wheelsets versatility for everyday training, and its well-rounded ride quality.Who Are the New Roval Rapide CLX III Wheels For?The new Rapide CLX III are not really aimed at riders who roll out the S-Works for a gentle cafe cruise of a Sunday morning, but rather for riders who want to push hard and feel instant response with every pedal stroke. This is a wheelset for those chasing a no-compromise all-round race setup. If youre riding 28 to 30 mm tires, youll find a thoroughly modern carbon wheel system here. Its not aimed at hardcore weight weenies or comfort-first riders, but rather those who want a fast, focused all-rounder that thrives when pushed hard.Conclusion: Would We Buy the New Roval Rapide CLX III?Yes: Even though Roval stay true to their premium image with a price tag just shy of 3,500, the Rapide CLX III wheels offer a well-rounded package of low weight, high efficiency and sharp handling. The carbon spokes not only add a noticeable boost in responsiveness, but also bring a healthy dose of style to the road too. If youre after confident crosswind control and a lively, race-ready feel, this is a true all-round carbon wheelset that delivers and not just on the new Aethos 2.TopsDirect ride feel thanks to carbon spokesPrecise handling.remium styling with matte carbon finish and dark chrome hubsFlopsExposed spoke nipples slightly detract from the otherwise high-end appearanceMore information at specialized.com/roval.Der Beitrag Hot or Not? Testing the 2025 Roval Rapide CLX III erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

Is the fastest bike the best bike for you, what are the underlying questions you need to answer first, and why is it that so many riders choose the wrong bike? We aim to find out with the help of BMCs racing focused Teammachine R 01 and their Roadmachine 01 endurance bike. Have you made this mistake? Read on to find out.Theres no denying the sexiness of the BMC Teammachine R 01 ONE and its no wonder we recently crowned it the best road bike of 2025, but does that make it the best road bike for you? Or would you be better off with BMCs endurance alternative, the Roadmachine 01? Naturally, if youre out shopping for a road bike, and moneys no object, youll be looking for the best bike. But you need to define that question a little more. Youre looking for the best bike for you. So, how do you go about answering that question, and why might the best road bike of 2025 not be the best road bike for you? Before we delve into the answers and underlying questions, lets take a closer look at the two models in question, the Teammachine R 01 and the Roadmachine 01. While spec levels may vary, its the underlying platforms that really matter here.Teammachine R 01The BMC Teammachine R 01 is the swiss brands uncompromising race weapon.BMCs Teammachine R 01 is the Swiss brands uncompromising race platform featuring an aerodynamically optimised frame that maximises surface area while simultaneously keeping weight and unwanted flex to a minimum. The unusually wide Halo fork further optimises airflow around the frame, and the bike wouldnt be complete without the aerofoil-shaped seatpost and equally aero one-piece carbon cockpit. Even the bottle cages are aero. Thats paired with up to 60 mm deep rims depending on the build and fast, skinny tires. If youre wondering which road tires actually suit your needs, check out our extensive group-test of the best road bike tires. Considering that, together with the bikes aggressive geometry with a low stack height, short rear centre and maximum tire clearance of just 30 mm, theres no denying the Teammachine R 01s podium ambitions. With its large surface areas like here around the bottom bracketaero shaped tubes like the seat tube and seat postand lower, narrower cockpit, its a finely tuned (Team)machine.Roadmachine 01The more versatile BMC Roadmachine 01 is aimed at long distance rides.The Roadmachine 01 on the other hand has a considerably less aero frame with skinnier seat stays, a skinnier seat post and a cut-out in the seat tube, designed to offer increased compliance and comfort. Whats more, the frame features an integrated storage compartment in the downtube as well as an integrated tail light on the seat tube. Paired with a less aggressive handlebar offering 20 mm rise and wider 32 mm Vittoria NEXT tubeless endurance tires, it prioritises long-distance comfort over all-out speed. In terms of geometry, its got a higher stack with a more pronounced BB drop, clearance for up to 36 mm tires or even 40 mm tires if you decide to go for a 1x setup wider bars, and just slightly longer rear end, resulting in a more upright and comfortable riding position and more composed handling compared to the Teammachine R 01.Thanks to convenient features like the integrated storage compartment in the downtube with a lid that doubles as a bottle cage mounting points for a top tube bagand a more upright riding position, the Roadmachine 01 offers plenty of versatility and all-day comfort.The Pitfalls of Choosing the Right BikeNow, looking at these two bikes, which one do you choose, and why is it that so many riders choose the wrong bike? One of the first pitfalls is marketing, the faster more race oriented bike lends itself better to superlatives and is therefore easier to hype, making it seem more appealing as a whole. For those new to the sport, that will naturally draw them to the racier of the two models. Comfort is great, and comfort can result in faster times overall, but comfort doesnt appeal to our ambitions as much as outright speed and performance. This isnt always helped by reviews in magazines as theyre typically written by seasoned riders with a certain level of fitness and skill, making them somewhat blind to the inherent compromises of a race focused bike. Lets be honest its easy to get carried away by watts, weight and wind tunnels. But not every rider dreams of KOMs or podiums. Thats why we test bikes with both racing and real-world riding in mind so you can trust our verdict, whether youre chasing seconds or just the sunrise.Furthermore, if you test ride a bike, you will usually go for a short ride, in which case the bike thats fast right off the bat will leave a bigger, more lasting first impression. However, this doesnt reflect most of your typical real world riding scenarios, which will be longer and more taxing overall. Which bike would you choose then? The one that leaves you bruised and battered, or the one that you could hop off of at the end of the day still feeling relatively fresh? Further biasing most riders in favour of the Teammachine R in a still largely male-dominated sport is peer pressure and our competitive nature. Who doesnt want to be the fastest, who doesnt want to win? We should never underestimate the power of status. And how do you increase your status? By winning.If youre not first, youre last, right?Asking the Right QuestionsSo, what can you do to avoid these pitfalls and buy a bike that you will enjoy in the long run, even or especially when no one is watching? You must ask yourself why you ride. Do you ride to measure yourself against others? To set records on Strava? To strive for the podium? To be seen and admired? Or do you ride to get out? To stay fit? To explore your surroundings, enjoy the scenery and feel the wind on your face? Answering these questions leads us to two deeper, underlying questions. Firstly, do you know yourself well enough to answer these questions? Secondly, can you answer them honestly? In other words, can you overcome your ego? If you say that you want to ride to measure yourself against others, set records on Strava, and strive for the podium, is it merely your ego speaking? Is it your ego that wants to be seen and admired?The best way to test this is to see what kind of riding you default to when you arent tracking your ride on Strava, when youre riding alone and you know that no ones watching. Do you slow down to enjoy the scenery? Do you wish you had a more comfortable ride? Do you simply enjoy being outdoors, spending hours in the saddle while taking in the scenery? Are these the rides that are the most memorable to you? Or do you keep pedalling as hard as you can, enjoying the thrill of going as fast as possible, and revelling in the sting in your legs and your lungs?What kind of riding do you default to when no ones watching?If its the latter, you know the Teammachine R 01 is the bike for you with its stiff and aerodynamic frame, optimised for speed and efficiency. With its low stack height, stiff frame, and responsive handling, it demands a fit and alert rider, taking more out of you on long-distance rides and being less forgiving of rider errors. In return, it rewards you with a thrilling ride and uncompromising performance. However, if you enjoy more leisurely rides, youll have the most fun aboard the more forgiving and compliant Roadmachine 01. Its taller stack height and stabler handling let you stay more relaxed, so you can take in the scenery and let down your guard.Thats not to say it isnt fast, but dont expect it to keep up with its purebred sibling. You also benefit from the practicality of an integrated storage compartment in the down tube for things like snacks, tools, or a windbreaker, as well as an integrated tail light for added safety. If you just dont know, because youre new to the sport and you havent been able to figure out what you enjoy, wed recommend the more versatile Roadmachine, letting you explore a little more with tire widths and setups to find out which way you lean.All That Matters in the EndUltimately, you must ask yourself: whats the point? And what it comes down to is having fun. Thats why we all ride. Its just that we have different ideas of fun. Theres type 2 fun, the kind you can only enjoy in hindsight, once youve caught your breath and the pain has subsided. Its the type of fun you love to hate and hate to love. Its a sadistic kind of fun, but rewarding nonetheless. On the other hand youve got type 1 fun, which is the type of fun you can appreciate in the moment. It isnt the type of fun you question while youre doing it. Its self-evident.Ultimately, having fun is all that counts.ConclusionWere not here to tell you what bike to ride, whether its the Teammachine R01, Roadmachine 01 or any other bike, we just want you to ride. And to keep riding, its got to be fun, which itll most likely be if youre on the best bike for you. Unless youre getting paid to perform, no one really cares if youre the fastest or what bike you ride. Ride the bike that you enjoy, ignore everything and everyone else and be your own gauge. The only thing that matters is showing up with a smile on your face. So, what are you waiting for? Well see you out there.Der Beitrag BMC Teammachine vs Roadmachine Which Road Bike Suits You Best? erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

OPEN have used the U.P.PER. CONCE.PT to map out the next evolution of their U.P. and U.P.PER frame platforms. Strictly limited in numbers, this concept frameset serves as a testbed for new shapes, carbon layups and compliance concepts. We got our hands on one of the rare test bikes and took a deep dive into the thinking behind it and what it reveals about the next generation of OPENs gravel line-up.OPEN U.P.PER. CONCE.PT | 7.42 kg in Size M | 5,600 | Manufacturers WebsiteBack in May 2025, OPEN unveiled the U.P.PER. CONCE.PT. Strictly limited and already mostly sold out, the concept bike is conceived not as a production model but as a glimpse into what lies ahead. Lightness and efficiency are key, paired with a new approach to gravel that puts climbing and comfort on equal footing with aerodynamics.Staying true to their ethos, OPEN continue to do things their own way. Rather than chasing short product cycles or gimmicky marketing trends, they focus on deliberate, thoughtful evolution. Behind the brand are Andy Kessler, former CEO of BMC, and Gerard Vroomen, co-founder of Cervlo two veterans whove had a huge influence on road and gravel cycling alike and are now channeling that experience into an independent venture.With the U.P.PER. CONCE.PT, OPEN are marking a clear shift not by releasing a new production model, but by rethinking what a gravel bike can be. The name says it all: PT stands not just for Concept but also for Portugal, where an OPEN frame was manufactured for the first time. That alone marks a major step for the brand. The CONCE.PT also introduces a new design language and construction philosophy. To underline its experimental nature, OPEN kept it strictly limited: just 250 framesets were made available worldwide, each priced at 5,600.We were lucky enough to get one of the few test bikes, and many of the concepts explored in the CONCE.PT have since made their way into the new U.P. and U.P.PER 2.0. All the more reason to take a second look and see how this concept bike helped shape the new OPEN DNA.Reduce to the Max: The OPEN U.P.PER. CONCE.PT in DetailFrom both a technical and visual perspective, the U.P.PER. CONCE.PT consistently follows the reduce to the max principle. OPENs designers wanted to create a bike that clearly signals a new direction, focusing on what really matters. The familiar OPEN comfort was to be retained, while tube shapes were sharpened aerodynamically only where it actually makes a difference. The down tube remains close in cross section to the previous U.P.PER, but now features a clearly more aero profile.The slim head tube shows OPENs new aero interpretation.With its slender seatstays, the delicate rear end highlights the focus on weight and flex.Even more striking is the slanted, narrow head tube, which underlines the new aero direction both visually and functionally. This technical shift also defines the overall look. Up front, the low stack, integrated fork and seamless cockpit give the bike an almost aero road-bike appearance. By contrast, the rear is deliberately pared back, with extremely slender seatstays and a delicate seat tube.The visible carbon lay-up and smooth transitions underline the purist character of the U.P.PER. CONCE.PT.The Specs of the OPEN U.P.PER. CONCE.PTAlthough the U.P.PER. CONCE.PT was only available as a frameset, our test bike came as a complete high-end build, consisting of frame, fork, integrated one-piece cockpit and a matching round seatpost. Everything is designed around performance and reduction, not versatility. The CONCE.PT is exclusively built for 1x electronic drivetrains and deliberately renounces a front derailleur mount, mudguard mounts or additional bosses on the fork and rear triangle. Reduce to the max is not just a slogan here, but a core part of the design.OPEN U.P.PER. CONCE.PT 2025 5,600SpecificationsSeatpost OPEN 27,2Brakes SRAM RED E1 AX 160/160 mmDrivetrain SRAM RED XPLR AXS 1 x 13Chainring 40Stem OPEN 80-95 mmHandlebar OPEN 420 mmWheelset BikeBeat Freigeist Disc 12 x 100 / 12 x 142Tires Schwalbe G-One RS PRO 700 x 40cCranks SRAM RED XPLR AXS Powermeter 172,5 mmCassette SRAM RED XPLR XG-1391-E1 10-46TTechnical DataSize M LWeight 7,42 kgSpecific FeaturesMountingpoint Top TubeReady to paint OptionOPEN went all in on premium components. The SRAM RED XPLR AXS 113 with power meter is paired with uncompromising lightweight touches such as the GINGER saddle with its 3D-printed upper. Shifting is as crisp as you expect, and the gearing range is clearly tuned for steep ramps and efficient climbing. You get huge reserves when the road tilts skywards, while top speed on the flat is deliberately limited.The lightweight GINGER saddle with a 3D-printed surface complements the rear ends focus on low weight and carefully tuned compliance.The integrated OPEN B.A.R. cockpit combines a clean one-piece look with adjustable stem length thanks to a patented internal clamping system.Particularly interesting is the integrated cockpit. While one-piece solutions often look great but allow for limited adjustments, OPEN take a very different approach with the new B.A.R. system. Thanks to a patented internal clamp, the stem length can be adjusted by 15 mm in 5 mm increments, without disconnecting the brake hoses. Combined with ten different handlebar shapes, this should allow virtually everyone to dial in their perfect position.Stem length is adjusted via an internal sliding clamp that can be moved forwards or backwards in 5 mm increments combining a clean integrated look with real adjustability through a patented internal clamping system.The carbon wheels come from BikeBeat and give the setup a noticeably light, smooth ride, while the 40 mm Schwalbe G-One RS Pro tires complete the concept somewhere between race gravel and all-road.BikeBeat carbon wheels support the bikes lively character with fast acceleration and precise handling.Fast Schwalbe G-One RS Pro tires in 40 mm width leave little room to spare in the frame and fork.The strictly limited U.P.PER. CONCE.PT is now completely sold out and has been replaced by the new U.P.PER 2.0. This model picks up many of the concepts tested here but adds more everyday usability. This includes increased tire clearance up to 46 mm, a standard chain catcher and the option of both 1x and 2x drivetrains. At the same time, OPEN adopt modern standards such as a T47 bottom bracket, UDH derailleur hanger as well as fully internal cable routing.Compact, Efficient, Built to Climb: The Geometry of the OPEN U.P.PER. CONCE.PTThe geometry of the U.P.PER. CONCE.PT clearly defines the new OPEN DNA and underlines the bikes sporty, efficient character. With 570 mm stack height and 380 mm reach in size M, the riding position is pleasantly compact without feeling cramped, which makes it ideal for long climbs and a central, powerful pedalling position.The combination of a 71.5 head angle and 425 mm chainstays ensures balanced handling that feels direct but never nervous, showing its strengths particularly on fine gravel. The steep 73.5 seat tube angle positions you efficiently over the bottom bracket and supports very direct power transfer when climbing. With a 1,024 mm wheelbase, the bike remains stable at speed, while the moderate 75 mm bottom bracket drop adds extra control in corners and out of the saddle.SizeMLTop Tube545 mm564 mmSeat Tube483 mm504 mmHead Angle71.572.5Seat Angle73.573.5BB Drop75 mm73 mmWheelbase1024 mm1028 mmReach380 mm392 mmStack570 mm595 mmRoad DNA on Gravel? The OPEN U.P.PER. CONCE.PT on TestOnce you hit the test loop, it becomes immediately clear that the U.P.PER. CONCE.PT is an incredibly fun, direct gravel bike with a clear licence to climb. A touch of pressure on the pedals is all it takes and the bike takes off, light, efficient and with a surprising road-like snap. The combination of the ultra-light 850 g frame, the lively BikeBeat wheels and the stiff front end delivers a ride feel you would normally expect from a modern all-road racer rather than a gravel bike.What you sense in the first few metres continues consistently in the details. The climbing focus runs through the entire setup. The 40-tooth chainring is clearly aimed at steep ramps and limits top speed on the flat, but uphill the bike feels almost weightless. Even out of the saddle, it remains pleasantly efficient, although under maximum load you can feel a slight flex in the rear end. That fits the overall picture. For OPEN, CONCE.PT doesnt stand for brute stiffness, but for a mix of low weight, comfort and intelligently balanced performance.Comfort also shows two distinct faces. The rear end with its flexy seatpost reacts very sensitively and should be a real treat for lighter riders. The front is sporty and firm, delivering the precision you want, which perfectly suits the bikes climbing and speed-focused character.Handling is balanced overall, more direct than playful, but never nervous, which clearly positions the bike in the sporty gravel segment. It feels most at home on fine gravel, where its fast, controlled and impressively light on its feet. On rougher terrain, the 40 mm Schwalbe G-One RS Pro tires reach their limits. Grip and reserves are limited, which becomes particularly noticeable on rough descents.In the end, the U.P.PER. CONCE.PT presents itself as a pure performance gravel bike with clear road DNA and a strong climbing focus. Its a bike that loves to climb, shines on fast gravel sections and is aimed at riders looking for an ultra-light, reactive and emotional gravel experience, rather than maximum reserves in rough terrain.Who Should Tale a Closer Look at the OPEN U.P.PER. CONCE.PT?The U.P.PER. CONCE.PT is a specialist for hilly terrain and fast gravel rides. With its low system weight, heavily climbing-oriented geometry and direct, road bike-like drive, its aimed at riders who prioritise efficiency and lightness over maximum off-road reserves.As the CONCE.PT is strictly limited and nearly sold out, attention now naturally shifts to the new U.P. and U.P.PER. 2.0 models. Many of the ideas introduced by the CONCE.PT are set to live on there. How close the production bikes come to the ride feel of the concept bike can only be answered by a separate test.Helmet Specialized S-Works Prevail 3 Fjllrven | Glasses Shimano Equinox Photochromatic | Jersey GONSO ROAD JERSEY M | Bibs GONSO RIDE MILES BIB LONG CIRCLE M | Shoes Giro Privateer Lace Socks Pas Normal Studios Solitude Socks | Vest GONSO ROAD VESTConclusions About the U.P.PER. CONCE.PTWith the U.P.PER. CONCE.PT, OPEN didnt want to launch yet another gravel bike, but to make a technical statement, and thats exactly what they achieved. The strictly exclusive concept model clearly shows where the brand is heading in terms of design language, manufacturing and ride character. Many of the ideas first sketched out here can now be found in the new generation of U.P. and U.P.PER models. If you love hilly gravel routes, appreciate light-footed handling and are looking for a purist, technically precise performance bike, the CONCE.PT embodies this philosophy, and the new models offer a realistic way to get very close to it.TopsLively handlingDirect accelerationAdjustable stem lengthFlopsFrame shapes and visible carbon are a matter of tasteSlightly limited tire clearance on the U.P.PER. CONCE.PTMore information at opencycle.comDer Beitrag OPEN U.P.PER. CONCE.PT 2025 on Review The Concept Bike Behind OPENs New Gravel Generation erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.