When James 'Gino' Murphy of Islington Cycling Club was paralysed in a freak cycling accident, his fellow members got seriously creative to raise funds for one of the UK's leading paralysis charities. To achieve their 20,000 target, the club will give this unique vintage bike to the first person who donates over 2,000

Right on cue for the 2026 aero road bike comparison, MERIDA unveil the new REACTO. The bike promises outstanding aero performance combined with a surprisingly low weight. Visually, it takes a more understated approach than some of the more extravagant aero machines in this test field. But can this sharp-looking, angular racer hold its own against the big names in the aero game?MERIDA REACTO TEAM | 7.05 kg in Size M | 10,299 | Manufacturers WebsiteThe MERIDA REACTO has always stood for speed, efficiency and pure racing intent, and the latest generation of this aero road bike aims to deliver exactly that. With this update, the Taiwanese brand are not just targeting aerodynamics or clever features. At 7.05 kg, the impressively low weight is designed to boost versatility too, because a modern aero bike has to do more than just dominate on the flat.MERIDA made their ambitions clear with the first leaks ahead of the 2025 Tour de France that was when the REACTO made its WorldTour debut alongside the pros of Bahrain Victorious. Even though MERIDA are currently without a WorldTour team, the REACTOs lofty ambitions remain unchanged.So how does the MERIDA REACTO TEAM stack up against the fastest aero road bikes on test?If its Fast, it Has to be Light Too the MERIDA REACTO TEAM PhilosophyFor an aero bike to succeed in the wind tunnel, it often comes down to one thing: maximum integration. Fully integrated cockpits, perfectly matched wheelsets, and aerodynamically critical bottles sculpted to match wide down tubes. ROSE, Wilier and BMC all follow this path.MERIDA take a very different approach with the new 2026 REACTO TEAM. The concept centres on a deep, narrow head tube, combined with an ultra-slim down tube that almost seems to ignore the existence of bottles altogether. Thats what makes MERIDAs strategy so intriguing. It not only highlights contrasting design philosophies, but also raises the question of how much real-world performance lies in these all-in-one systems.Rounded and ergonomicWith the Vision Metron 5D Aero cockpit, the MERIDA REACTO TEAM is the only bike in this aero road bike review 2026 not to use a handlebar from its own brand.Slim and aerodynamicAt just 15 mm, the seatpost on the MERIDA REACTO TEAM is one of the slimmest in the entire test field, and it achieves that without sacrificing stiffness.Visually, MERIDA have gone their own way too. While many of the other bikes in this group test rely on rounded profiles and broad surfaces, the REACTO TEAM looks sharp, angular and at times strikingly slender in its proportions. The overall impression is unapologetically performance-driven, with a design that is not afraid to break from convention. All the more surprising, then, is the low weight of just 7.05 kg, because angular tube shapes usually come with a weight penalty.High techThe Vision Metron RS 60 wheels with carbon spokes are both light and aerodynamic, making them a perfect match for the performance-driven character of the MERIDA REACTO TEAM.Cool RunningIt would not be a true MERIDA without the brands signature brake adaptors, complete with cooling fins for enhanced braking performance.EdgyWith its sharp, angular design, the MERIDA REACTO TEAM stands out from the rest of the test field, setting itself apart from its more curvaceous rivals.For all its bold lines and individual concepts, the REACTO remains more conventional in other areas, such as geometry. It is clearly race-focused, but without straying into extremes. The 73.5 seat angle places you in a classic, centred pedalling position. A stack-to-reach ratio of 1.41 positions this firmly on the racier side of things. The result is a versatile riding position that lets you adopt an aggressive aero tuck when you want to push on, yet still sit comfortably for long climbs.Size3XSXXSXSSMLXLTop Tube506 mm521 mm535 mm545 mm560 mm575 mm590 mmSeat Tube440 mm470 mm500 mm520 mm540 mm560 mm590 mmHead Tube100 mm105 mm112 mm128 mm140 mm155 mm175 mmHead Angle70.570.57272.573.573.574Seat Angle75.574.5747473.57373Chain Stay410 mm410 mm410 mm410 mm410 mm410 mm410 mmBB Drop70 mm70 mm70 mm66 mm66 mm66 mm66 mmWheelbase981 mm987 mm984 mm992 mm992 mm1,002 mm1,011 mmReach373 mm377 mm384 mm390 mm395 mm400 mm409 mmStack512 mm517 mm529 mm542 mm557 mm571 mm593 mmA Refreshing Blend the Spec of the MERIDA REACTO TEAMTrue to its name, the MERIDA REACTO TEAM comes equipped with components straight out of the pro peloton. The Shimano DURA-ACE Di2 groupset includes a power meter, an 11-30 t cassette and 52/36 t chainrings, giving you the gearing to sprint flat out for the line, while still keeping something in reserve for the climbs. MERIDA also follow the trend towards shorter cranks, fitting our test bike with 170 mm arms.It is a slight drawback that the frame does not use the UDH derailleur hanger standard. That is not an issue with current road groupsets, but if you are considering a SRAM XPLR setup, youll be out of luck.Unlike the rest of the bikes in this group test, MERIDA rely on third-party components for both the cockpit and the wheels. Up front, you get a Vision Metron 5D Aero cockpit in a 400 mm width at the drops, paired with Vision Metron RS 60 wheels. The bike rolls on 28 mm Continental GP 5000 S TR tires, which measured 30.5 mm on our test bike. We were happy with this choice, given they took the top spot in our test of the best road bike tires. The result is a fast and refreshingly curated build that weighs in at 7.05 kg and costs 10,299.MERIDA REACTO TEAM 2026 10,299SpecificationsSeatpost D-ShapedBrakes Shimano DURA-ACE BR-R9200 160/160 mmDrivetrain Shimano DURA-ACE Di2 R9200 2 x 12Chainring 52/36 TStem Vision Metron 5D Aero 110 mmHandlebar Vision Metron 5D Aero 400 mmWheelset Vision Metron RS 60 12 x 100 / 12 x 142Tires Continental GP 5000 S TR 700 x 28cCranks Shimano DURA-ACE FC-R9200 170 mmCassette Shimano DURA-ACE CS-R9200 1130TTechnical DataSize XXXS XXS XS S M L XLWeight 7,05 kgSpecific FeaturesCockpit and wheelset from VisionBrake adaptor with cooling finsSeatpost with integrated lightMERIDA REACTO TEAM on Test Fast and FocusedIn our test field, the MERIDA is never going to be the most exotic aero specialist, but it might be the most versatile aero race machine. And that concept works. The REACTO is one of the standout bikes on test. When it comes to punchy acceleration, only the slightly sharper ROSE Shave FFX has the edge. Thanks to its stiff frame, fast Vision Metron RS 60 wheels and top-tier Continental tires, the MERIDA surges forward with ease, even at higher speeds. The low weight also plays its part, helping this aero road bike sprint eagerly uphill.The handling is beautifully dialled in, reminiscent of the BMC Teammachine R. It feels secure and intuitive, yet pleasingly direct. On the flat, the bike tracks with reassuring stability. On climbs, its agile character adds a real sense of fun. Overall, it delivers a superb ride feel. Tip the weight slightly forward on descents and the bike truly comes alive. It is nimble enough for quick changes of direction, yet always leaves you feeling that you could push a little harder. Rock solid at speed. Agile when it gets tight.At the same time, the REACTO impresses with its efficiency. As a fast and focused race bike, its aero concept performs at a very high level, bettered only by the outright aero specialists, the Cervlo S5 and Factor ONE. Even so, MERIDA have nothing to hide. With its well-considered build and cleverly engineered frame, it ranks among the fastest bikes in our test group.Where the MERIDA REACTO TEAM really claws back ground is in compliance. The frame offers a subtle degree of damping, and the comfort cut-out in the seatpost helps take the sting out of the ride, while still providing some feedback from the road. It strikes an excellent balance between control and comfort for a race bike.All things considered, the MERIDA REACTO TEAM delivers a superb all-round package. It combines outstanding efficiency with agile, engaging handling and steering that feels both intuitive and precise. If you are looking for the complete aero road bike, this could well be it. Tuning tip: Opt for a narrower cockpit to achieve an even faster aero position.Who is the MERIDA REACTO TEAM Made For?The REACTO TEAM is an aero road bike with genuine all-round DNA. On fast sections it piles on the speed, and when the road tilts upwards it remains impressively capable thanks to its low weight. It is spot on for riders who want maximum pace across varied terrain, without giving anything away on the climbs. The real trump card is its handling. It feels intuitive yet direct, combining responsiveness with stability for a riding experience like few other bikes in our test group. That makes it ideal for a hectic peloton, elbow-to-elbow battles for position in the final sprint, or a committed attack on the descent.AccessibilityBeginnerProBLING FACTORlowhighAGILITYsluggishplayfulSTABILITYnervousconfidentHANDLINGdemandingintuitiveEFFICIENCYlowhighACCELERATIONsluggishnimbleFUN FACTORdulllivelyCOMFORTfirmcomfortableVERSATILITYlowhighHelmet Uvex Surge Aero MIPS | Glasses Oakley Radar EV Path | Jersey Pas Normal Studios Essential Long Sleeve Jersey | Bibs Pas Normal Studios Mechanism Bibshort | Socks Pas Normal Studios Mechanism Aero Socks | Shoes Q36.5 Unique Pro | Vest Pas Normal Studios Mechanism Stow Away GiletConclusion on the MERIDA REACTO TEAMIts a great start to the season for MERIDA their new REACTO TEAM takes the top spot in our 2026 aero road bike comparison. Instead of chasing extreme aero at all costs, MERIDA focus on a consistently well-rounded performance package. High efficiency, a surprisingly low weight, beautifully balanced handling and a distinctive look come together to form a coherent racing machine. It is precisely this seamless blend of speed, control and versatility that sets the REACTO apart from the rest of the test field, earning it a well-deserved place on the podium in our aero road bike review 2026. Congratulations!TopsSuper-intuitive, direct handlingDistinctive, stylish designHigh efficiencyLow weightFlopsNo UDH derailleur hangerMore information at merida.com.The TestfieldThis bike was tested as part of the 2026 Aero Road Bike Group Test for an overview of this group test as well as all other tested aero bikes, check out the 2026 Aero Road Bike Group Test.All bikes in test: Cervlo S5 | Factor ONE | MERIDA REACTO TEAM | ROSE Shave FFX | Wilier Filante SLR ID2Der Beitrag MERIDA REACTO TEAM Review in our 2026 Aero Road Bike Comparison erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

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Welcome to the Liveblog of the 2026 Grand Prix de Denain. Another cobbled semi-classic that serves as preparation for the tougher Classics coming up. Join us and dont miss anything from another exciting day of cycling, live and minute by minute.

If you say aero in 2026, theres a good chance youll think of the Factor ONE. Its arguably the most radical performance bike of the year, so we simply had to include it in our 2026 aero road bike review. But its brutish presence, top-tier price tag and bold promises raise expectations sky high. So can the ONE truly deliver, and does it really have the edge over the rest of the test field?Factor ONE | 8.45 kg in Size 56 | 13,399 | Manufacturers WebsiteFactor Bikes are known for building fast, unconventional machines. With the ONE, theyve taken performance optimisation to another level. Rarely have we seen a road bike so radical and so single-mindedly honed for aerodynamics. Parked next to the ONE, even the most advanced aero race bikes suddenly look like restrained all-rounders. And yes, uncompromising in this case also means that the industrys holy grail, low weight, takes a back seat. The Factor ONE tips the scales at a hefty 8.45 kg of carbon: almost a full kilogram heavier than the next heaviest bike in this test. The question is whether this extreme concept can truly succeed. Is this the future of aero road bikes, or is the ONE pushing things further than most riders are willing to go?Form Follows Function the Philosophy Behind the Factor ONEForm follows function is a phrase that gets thrown around a lot in the world of performance bikes. With the Factor ONE, it genuinely hits the mark. This is a purebred race machine with one overriding objective: maximum aerodynamics. Within Factors line-up, it sits alongside the OSTRO VAM aero all-rounder and the O2 VAM climber, created with one clear aim in mind: to win the fastest races on the calendar. The timing was unfortunate, as the launch coincided with the loss of a fixed spot in the mens WorldTour. Even so, the womens team Human Powered Health and the newly formed Modern Adventure Pro Cycling Team are both racing on Factor road bikes, so there is no shortage of opportunities or ambition.All in oneThe Black Inc SIXTY TWO wheelset is perfectly matched to the Factor ONE. That comes as no surprise as despite the different names both brands share the same owner.Not quite super aero?The Factor ONE may not come with specially shaped aero bottles, but it does feature aerodynamically optimised bottle cages that are tailored to the frame.One look at the front end tells you everything about the ONEs intentions. The bayonet-style fork and completely integrated handlebar make a bold statement the one-piece cockpit dispenses with a conventional stem, bolting directly to the razor-sharp, widely flared fork.. From head-on, few bikes appear as narrow and delicate as the ONE. That design language continues along the deep yet slender down tube, which is paired with Factors own bottle cages. At the rear, the shapes are more familiar, but no less focused on speed. A cut-out around the rear wheel, reminiscent of the Cervlo S5, and a straight, deep-section seatpost are all geared towards minimising drag.Hold it right there!Thanks to a cleverly integrated steering stop on the Factor ONE, the fork cannot over-rotate into the frame, effectively preventing damage in the event of a full lock turn.Ceramic rolls fasterCeramicSpeed bearings in the hubs, paired with a matching CeramicSpeed bottom bracket, help extract that last marginal gain in efficiency from the Factor ONE.Such an uncompromising aero focus comes at a price, and not just in terms of the substantial 8.5 kg weight. Visually, the ONE divides opinion. It is striking and turns heads, looking almost like a rolling prototype. Classical beauty, or elegant design in the traditional sense? Not really. But as ever, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.Rounded and ergonomicThe cockpit on the Factor ONE does not just look spectacular it also impresses with wide, ergonomically shaped contact points that sit comfortably in your hands.Razor sharpIs this still a road bike? The Factor ONE looks as though it has escaped from a velodrome, or a time trial start ramp.The geometry, on the other hand, is much less divisive. It is tailored to a modern aero riding position, with a clear emphasis on efficiency in the hoods. The 75.5 seat angle is steep, and together with the zero-offset seatpost, it shifts your riding position further forward over the bottom bracket. That makes it easier to sustain an aggressive, aerodynamic posture for longer. A longer wheelbase of 1003 mm and the resulting 412 mm reach help to add stability and create the space needed for this forward-biased position.Size4752545658Head Angle72.573.373.373.373.3Seat Angle76.5767675.575.5Chain Stays405 mm405 mm405 mm405 mm408 mmBB Drop77 mm77 mm75 mm75 mm75 mmWheelbase974 mm974 mm988 mm1,003 mm1,022 mmReach390 mm396 mm404 mm412 mm421 mmStack503 mm523 mm542 mm565 mm587 mmAll in ONE the Spec of the Factor ONEThe Factor ONE may be the most radical bike in this aero road bike comparison, but is it also the most expensive? Surprisingly not, at least not in the configuration we tested. Equipped with SRAM Force AXS, a 10-33 t cassette and a 48/35 t chainset, it comes in at 13,399. That makes it around 600 cheaper than the more lavishly specced Cervlo S5, which tops the test in terms of price. However, a similar Factor ONE build with SRAM Red tops out at 15,499.On the road, the ONE presents itself as a carefully curated efficiency package. It features a CeramicSpeed bottom bracket and Black Inc SIXTY TWO wheels, also running on CeramicSpeed bearings. While the Continental GP 5000 S TR tyres in 28c may look slightly understated compared to the rest of the bike, they are anything but slow, taking the top spot in our test of the best road bike tires. All in all, you get a high-end, performance-focused build that still leaves a little room to shave off a few grams if you are chasing an even lighter setup.Factor ONE 2026 13,399SpecificationsSeatpost Factor ONE D-ShapedBrakes SRAM FORCE AXS 160/160 mmDrivetrain SRAM FORCE AXS 2 x 12Chainring 48/35 TStem Factor Integrated Barstem 110 mmHandlebar Factor Integrated Barstem 380 mmWheelset Black Inc Sixty Two 12 x 100 / 12 x 142Tires Continental GP 5000 S TR 700 x 28cCranks Shimano SRAM FORCE AXS DUB 170 mmCassette SRAM Force XG-1270 1033TTechnical DataSize 47 52 54 56 58Weight 8,45 kgSpecific FeaturesExtra-wide bayonet forkCockpit with a very high rise and no stemAero bottle cageCustom UDH derailleur hangerFactor ONE on Test Top Speed is EverythingThe Factor ONE makes big promises, but how does it actually perform on the road? Does it live up to the hype? Let us start with the key factor: efficiency. Here there is little room for debate: the Factor ONE is the most efficient bike in this test field. Point it downhill and it gathers speed almost effortlessly, leaving the rest behind. Even the aero benchmark Cervlo S5 cannot keep up. The acceleration is so relentless that you run out of gears sooner than expected. So fast I thought I was flying!So is that it? Test winner 2026? Not quite. Efficiency is only part of the equation. The moment you stamp on the pedals or hit a shallow climb, the ONE begins to show its weaknesses. It performs better than its burly appearance might suggest, but it cannot match the bikes from ROSE and MERIDA, which are nearly two kilograms lighter. At lower speeds or on steeper gradients, it can feel noticeably sluggish.The handling also takes some getting used to. With a steep steering angle and high speeds, the ONE feels stable and predictable. Slow things down or throw it into tight, technical sections and the steering becomes more direct, though not necessarily intuitive. The result is a bike that feels precise, but not especially playful or razor sharp. It excels on fast descents with sweeping bends, but its less comfortable in tight hairpins or rapid changes of direction. In that respect, it is a far cry from the sharper, more agile bikes from BMC, MERIDA and ROSE.Compliance fits the same pattern. With vast expanses of carbon, deep aero profiles and large surface areas optimised for drag reduction, there is limited room for comfort. The Factor ONE is by far the stiffest and harshest bike in this test. On the plus side, the 380 mm wide cockpit offers excellent ergonomics.In the end, the Factor ONE does one thing exceptionally well: it goes fast, and it does so with outstanding efficiency. It is the clear leader when it comes to outright top speed in our 2026 aero road bike comparison. But the perfect race bike needs more than just maximum efficiency it has to deliver away from the finishing straight too. Tuning tip: Fit Continental GP 5000 TT TR tyres for maximum efficiency.Who is the Factor ONE Made For?The Factor ONE isnt just the fastest and most extraordinary bike in the 2026 aero road bike comparison. Its also the heaviest, and has the most specialised concept. That focus is reflected clearly in its intended use. The ONE is built for the fastest races and the strongest sprinters. If you spend most of your time on flat terrain, the Factor ONE rewards you with maximum efficiency, relentless speed and a serious dose of visual impact. It is a bike that turns watts into pure velocity, and looks the part doing it. Take it into the mountains, however, and its limitations become clear. As dominant as it may be on the descents, overtaking almost everyone on the way down, that advantage fades if you are the last to crest the summit in the first place.AccessibilityBeginnerProBLING FACTORlowhighAGILITYsluggishplayfulSTABILITYnervousconfidentHANDLINGdemandingintuitiveEFFICIENCYlowhighACCELERATIONsluggishnimbleFUN FACTORdulllivelyCOMFORTfirmcomfortableVERSATILITYlowhighHelmet Sweet Protection Trucker 2Vi | Glasses Oakley Sphaera Slash | Jersey Pas Normal Studios Mechanism Speedsuit | Bibs Pas Normal Studios Mechanism Speedsuit | Shoes Q36.5 Unique Pro | Socks Pas Normal Studios Mechanism Aero SocksConclusion on the Factor ONEWith the ONE, Factor promise the fastest bike on the market, which they deliver in uncompromising fashion. The sheer acceleration at speed and the outright top end are remarkable, while the radical geometry creates a completely new riding experience. However, to take overall victory in the 2026 aero road bike comparison, it lacks responsiveness at low speeds, and is missing a touch of handling finesse. To be the complete race bike, it needs to shine not only in finishing sprints and fast criteriums, but across the full spectrum of race situations.TopsMaximum efficiencyVery strong acceleration in the sprintFlopsMinimal complianceDistinctive handlingMore information at factorbikes.com.The TestfieldThis bike was tested as part of the 2026 Aero Road Bike Group Test for an overview of this group test as well as all other tested aero bikes, check out the 2026 Aero Road Bike Group Test.All bikes in test: Cervlo S5 | Factor ONE | MERIDA REACTO TEAM | ROSE Shave FFX | Wilier Filante SLR ID2Der Beitrag Factor ONE Review in our 2026 Aero Road Bike Comparison erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

Jordi Meeus did almost everything right at Nokere Koerse, but still had to settle for second place behind Jasper Philipsen after a chaotic and hard fought finale that only came together in the final metres. The Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe sprinter was among the strongest throughout the closing phase...

Lining up against some uncompromising aero extremes, the brand-new ROSE Shave FFX enters our 2026 aero road bike comparison as a lightweight all-rounder with unmistakable race DNA. But is the descendant of the popular X-Lite enough to take on the big names of the pro peloton in a head-to-head battle?ROSE Shave FFX | 6.66 kg in Size M | 8,500 | Manufacturers WebsiteAerodynamics are no longer just something to think about for flat sprint stages: they have become a decisive performance factor in almost every race scenario. ROSE have recognised that shift and are repositioning themselves accordingly. By stepping into the pro peloton as title sponsor of the Unibet ROSE Rockets and launching the new Shave FFX, the German consumer-direct brand are doubling down on their ambition to compete at the sharp end of the race segment.While some bikes in this aero road bike comparison are tailored to specific course profiles, pursuing aerodynamics with single-minded focus, ROSE take a more measured approach. The Shave FFX is not designed to be an extreme aero weapon. Instead, it aims to be a lightweight race bike, harnessing aerodynamic gains without sacrificing its all-round qualities.In this direct comparison, the key question is therefore not who posts the very lowest drag numbers. It is whether this evolutionary concept can hold its own against the aero specialists and, ultimately, for which type of racing it might be the smarter choice.Making an Aero All-Rounder The Philosophy Behind the ROSE Shave FFXWith the Shave FFX, ROSE are not opening a completely new chapter. Instead, theyre re-writing something familiar, with clear intent. Rather than building a no-compromise Formula 1 aero machine, the Bocholt-based brand have taken the proven race DNA of the X-Lite and updated it with aero optimisation in mind.. The brief was clearly defined: create a fast, modern road bike that leverages aero gains, without sacrificing weight, ride feel or versatility.Light and quietThe new ROSE RC55CS wheelset blends low weight with an aero rim profile. The ultra-subtle hub sound was divisive not every tester was a fan of such understatement.Cut for speedThe narrow 37 cm cockpit impresses with comfortable ergonomics on the tops, and makes it easy to adopt a compact, aerodynamic race position.That ambition shapes the entire design of the Shave FFX. ROSE follow a classic, controlled approach to minimising drag, focusing on efficiency and integration without resorting to any particularly extreme tube shapes or radical profiles. The front end is clean and aerodynamically optimised, with a narrow, elongated head tube, while the rear triangle remains deliberately slim. The genes of its predecessor are still easy to spot: low weight, a sporty yet balanced geometry, and a racy feel that is not confined to one specific type of course.In direct comparison, the Shave FFX therefore appears less radical than the pure aero specialists in this 2026 aero road bike review, but noticeably more versatile. It is not a dedicated sprint weapon. Instead, it positions itself as a performance all-rounder with clear race DNA.Sharpened upThe Shave FFX is ROSEs brand new aero race machine. The FFX badge marks the highest-grade carbon lay-up in their range.Enough Room?The stock tires, measuring just under 29 mm in reality, barely tap into the generous 35 mm tire clearance. There is plenty of scope here for added comfort and grip.Green machineThe green paint shifts from subtle to striking depending on the light, with the visible carbon layup shimmering through beneath the finish.This philosophy becomes particularly evident when you look at the geometry. With a stack-to-reach ratio of 1.40, the Shave FFX sits just below the average in this test field, underlining its sporty and performance-oriented character. A very compact 985 mm wheelbase further highlights its athletic intent, promising agility through corners, while maintaining enough stability for high-speed efforts.SizeXSSMMLLXLTop Tube508 mm527 mm544 mm562 mm584 mm612 mmSeat Tube435 mm470 mm492 mm512 mm537 mm575 mmHead Tube110 mm120 mm135 mm155 mm180 mm205 mmHead Angle71.57373.2573.2573.573.5Seat Angle75.57574.57473.7573.5Chain Stays410 mm410 mm410 mm410 mm410 mm410 mmBB Drop72 mm72 mm72 mm72 mm72 mm72 mmWheelbase969 mm975 mm985 mm998 mm1.015 mm1.038 mmReach375 mm385 mm392 mm400 mm412 mm430 mmStack515 mm532 mm547 mm567 mm591 mm616 mmIn-House Performance The Spec of the ROSE Shave FFXWhen it comes to the spec, ROSE did not cut corners with the Shave FFX. FFX stands for nothing less than the brands highest-grade carbon layup and their very best build kit. Our test bike rolls out in a finely tuned top-spec configuration, headlined by SRAMs latest RED AXS groupset. The drivetrain, with a 10-33 t cassette paired to a 50/37 t chainset, fits the bikes all-round brief perfectly. It gives you enough range for high-speed race scenarios, while still offering the versatility to handle tougher terrain with confidence.One detail that stands out is the high proportion of in-house components. ROSE equip the Shave FFX with their own cockpit and carbon wheelset, complete with NEWMENs silent hubs. The wheels are among the few in this test field to feature carbon spokes. It therefore comes as no surprise that the Shave FFX tips the scales at just 6.66 kg, making it the lightest bike in our 2026 aero road bike review. The wheels are wrapped in 28 mm Schwalbe Pro One Aero tires, clearly optimised for efficiency and aerodynamic performance, though they sacrifice a touch of comfort and outright grip in the process.In terms of price, the ROSE Shave FFX positions itself as a remarkably accessible option. At 8,500 for the tested top-spec model, it sits well below the test field average of 13,499, underlining ROSEs direct-to-consumer approach. Despite this, there is no sense of compromise in either spec or performance. On the contrary, the high share of in-house components, from cockpit to wheels, allows ROSE to fine-tune the entire package with a clear focus on performance.ROSE Shave FFX 2026 8,500SpecificationsSeatpost Rose Shave D-ShapedBrakes SRAM RED AXS 160/140 mmDrivetrain SRAM RED AXS 2 x 12Chainring 50/37 TStem ROSE Shave Cockpit 110 mmHandlebar ROSE Shave Cockpit 370 mmWheelset ROSE RC55CS 12 x 100 / 12 x 142Tires Schwalbe Pro One Aero 700 x 28cCranks SRAM RED AXS DUB 170 mmCassette SRAM RED XG-1290 1033TTechnical DataSize XS S M ML L XLWeight 6,66 kgSpecific FeaturesWheelset with carbon spokesAero tiresAero bottle cagesGenerous tire clearance of 35 mmROSE Shave FFX in Review The Definition of a Race All-Rounder?In direct comparison, the ROSE Shave FFX proves to be one of the most well-balanced bikes in the entire test field. It combines sharp agility with punchy acceleration, and really comes into its own on climbs. As the lightest bike in our 2026 aero road bike review at just 6.66 kg, it feels surprisingly effortless and explosive when accelerating from low speeds. Off the line, it absolutely flies.So its fast in a straight line, but how does it cope with the corners?. The handling is quick, responding immediately to steering input. Compared with bikes such as the Wilier Filante or the Cervlo S5, the ROSE feels noticeably more lively and agile, especially on twisty roads. Where bikes like the Factor ONE roll along like high-speed trains on rails, aided by longer wheelbases, slacker front ends and greater inertia, the Shave FFX forgoes this ultra-planted feel, and as a result it comes across as more nimble, more animated and overall more balanced.On fast descents and long straights, the bike remains composed and never feels nervous. However, it does not quite match the arrow-straight high-speed stability of a Factor ONE, Cervlo S5 or MERIDA REACTO. Pronounced sail effects were largely absent in our test, and the Shave FFX feels less susceptible to crosswinds than several other bikes in the field. We found that the in-house carbon wheelset reacts a bit more in strong side winds, requiring a firm hand and a bit of experience.When it comes to comfort, the ROSE Shave FFX makes no concessions. It is one of the firmest bikes in the entire test, with only the Factor ONE feeling stiffer. Road buzz and imperfections are transmitted clearly rather than muted, which aligns with its uncompromising race character. That said, we never found it uncomfortably harsh. The narrow 37 cm cockpit impresses with its ergonomic tops and clean integration, while the deep drops support a distinctly sporty, race-oriented riding position.All things considered, the ROSE Shave FFX stands out as an exceptionally light, direct and versatile race all-rounder. In exchange for this versatility, it lacks the final layer of outright aero force that defines the most radical speed machines in this test. Tuning tip: Fit wider, grippier tires to unlock noticeably more comfort and traction from the Shave FFX.Who is The ROSE Shave FFX Made For?The ROSE Shave FFX is aimed at ambitious racers looking for a light, versatile road bike to carry them through an entire race season. It feels most at home on rolling terrain, hilly circuit races and criteriums with constant changes of pace. Thanks to its low weight and sharp acceleration, it delivers on climbs just as convincingly as it does in sprints.The generous tire clearance also makes it a strong option for the classics. You can easily fit wider tires for rough tarmac or cobbles, without compromising the overall setup. For pure high-speed flat races, however, it lacks the outright aero punch of the dedicated specialists. If your focus is on relentless top speed in crosswinds or on pan-flat courses, the other bikes in this 2026 aero road bike comparison are more aggressively optimised to suit.AccessibilityBeginnerProBLING FACTORlowhighAGILITYsluggishplayfulSTABILITYnervousconfidentHANDLINGdemandingintuitiveEFFICIENCYlowhighACCELERATIONsluggishnimbleFUN FACTORdulllivelyCOMFORTfirmcomfortableVERSATILITYlowhighHelmet Oakley ARO7 MIPS | Glasses Oakley Encoder 24K | Jersey MAAP Evade Pro Base LS Jersey 2.0 Bibs GORE Ultimate | Shoes Specialized S-Works Ares 2 | Vest Pas Normal Studios Mechanism Stow Away GiletConclusion on the ROSE Shave FFXThe ROSE Shave FFX is not a niche specialist, but rather the true all-round racer of our 2026 aero road bike comparison. It may not deliver the last word in outright wind-cheating slipperiness compared with the most radical speed machines, yet it stands out as one of the most versatile and intuitively fast bikes in the entire field. On top of that, it is also the lightest bike on test. Its low weight, impressive stiffness and razor-sharp handling combine to create a beautifully balanced overall package. Add to that the fact that it is by far the most affordable bike in this test at 8,500, and you get some serious performance without blowing your budget.TopsOutstanding versatilityIntuitive, lively handlingPunchy acceleration, especially on climbsLow weightExceptionally quiet hub soundFlopsExceptionally quiet hub sound Find out more at rosebikes.comThe TestfieldThis bike was tested as part of the 2026 Aero Road Bike Group Test for an overview of this group test as well as all other tested aero bikes, check out the 2026 Aero Road Bike Group Test.All bikes in test: Cervlo S5 | Factor ONE | MERIDA REACTO TEAM | ROSE Shave FFX | Wilier Filante SLR ID2Der Beitrag ROSE Shave FFX Review in our 2026 Aero Road Bike Comparison erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

When James 'Gino' Murphy of Islington Cycling Club was paralysed in a freak cycling accident, his fellow members got seriously creative to raise funds for one of the UK's leading paralysis charities. To achieve their 20,000 target, the club will give this unique vintage bike to the first person who donates over 2,000