Lightweight construction used to be the top priority in road bike construction, with German carbon experts leading the way. However, with the advent of disc brakes, aerodynamics and integration, the influence of these innovative developers waned. Now, two former leading brands want to show how light road bikes can be today with their modern complete bikes. Our sister magazine TOUR has tested the Benotti Fuoco and the Schmolke Leggerissima TLO tried out. Here is the test of the Benotti Fuoco Carbon Ultra.
The Benotti Fuoco Carbon Ultra on test: saddle and seatpost
The full carbon saddle is covered with a wafer-thin padding and an Alcantara-like cover: at 118 grams, it is still very light, comfortable and non-slip. The seat post (168 grams) and clamp also look solid and the comfort at the rear is good. We did find the post head a little annoying, as it requires a spanner for its fiddly adjustment.
The cockpit of the Benotti
The elegant and comfortable handlebar combination integrates the cables and should also bring the bike forwards aerodynamically. Weight according to the manufacturer: less than 300 grams. On request and for an additional charge, Benotti also produces lighter models with lower weight approvals. The graceful computer holder is included in the scope of delivery.
Drive and deceleration
Benotti dispenses with tuning parts on the drivetrain and installs a complete Sram Red AXS: flawless shifting, powerful brakes, low weight. The bike is also optionally available with Shimano Dura-Ace, in either case the corresponding power meter comes as standard.
Frame and fork of the Benotti Fuoco
The frameset of the "Ultra" version is manufactured in Germany, with an optimised layout plan enabling Benotti to achieve a better stiffness-to-weight ratio compared to production in Asia. At 787 grams (fork: 371 grams), it does not break any records, but should be able to withstand loads under 140 kilograms rider weight. The paintwork in a brushed silver finish comes from a Dutch specialist and is a limited edition of 100 pieces, weighing just 35 grams.
Wheels and tyres
The hooked rims are manufactured in Duderstadt and combined with carbon spokes and hubs with ceramic bearings. Together with Conti time trial tyres and TPU tubes, the set weighs just over two kilograms and impresses with good stiffness.
Facts & figures about the Benotti Fuoco Carbon Ultra
- Note: 1,6
- Price: 10,999 Euro
- Weight of complete wheel: 6.1 kilos
- Frame sizes: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58 cm (test size greased)
Geometry
- Seat/top/head tube: 478/540/141 millimetres
- Stack/Reach/STR: 562/375 millimetres/1.50
- Stack+/Reach+/STR+: 611/570 millimetres/1.07
- Wheelbase/caster: 985/64 millimetres
Equipment
- Drive/gear shift: SRAM Red AXS 2x12 (48/35, 10-33 t.) | Note: 1,0
- Brakes: SRAM Red AXS (160/140 millimetres) | Note: 1,0
- Tyres: Continental Grand Prix TT 28 mm (eff.: 31 mm) | Note: 1,0
- Impellers: ax-lightness Ultra 30C
- Impeller weights: 920/1232 grams (f./h.)
Measured values
- Weight of complete wheel: | Note: 2,3
- Driving stability: 7.04 N/mm | Note: 2,3
- Rear comfort: 111 N/mm | Note: 1,7
- Comfort front: 82 N/mm | Note: 2,3
- Ride/ bottom bracket stiffness: 49 N/mm | Note: 2,7
Evaluation of the Benotti road bike
Strengths and weaknesses of the Benotti Fuoco Carbon Ultra
- Plus: Modern look, solid add-on parts, no special rider weight limit
- Minus: Bottom bracket stiffness not at top level
How TOUR tests
Jens Klötzer
Editor
