October 17, we are more than halfway to November, and almost a third of the way to winter. We’ve got a great rollup for you this week. Leading out, we’ve got the new 3T Racemax² Italia followed by the Campgnolo Super Record 13 “Ultra” bits to shave some weight and spend some coin. Lezyne has finally released their line of pumps and inflation accessories, including pump heads to retrofit older Lezyne pumps, that work with the Clik Valve system. We’ve got some great news from Reynolds for those with wheels manufactured by now defunct CSS Composites, such as those from the brand Forge + Bond. Komoot and Garmin have announced an expansion and deepening of their collaboration. And bringing up the rear, if you read to the end, is the updated and expanded gravel range from Bianchi out of Treviglio, Italy.
3T Racemax² Italia
The fastest gravel racebike re-engineered
On the heels of 3T announcing the next generation of the venerable Exploro in the new Primo² WPNT, they now give the world the Racemax² Italia. It is the second generation of 3T’s fastest gravel bike. Following from the platform that defined aero gravel back in 2020, it’s been completely re-engineered from the ground up: not a single centimeter is identical to the previous Racemax Italia.
This new frame retains the essence of realfast gravel. Offering geometry that balances efficiency and comfort, the Racemax² enables riders to go faster for longer. This bike is equally suited to racing the UCI Gravel World Series, grinding the local gravel series, or simply chasing PRs on the local course.
Within the 3T lineup, the Racemax² Italia represents the most race-oriented gravel bike, built to perform at its best on fast and smooth surfaces. It is the perfect bike for riders chasing top performance, whether in competition or not: from UCI Gravel World Series and Gravel Earth Series to the Lifetime Grand Prix, or any ride where speed is the goal. Its geometry stays true to the principles of realfast gravel, an ideal balance between performance and comfort that allows real-world riders to maintain peak efficiency for longer.
3T refined the handling with a steeper head angle and enhanced stability through a bigger bottom bracket drop and revised fork offset. They have improved responsiveness by shortening the chain stays to 420 mm.
Greater tire clearance and optimized aerodynamics
At the top of the updates list is the increased tire clearance. With the market trending towards wider tires, the Racemax² Italia answers the call with a maximum clearance of 51 mm WAM (363 mm RAM) for 1x setups and 48 mm for configurations with a front derailleur. The frame is engineered and aerodynamically optimized around tires with WAM between 41 and 51 mm. Helpfully, 3T also offer an overview of the best-performing tires for the Racemax² Italia.
Despite the wider frontal surface of the tires, the bike’s aerodynamics have not been compromised. Thanks to meticulous refinement work, simulations show an efficiency improvement of around 1.5% compared to the previous generation. The head tube area, which integrates CeramicSpeed SLT bearings, is now smaller and more efficient thanks to the same aerodynamic “nose” design that characterizes the Strada Italia. The fully redesigned fork also conceals the front brake caliper bolts under a dedicated cover that minimizes turbulence in this critical zone.
Smart design, inside and out
3T conceived every element of the Racemax² Italia to work in harmony: clean lines, smart details, and practical features that make a difference on every ride. Inside the downtube lies a new integrated storage compartment, built to carry tools and essentials silently and securely, thanks to a Missgrape-designed neoprene bag and Fidlock mini-hook closure. The frame is also available without the storage compartment upon request for riders who prefer a cleaner look.
Integration should serve function, not the other way around. 3T have built a light into the seatpost, ready for night rides and long adventures at the same time. The tail light is removable.
Made in Italy, with Jazz Carbon
Like all frames in the 3T Italia line, the Racemax² Italia is designed, built, and painted in Italy, using their proprietary Jazz Carbon technology — a combination of Filament Winding and Resin Transfer Moulding that ensures unmatched precision and repeatability in production. Then each frame is finished with exclusive Lechler paints, applied in Italy in four distinctive colorways: Brezza and Ambra (metallic gloss finishes), Rame and Smeraldo (iridescent shades that shift with the light). They also offer the naked “Project X” finish, or Ready-to-Paint (RTP).
Builds and availability
Available in four sizes (S–XL), the Racemax² Italia frameset weighs just 990 g (size M, unpainted) — or 1,050 g in the storage version. The fork adds 380 g.
Build options span from the frameset with 3T MORE stem and 3T Aeroghiaia Integrale LTD handlebar to complete bikes tailored for both 1x and 2x riders. 3T offer Shimano GRX 2×12 paired with 3T Discus 45|40 LTD wheels; SRAM Force XPLR AXS 1×13 with 3T Discus 45|40 LTD wheels (available also with the Torno Wide crank); SRAM Red XPLR AXS 1×13 with ZIPP 303 XPLR SW wheels (also in a Torno Wide crank option); and Campagnolo Super Record 2×13 Gravel with 3T Discus 45|40 wheels. For riders seeking full customization, the 1x setup can accommodate a 52-tooth chainring on the Torno Wide crank.
The Racemax² Italia is now available through selected 3T retailers (scroll down to the bottom) who joined their launch program. You can also order it directly on 3t.bike, or from any dealer listed in their dealer locator, with a lead time of 6–8 weeks at launch for both framesets and complete builds. Pricing starts at $6,499 for frame sets and $10,999 for complete builds.
Campagnolo “Ultra”
Super Record 13 Gets Lighter, Poshier, and Pricier
If Campagnolo’s top-tier Super Record 13-speed EPS groupset was already the definition of cycling haute luxe, then the new Super Record 13 “ULTRA” upgrade package is the ultimate expression of Vicenza’s legendary artistry. Aimed squarely at the “ultra-demanding cyclist,” this is a pure, money-is-no-object pursuit of minimal mass, maximal precision, and unparalleled style. This is not a new groupset, but a series of component replacements that shave precious grams and promise increased efficiency.
Campagnolo sez: “This list the inspiration behind ULTRA: a selection of premium components, crafted from superior materials, designed to elevate the world’s first 13-speed electronic road groupset to new heights.”
The Ultra Upgrades
Constructed using “aeronautical grade” materials, Ultra is an expression of precision and style. The three available Ultra components are outer chainrings, titanium cassettes, and new ceramic bottom bracket bearings.
1. Carbon Chainrings. The most visually striking change comes with the new outer chainrings, available in 50- or 52-tooth. Constructed using a carbon fiber structure—manufactured and stabilized at 130°C—mated to hard-anodized 7075 aluminum teeth. Both the 50- and 52-tooth chainrings claim to reduce mass by 34g over the standard Super Record version. Even if the weight savings are minimal, the chainrings are surely a sight to behold.
2. Titanium Cassettes. The Ultra 13 cassette uses aircraft-grade titanium for the larger, sprockets. The cassettes are offered in 10-33 and 11-36 variants. The use of titanium cogs results in a weight loss of 30g on the 10-33T cassette and 44g on the 11-36T cassette.
3. Ceramic Bottom Bracket Bearings. For velvety smooth, friction-free performance, the upgrade also includes bottom bracket cups using aerospace-grade Silicon Nitride ball bearings. Campagnolo then constructed the bearing races with a high-performance resin, promising reduced noise and friction. The new bearing cups employ a double-seal system for superior durability and protection to preserve the roundness and surface quality of the bearings. All of this was achieved while saving a further claimed 49g weight savings for the BSA threaded version.
The Bottom Line
With the complete Ultra kit—chainrings, cassette, and ceramic bearings—the total weight saving is up to 81 grams. For those who measure performance in watts and grams, that saving is worth the investment. The full Ultra upgrade package runs approximately 1114€ or £905 (prices will vary by region, USD pricing is not confirmed yet). Clearly, Campagnolo again proves that the final step to cycling perfection is never cheap. But, then again, “Ultra” rarely is.
For all the details head over to Campganolo and check it out.
Lezyne x Clik Valve
Inflation simplified
Lezyne, back in the spring, announced a line of pumps and accessories in collaboration with Clik Valve system. This collaboration offers Lezyne inflation products compatible with Clik Corporation’s innovative quick-connect technology.
What is the Clik Valve system?
Clik Valve technology is a bicycle inflation system designed to simplify tire inflation. It can be retrofitted to any valve stem that is designed to use removable Presta-style valve cores. Importantly, it is tubeless compatible. Accordingly, Its press-on, pull-off mechanism offers a user-friendly and more efficient alternative to traditional bicycle valve systems.
Rather than having to thread or manually clamp the pump head to the stem, the system simply “click” together, joining the pump head and valve. The Clik Valve design relies on an easy-to-use push-on/pull-off mechanism that instantly connects and holds tight while pumping. When connected, air flows in both directions, allowing Lezyne’s integrated bleed valves to provide pressure release adjustments while in use. It promises to be an improvement over the Presta valve systems.
The Lezyne inflation range for Clik Valve system
Lezyne developed a full range of Clik Valve compatible inflation accessories. The range includes floor pumps, hand pumps, CO2 dispensers and a replacement chuck compatible with existing Lezyne floor pumps.
Clik Floor Drive HP — $79.99
Shop-quality floor pump constructed from high strength steel and aluminum. Classic style wood handle. Extra-long, industrial strength hose. Large, 3.5” gauge. Deigned to efficiently fill mid- to high-pressure tires. ABS Pro Clik Chuck with air-bleed system.
Clik Floor Drive HV — $89.99
Shop-quality floor pump constructed from high strength steel and aluminum. Classic style wood handle. Extra-long, industrial strength hose. Large, 3.5” gauge. Deigned to efficiently fill high-volume tires as found on mountain, and fat bikes. ABS Pro Clik Chuck with air-bleed system.
Clik Drive HP — $44.99
Extremely compact, lightweight hand pump constructed from CNC machined aluminum. Efficient inflation design. Integrated Clik Valve compatible Flex Hose with bleed valve.
Clik Drive HV — $44.99
Extremely compact, lightweight hand pump constructed from CNC machined aluminum. Efficient high volume inflation. Integrated Clik Valve compatible Flex Hose with bleed valve.
Clik Drive CO2 — $37.99
Lightweight, portable machined aluminum CO2 inflator. Control knob for precision air release. Clik Valve compatible. Durable construction, elegant design.
ABS Pro Clik Chuck — $21.99
Replacement chuck compatible with Clik Valve system. Engineered and constructed from industrial strength materials. Integrated air bleed valve.
ABS Flex Hose with Clik Chuck – $21.99
Replacement hose for existing Lezyne hand pumps (HP and HV). Makes existing hand pumps Clik Valve System compatible.
Availability
Now! Head over to Lezyne.com to see and order the full range.
Reynolds Steps Up
Pledges support for riders affected by the CSS / Forge + Bond closure
Reynolds initially announced this support about a month ago, on September 9th. We are sharing with our readers in the hope that any affected by the recent shutdown of CSS Composites, the company behind Forge+Bond and a number of white-label rim brands including those used by Chris King, Revel, and others. With the closure of CSS and the discontinuation of warranty and crash replacement support for their carbon wheels, many riders have found themselves without options. Reynolds Cycling — a brand with one of the longest histories in composite manufacturing and carbon wheels in the industry — is stepping in to offer a solution.
A good-faith solution for riders
Effective immediately, Reynolds is offering crash replacement pricing on complete Reynolds wheelsets to any rider who owns wheels manufactured by CSS / Forge+Bond or the brands that sourced rims from them. This offer applies whether the rider’s wheels were damaged in a crash, are out of warranty, or they simply no longer wish to ride a product with no long-term support. The goal is simple: to provide a path forward for affected riders – one backed by a trusted brand committed to long-term reliability and service.
Todd Tanner, Director of Wheel Development at Reynolds, sez: “We didn’t create this problem, but we can help solve it. Reynolds has always stood behind its riders, and when we saw the uncertainty facing owners of CSS-built wheels, we knew we could offer a fair, good-faith solution. Our priority is to keep riders rolling on wheels they can trust.”
How it works
Eligible riders can contact Reynolds directly or through an authorized dealer to verify their existing wheels and access special crash replacement pricing on new Reynolds wheelsets. This includes any Reynolds complete wheel system across the road, gravel, and mountain lineup — each built with the same precision, performance, and lifetime support that define the Reynolds brand.
A heritage of support and innovation
Reynolds Cycling remains one of the few wheel brands designing, testing, and supporting its products entirely in-house. The company’s commitment to performance and service continues to set the standard for tangible performance that lasts. For more information on the program or to apply, please visit Hayes Bicycle help desk.
Komoot and Garmin
Streamlined and expanded collaboration
Komoot is teaming up with Garmin, a leading provider of GPS-enabled fitness technology, to make planning and navigating new routes even easier for millions of cyclists. When setting up their Garmin Edge cycling computer for the first time, users will now see komoot specifically recommended as part of the onboarding flow in the Garmin Connect app. This quick option to connect both platforms highlights the strong relationship between Garmin and komoot.
Expanding a longstanding collaboration
Since 2017, Garmin and komoot have enjoyed a close and trusted collaboration. Through an API connection and the komoot app in the Garmin Connect IQ
Store—which was downloaded over 2.5 million times—users have long been able to transfer their komoot routes directly to their Garmin devices. In recent years, features like “Navigate with Garmin” and komoot maps for Garmin have been added. With this new phase of cooperation, it is now even easier for Garmin users to connect komoot to their cycling computer and start navigating
What users can expect
Bianchi Gravel Range
Gravel Beyond
Bianchi has grown its gravel range. Evolved, it offers tailored solutions for every rider — from performance-focused racers to those seeking freedom and exploration. This evolution reinforces the Gravel Beyond vision: going beyond the boundaries of terrain and category, combining performance and style with the pure joy of riding.
Bianchi presented the new 2026 gravel range at the evocative setting of Castello di Casole, a Belmond Hotel property. Alongside the flagship carbon models of the Impulso (RC, Pro, and Comp) and Arcadex (Pro and Comp) families — both refreshed with new colorways — the brand introduces two new aluminum options designed to meet the needs of an ever-growing community of gravel enthusiasts: Arcadex AL and Via Nirone 7.
New Impulso colors
Impulso remains the benchmark in Bianchi’s gravel racing range. Born for speed and competition, it combines aerodynamic efficiency and lightweight performance. Its racing pedigree was recently confirmed by Nico Roche, UCI Gravel World Champion in the Master 40 category.
At the top of the family sits Impulso RC, alongside Impulso Pro and Impulso Comp. The Pro and Comp versions are now available in three new colourways: Terra with graphite details, Celeste with graphite details, and Grey with black details.
Impulso RC is also part of the Officina Bianchi project, which allows customization of top-tier road and gravel models through six exclusive finishes. Launched in 2025, Officina Bianchi offers an unprecedented level of personalization for Bianchi’s premium collection.
Arcadex expands it offering
Designed for adventure and to push beyond limits, Arcadex remains the ideal companion for those who love exploring off the beaten path. The range now expands with Arcadex AL, a premium aluminium model created for road cyclists or mountain bikers looking to discover the gravel experience.
Versatile and ready for any terrain, Arcadex AL handles single-track and asphalt alike with confidence. Its hydroformed aluminium frame delivers a clean, aerodynamic aesthetic, while the revised geometry accommodates tires up to 50 mm wide. Precision welding creates a seamless, monocoque-like finish, with semi-integrated cable routing and compatibility for a front suspension fork.
Arcadex AL also features mounting points for bags and accessories, adapting to the needs of riders who live cycling as exploration and adventure. It is available in three colourways: Turquoise with Celeste fork, Light Green with Forest Green fork, and a special launch edition in Burgundy Red with Coral Red fork.
The versatility of Via Nirone 7
Versatility and multi-surface capability define the new Via Nirone 7, designed for riders entering the world of all-road gravel and bikepacking.
The aluminium frame is completely redesigned and fully integrated, with a carbon fiber fork and compatibility for both 1x and 2x drivetrains. Via Nirone 7 is agile and adaptable — ideal for those looking to enjoy the thrill of gravel and off-road riding with a modern and accessible model.
Like Arcadex AL, it is also compatible with the new Bianchi integrated carbon handlebar, specifically designed for gravel use. Via Nirone 7 is available in Yellow Graphite and Celeste Graphite colorways.
For full details and pricing for their expanded gravel range, head over the Bianchi.com.
Thanks for checking us out this week. We promised a banger, with two Italian gravel bikes to bookend, we think we hit the mark. Fall is coming at us full bore now, and that means Christmas is headed our way. Keep checking Gear Break as we head toward November, as we intend to provide a few extras to treat your favorite cyclist (or, to coax your favorite other cyclist to treat you with!).
As always, if you have other experiences with gear or tech that we feature, or just something to add, drop us a line. We don’t claim to know everything (we just imply it at times). Feel free to give us a pat on the back if you like the reviews, or a smack if you think we need it!
PezCycling News and the author ask that you contact the manufacturers before using any products you see here. Only the manufacturer can provide accurate and complete information on proper/safe use, handling, maintenance, and or installation of products.
The post Gear Break: 3T Racemax², Campagnolo “Ultra”, Lezyne x Clik Valve, Reynolds Steps Up for CSS/F+B, Komoot and Garmin, Bianchi Gravel appeared first on PezCycling News.
