Imperiale

AERODYNAMIC FEATURES THAT DRAW FROM "THE CRONO"
The flowing lines and dramatic forms that enable the Imperiale to manage airflow have been designed around our road bike geometry that has made the ride of our bikes legendary and nsurpassed. The combination of the right tubing shapes and directional carbon fiber layup orientations made it possible to reduce frontal area, effectively direct airflow and ensure optimal lateral rigidity. The reinforced construction at strategic points along the Imperiale’s tubing, fork and rear triangle have made it possible to attain ideal frame stiffness characteristics while reducing weight. As always, we have partnered with the most renowned materials and performance experts to create another of the world’s most advanced bikes.

Internationally acclaimed aerodynamics expert John Cobb, who designed our cutting-edge Tri-Crono time trial bike, was a trusted advisor throughout the development of the Imperiale. With the principles of aerodynamics guiding many aspects of the Imperiale’s design, our award-winning Cento1 influenced considerations that would contribute to ride quality, including a new aerodynamic, integrated seatmast.
The Imperiale boasts the same bottom bracket design concept as the Cento1: reinforced, oversize dimensions and fuller integration of prominent industry standard cranksets. The rear triangle, on the other hand, is comprised of two monocoque elements: the seat stays are joined at the aerodynamic seat tube that directs airflow around and past the rear wheel, maximizing stability and contributing to the bike’s distinctive look.

Meanwhile, the outer form of the bottom bracket has been influenced by the latest findings in aerodynamics research: the Imperiale’s chain stays are joined to the underside of the bottom bracket, forming two "splitters". Both the fork and rear dropouts have been redesigned for enhanced aerodynamics. The head tube is reinforced for strength and, along with the fork crown, is shaped to reduce drag; their combined profile forms a minimalist frontal area that slices through the air. The unmistakably unique downtube boasts the same innovative air management qualities of our Crono series and is yet another feature that sets us apart.