Pushing the Boundaries of Gravel Bike Performance: A Superbike Build for the Masters Nationals

In a quest to conquer the Masters Gravel National Championships, one writer embarked on a journey to create the ultimate gravel race machine. Blending cutting-edge technology, aerodynamic optimization, and a relentless pursuit of marginal gains, this article takes readers behind the scenes of a superbike build that aims to redefine the limits of gravel bike performance.

Unlocking the Potential of Gravel Bike Technology

Embracing the Aero Advantage

While the slower speeds and rougher terrain of gravel racing may seem to diminish the importance of aerodynamics, the writer firmly believes that technology can still play a crucial role in enhancing performance. Drawing inspiration from the work of industry pioneers like Dan Bigham and Dylan Johnson, the writer set out to create a gravel bike that would seamlessly integrate aerodynamic optimization with other key considerations, such as rolling resistance, grip, handling, and gearing.

Balancing Lightweight and Aero Efficiency

The search for the perfect gravel race bike led the writer to the Ridley ASTR RS, a brand-new, unreleased model that boasted an aero frame, a lightweight construction, and the ability to accommodate wide tires up to 52mm. This frame, with its 890g weight and 36cm handlebars, provided the ideal starting point for the writer's superbike build, offering a blend of aerodynamics, racy geometry, and versatility.

Harnessing the Power of SRAM's Gravel-Specific Groupset

Fortuitous timing played a role in the writer's component selection, as the launch of SRAM's new Red XPLR AXS groupset coincided with the planning of this project. The 1x13 drivetrain, with its gravel-specific features like the Full Mount UDH rear derailleur mount and the "Magic Pulley Wheel," made it an easy choice to pair with the Ridley frame.

Maximizing Rolling Efficiency with Zipp's Wide Gravel Wheels

Complementing the SRAM groupset, the writer opted for Zipp's 303 XPLR SW wheels, which boast an impressive 32mm internal width. This allowed for the use of wider tires, which can significantly improve rolling resistance and grip on the varied terrain of gravel races. The writer's initial tyre choice, the Goodyear XPLR Inter, was ultimately swapped for the Schwalbe G One R due to course conditions, but the wider rim still provided a seamless transition to the sidewall.

Reducing Friction with CeramicSpeed Components

No superbike build would be complete without the addition of CeramicSpeed components, and the writer did not disappoint. A CeramicSpeed bottom bracket and UFO chain were installed, promising to deliver a noticeable reduction in friction and a tangible performance boost.

Optimizing Aerodynamics with Apidura Bags

While not available in time for the Masters Nationals, the writer later incorporated a set of Apidura bags designed specifically for the Ridley ASTR RS frame. These bags, which fill the space behind the head tube and on the top tube, are said to be worth 2.6 watts at the winning average speed of Unbound 2024, further enhancing the bike's aerodynamic efficiency.

Exploring Future Possibilities

With a goal of qualifying for the World Championships in 2025, the writer's mind is already buzzing with ideas for the next iteration of this superbike build. Possibilities include experimenting with wider 2.2-inch tires, exploring the use of Speeco's ABB handlebars, or even integrating Classified's wireless shifting system. The pursuit of performance optimization never ends, and the writer is eager to continue pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the world of gravel bike technology.