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Christian Allmendinger

For climbers and summiteers

The summer of 2020 is just around the corner, temperatures already steadily well over 20°C. For those who are already itching for fast rides on skinny tires, STEVENS offers three attractive options, all of which interpret the theme of "racing machine for summiteers" in very unique ways.

The 2360 m high Col d'Izoard has repeatedly served as a spectacular backdrop in the history of the Tour de France - the last time in 2019 as part of the queen stage. It is therefore only logical that its name adorns three STEVENS racing bikes: The Izoard Pro Disc, the Izoard Pro and the Izoard Disc. Clearly aimed at ambitious cyclists as these climbing machines are drawn to the mountains to collect altitude meters, test their strength on steep inclines and prove their steering and braking skills on fast descents. But despite the similarity of their names, each of the Izoard trio possesses very different characteristics. It is therefore key to identify your unique needs and demands so you choose the right bike. Here are some useful tips to get you started:

Ideal balance

Carbon is a material that can be used to reconcile seemingly contradictory properties such as comfort vs stiffness. The rear triangle of all three Izoard versions is comfortably compliant thanks to the extra slim seatstays. Yet, these bikes offer maximum steering precision and stiffness for stomping on the pedals due to the voluminous bottom bracket area and "tapered" head tube (from 1 1/8" to 1 ½" below) of the main frame. These carbon racers are therefore recommended for athletes who ride with high power and/or are close to the maximum weight limit (115 kg).

Classic vs. Hydraulic

While many Tour de France pros have already converted to hydraulic disc brakes, it certainly does not mean that the tried and true cable pull rim brakes belong in a museum. And certainly not if they are as compact and rigidly constructed as the biting Shimano Ultegra stoppers. For lightweight enthusiasts, there simply is no other option - the weight advantage of the Izoard Pro over its "Disc" brothers is too clear for them.
Security fetishists and lovers of alpine mountain stages, on the other hand, rightly swear by modern disc brakes that can be perfectly modulated before every hairpin bend - even in adverse weather and road conditions. However, thru axles on the fork and frame are an absolute must, because only these guarantee optimum rigidity and precise rotor positioning (to avoid unwanted noise).

Ultegra vs. 105

If you choose advanced carbon material for the frame, you can also go that extra mile for the rest of the equipment and opt for a complete Shimano Ultegra group. It sits just behind Dura-Ace, the professional groupset, by a mere few nuances. Riders of the Ultegra-equipped Izoard Pro Disc and Izoard Pro bikes will certainly enjoy its top workmanship and noticeable weight advantages.
On the Izoard Disc, a complete Shimano 105 group nicely does its job – straight up to the hydraulic disc brakes. The "workhorse" in the Shimano model range shines with its strong price/performance ratio and high durability. In all three cases, the drive configuration adheres to the catchphrase "semi-compact", with its 52 and 36 teeth rings at the front and 11-32 teeth cassette. This outstanding ratio range welcomes all mountains to come its way – especially with the purposefully chosen legendary name of "Izoard".

If you are still undecided after reading these tips, you can use the "Compare bikes" feature (see button at the top of the menu bar). There you can view all differences between the three STEVENS Izoard models - Pro Disc, Pro and Disc - down to the smallest detail to help make your purchase decision. For your convenience, here are the highlights and most important key details:

IZOARD DISC – For those ready to take the next step.

  • Pro-level "disc only" carbon frame
  • Complete Shimano 105 groupset w/ 2x11-speed semi-compact drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes
  • Pressfit bottom bracket and internal cable routing
  • Full carbon fork with tapered steerer
  • Lightweight Fulcrum disc wheelset plus proven Continental Grand Sport Race tires (25 mm)

The STEVENS Izoard Disc is available from authorized retailers – in the color Polar Petrol and in the sizes 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60 and 62 centimeters.

Click here for the STEVENS Izoard Disc

IZOARD PRO – Our mountain goat.

  • Pro-level carbon frame
  • Pressfit bottom bracket and internal cable routing
  • Full carbon fork with tapered steerer
  • Full Shimano Ultegra groupset w/ semi-compact crank
  • Lightweight Fulcrum wheelset plus proven Continental Grand Prix tires (25 mm) )

The STEVENS Izoard Pro is available from authorized retailers – in the color Slate Grey and in the sizes 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60 and 62 centimeters.

Click here for the STEVENS Izoard Pro

IZOARD PRO DISC – A modern classic.

  • Performance oriented carbon disc frame & fork w/ QR12 thru-axles
  • Stable yet responsive steering characteristics – perfect for conquering alpine passes
  • Complete Shimano Ultegra 2x11-speed semi-compact drivetrain
  • Powerful Shimano Ultegra Flatmount disc brakes
  • Fulcrum Racing 600 DB wheelset

The STEVENS Izoard Pro Disc is available from authorized retailers – in the color Velvet Black and in the sizes 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60 and 62 centimeters.

Click here for the STEVENS Izoard Pro Disc

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