The Exploro Team Frameset is deeply informed by aero road and pure gravel influences but is no hybrid, it's a truly and fully integrated design, and maximized to deliver aero performance, power transfer and versatility- all keys to the Speed Team bike concept. The fork and frame were optimized for the aerodynamic realities of larger volume tires, so you have a square-aero (Sqaero) shape down tube with a 50mm cross section, with an arc-shape leading edge and the now common flat-back design. Air carrying off the wheel to the downtube, which manages the airflow as efficiently as possible, guiding it as easily as possible around water bottles and the seattube. The seattube has similar shape, but with a 25mm width, as it needs to do less to move the air back after it has been directed by downtube. The fork blades have slim aero shape, and the remaining tubes and junctions use Sqaero forms as well, but the management of the airflow off the leading edge is the crucial element.

A single ring (1x) drivetrain decreases the turbulent airflow through what is normally the front derailleur zone, and clearly 3T would prefer you move in that direction, but unlike with the 3T Strada Road frame, the Exploro provides a removable front derailleur mount. The FlipTop internal cable/housing routing system (for mechanical or electronic, and hydraulic) is clean, and fairly straightforward. Every detail has been carefully considered and addressed. 3T even includes a foam sleeve for the downtube routing to prevent any rattling. The frameset maintains smooth profiles throughout. It features a well designed 12/142mm thru-axle system, with a Syntace model included. The bottom bracket shell is for the FSA BB386EVO system.

The shaped 3T Charlie Sqaero seatpost is Exploro specific, and has a zero-offset clamp set-up. Vroomen has given the seattube a 72.5mm angle, which assists in rear triangle spec. Overall riding geometry is much more like an endurance road bike with a relatively short headtube and a more compact chainstay length (rear center) at 415mm than most gravel bikes. A dropped driveside chainstay keeps the Q-factor at a standard road width, and clearance for more gearing options. The fork rake is 50mm, giving the Exploro Team tracking and stability up front on rough surfaces. The geometry feels balanced and sure handling on every surface, with impressive acceleration, real speed, road feel and cornering capability.... Read More