Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2
- Price: $4,100
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: 700×28c
- Gear: 2×11
What we like about it: The comfortable geometry, top-of-the-line kit for its price, and great looks.
What we don’t like about it: More ordinary tires in the same price range.
Rating (4.9/5)
Infinito is an Italian word that means “infinite”. The Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 is such a bike, suitable for “infinite” rides. The geometry is more comfortable than that of a race bike, and the higher headset allows for more relaxation in the shoulders and arms.
It is worth mentioning that the new Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 was re-customized by Bianchi and designed specifically for comfortable endurance racers. Thus, the Infinito XE comes in place of the former Intenso model. But this is not a renamed Intenso, despite having a very similar geometry. In fact, it comes from a completely new mold (the XE stands for Xtra Endurance, by the way).
Below we break down the Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 regarding road riding, long-distance riding, main features, components, specifications, and other versions.
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Road Riding
I often worry if the Bianchi Infinito XE-105 Di2 loses a lot of speed advantage because it’s a long-distance bike, as I see in the data that it uses compression discs.
My fears were overwhelming, and I often took it out on the roads around town to train in my free time. I felt the frame was stiff and light during pedaling, and the carbon allowed me to ride faster. So it’s still a bike for speed.
When I faced some steep climbs, the smaller gear ratios made the climbing fun. This is all something that a normal road bike does not have.
I found the Bianchi Infinito XE-105 Di2 to be very friendly when facing some bumpy roads. Does the Bianchi Infinito XE-105 Di2 lose speed by widening the tires from the normal 23C to 30C compared to a racing road bike? I don’t think so, it’s a good trade-off between speed and endurance.
Distance Riding
Our team tested its performance by riding the long distance from Lake Garda to the Adriatic Sea, which even included the circuit of the Giro d’Italia.
On these long, flat roads, the Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 can perform at its best. In comparison to that, the partner is riding a Bianchi Oltre XR4, which is also a good bike.
At the beginning of the ride, I didn’t feel the difference, we had the same fast travel speed. But after about 100km, my partner told me he felt sore, to which I said I didn’t feel that way. I think this was due to the raised head tube height and shorter Reach of the Bianchi Infinito XE-105 Di2, which allowed me to ride with a straight back. This is important for long rides.
I replaced the vacuum tires for it before this long ride. Although the original bike was not equipped with vacuum tires, the vacuum-compatible rims gave me the possibility to modify it. I was able to switch to vacuum tires for the long ride (even though it was more expensive) and was able to ride the entire route with confidence and without worrying about patching the tires.
Main Features
Frame
The frame of the new Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 is made of a different carbon. This means that Bianchi uses special carbon nanotechnology to place particles in the matrix, effectively avoiding cyclones and micro-cracks and maximizing the frame’s fracture resistance and life expectancy. Moreover, the whole bike is built with large tube diameters, so BAT (Bianchi Active Technology) together with K-VID technology (Kevlar Vibration Isolation Device) ensures excellent damping.
This may sound unreal and hard to get a feel for. In riding through my two-month-long ride, I felt the frame was stiff and strong.
Compared to regular road bikes, the Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 made me feel strong support during a few of my crazy sprints. And this seems to come from the frame joints, especially the bottom bracket part (with PF30), which has reinforced joints.
Geometry
The Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 was originally designed for long-distance riding. As I rode the Martesana Canal Bike Trail, the higher headset position allowed for a more relaxed shoulder and arm position. It is much more comfortable and has more stability than Bianchi’s Oltre XR4 aero road bike (one of the bikes reviewed at the same time).
In contrast, the smaller Reach (455mm) of the Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 instead gains a larger Stack (639mm), which means I can hold the handlebars in a more upright position. All of this means that when I’m on the Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2, my riding position is a little less stretched than on a traditional race bike, and more upright with a moderated level of aggression. This is thanks to a head tube angle of only 65°.
The large spacing between the bottom bracket and the center of the front tire allows for it to maintain stability and control at speed.
Components and Specifications
Shimano 105 Di2 Shifter
In the spec sheet, we find the Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 with a full Shimano 105 Di2 drivetrain, weighing only 2992 grams in its entirety. This is also due to the elimination of cables making it lighter and cleaner. It’s nice that electronic shifting is set to the 105 series, even though it only has 11 speeds. But the affordable price also allows it to be used on more affordable models.
You know Shimano 105 kit is what I have been using for a long time and this is loved by most cyclists. I started to learn to use electronic shifting, which makes my bike look much cleaner.
And the electronic shifting has a quick feel that the old cable couldn’t match. It’s so fast that I struggle with other cable shifts.
Shimano 105 Di2 Hydraulic Disc Brakes
The Shimano 105 kit is loved by all, and its hydraulic braking system is an excellent presence. While I was riding a long downhill section, the constant braking made the discs roll. But that didn’t make it the least bit less powerful.
The hydraulic shock absorption mode also improves its performance in every rainy day ride without slipping.
There is no doubt about Shimano’s quality. My last 105-component road bike kept me riding for up to 10 years and there was no damage to the components. On top of that, it’s so easy to maintain that you can get it repaired at any bike store around.
Fulcrum Racing 918 DB 2WF-R C19 Wheelset
Such a wheelset is available with tubeless tires. Although the stock car is equipped with open tires, the vacuum tire-compatible setup is great.
In previous reviews, the quality of this wheelset was moderate or even average because it was cheap compared to the components of the whole bike. However, I don’t think so. My long-distance tests brought me good feedback and no problems. While better tires would bring the performance up a notch, it would undoubtedly increase the price significantly.
Other versions of the Bianchi Infinito XE
In this review, we have reviewed the Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2, which has a comfortable enduro frame, an excellent electronic shifting package that outperforms its price range, and a great price/performance ratio. As you can see, this is a great enduro road bike.
At the same time, along with him, other kit versions of the Bianchi Infinito XE were launched. According to the data, they differ only in the overall components, including Shimano’s 105 electronics kit, Shimano’s Ultegra electronics kit, and SRAM’s components. The price point is different, giving us different component choices, which are all based on personal preference.
We reviewed other versions of the Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2. If you want to know more, feel free to continue.
Learn more: Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 review / Bianchi Infinito XE – Ultegra review / Bianchi Infinito XE – Rival eTap AXS review
What we like about it
- Athletic and comfortable riding position.
- Lightweight and stable frame are very balanced while riding.
- The excellent shifting and braking system gives me a very good feeling.
- The high 32mm tire accommodation width is more than adequate for gravel riding and light off-road.
- Very good value for money.
What we don’t like about it
- Compatible with vacuum tires, but the original car is only equipped with open tires and needs to be upgraded to achieve long-distance.
- Only two color options are available, all black and black and green.
FAQ
What kind of components does Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 use?
The Infinito XE is available in two different versions: the Shimano 105 Di2 model and the Shimano Ultegra version. Italian brand enthusiasts do not have Campagnolo as an option.
What kind of people does Bianchi Infinito XE-105 Di2 face?
The Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 is designed for the less extreme rider, allowing more people to experience the ultimate in endurance. While it may never be used for racing, Bianchi is serious about performance and aesthetics.
Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 is suitable for which height people?
The size chart for Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 is as follows.
(These sizes are just a general guide, the real right size may vary from person to person, and the easiest way to find your size is the best way to go for a test ride)
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 157cm – 164cm | 47 |
| 165cm – 172cm | 50 |
| 173cm – 180cm | 53 |
| 180cm – 187cm | 55 |
| 187cm – 194cm | 57 |
| 194cm – 201cm | 59 |
| 201cm – 206cm | 61 |
Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 Specs
Build
| Frame | Infinito XE Disc carbon, tapered HT 1.1/8″- 1.5″, Mechanical/Electronic Di2 shifting compatible, compatible with 32″ tire, PressFit 86,5x41mm BBset, thru-axle 12x142mm, sizes 47-50-53-55-57-59-61cm BB Standard: BB86/BB92, Press Fit Color: 5k – Celeste Ck16 / Black Full Glossy |
| Fork | Bianchi Full Carbon Disc, 1.5″ head, thru-axle 12x100mm, compatible with 32″ tire |
| Bottom Bracket | Shimano SM-BB72-41B, press fit for the road |
| Headset | Fsa NO.42/47CF/ACB/5D |
| Stem | Velomann, 3D Forged alloy 6061, rise +/ – 7°, height 38mm, Oversize, 1.1/8″, Ext: 70mm-47cm, 90mm-50cm, 100mm-53cm, 110mm-55cm, 120mm-57cm/61cm |
| Handlebar | Velomann Compact, Flat Top, alloy 6061 diam. 31,8mm, reach 80mm, drop 130mm, Size: 400mm-44/53cm, 420mm-55/59cm, 440mm-61cm |
| Saddle | Velomann rail steel black, open, cover PU, length/wide 250x148mm |
| Seatpost | Velomann alloy shaft 2014, head alloy 6061, hardware: Steel, Setback 25mm, size: 350mm-47/57cm; 380mm-59/61cm |
| Grips | La Spirale Ribbon cork |
Wheels
| Rims | Fulcrum Racing 918 DB 2WF-R C19, front HH12 – REAR 12/142 HG11 |
| Tires | Vittoria Zaffiro Pro V 700×28 |
| Disk Rotors | Shimano SM-RT70 rotor for disc brake center lock, S 160mm w/lock ring (2pcs) |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano 105 Di2 |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano 105, top gear 50-52T |
| Crank | Shimano 105, Ultegra hollowtech 2, 170-172,5-175mm, 50x34T, Crank Length: 170mm-47/53cm, 172.5mm-55/59cm, 175-61cm |
| Shifters | Shimano 105 Di2 hydraulic disc brake for road |
| Cassette | Shimano 105, 11-34T |
| Chain | Shimano 105, CN-M7100, 112link |
| Brakes | Included w/shifters |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Drivetrain | Brakes | Tires | Click View |
| Merida SCULTURA ENDURANCE 8000 | $5300 | 2×12 | Shimano Ultegra Hydro Disc | Continental Grand Prix 5000 TR, 700x32C | Click View |
| BMC Roadmachine ONE | $6000 | 2×12 | SHIMANO Ultegra RT-MT800 | VITTORIA RUBINO 700x28c | Click View |
| Ribble Endurance SL R Disc – Enthusiast, Shimano Ultegra Di2 | $5728 | 2×12 | Shimano Ultegra R8170 Flat Mount Hydraulic. | Continental Grand Prix 700x28c | Click View |
| Cervelo Caledonia-5 Rival eTap AXS | $6000 | 2×12 | SRAM Rival HRD | Vittoria Rubino Pro TLR G2.0 700x30c | Click View |
Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 VS Merida SCULTURA ENDURANCE 8000
Also as an endurance bike, we found the Merida SCULTURA ENDURANCE 8000 to be very good during the test. This is probably due to the advantage of its very light carbon rims, and the higher frame height that gives it speed retention.
On a variety of trail rides, their drivetrains gave me a completely indistinguishable experience, and even the Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 gave me a better feeling.
Viewing the data sheet made me realize that the Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 uses a mix-and-match the design of Shimano Ultergea and Shimano 105, while the Merida SCULTURA ENDURANCE 8000 uses a full set of Shimano Ulterge components. The mix and match is indeed a good design, which also allows the former to spend the cost on other accessories.
It is worth mentioning that the Merida SCULTURA ENDURANCE 8000 has an amazing 32c tire width. It is like a gravel road bike, the increased tire width will undoubtedly increase resistance, which is not friendly to long-distance riding.
Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 vs BMC Roadmachine ONE
The BMC Roadmachine ONE has a full carbon wheelset and a full set of Shimano Ultegea components, which are near the top of the range. The Bianchi Infinito XE, on the other hand, uses a mix of Shimano 105 components, and the difference is evident on long rides when a little goes a long way. So it’s too good for long-distance riding.
I have to say that the one thing that made me uncomfortable during the actual ride was the saddle on the BMC Roadmachine ONE. The Fizik Taiga saddle is like a racing saddle, long and stiff, and I hate it. The Velomann used in the Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 is much more comfortable to sit on.
Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 vs Ribble Endurance SL R Disc – Enthusiast, Shimano Ultegra Di2
Ribble is known to be a good brand for the money and is all kitted out with Shimano Ultegra. This is very good.
But while riding we found that it is not very suitable for long-distance riding. Because its Stack is so short and the head tube height is so low that it feels like a pneumatic bicycle when I ride it. This goes against its positioning.
In comparison, the Bianchi Infinito XE-105 Di2 has a comfortable riding geometry, which is very important when looking at long-distance riding. It is more important than any component or tire. This is most intuitively felt on long rides.
Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 vs Cervelo Caledonia-5 Rival eTap AXS
The Shimano is softer and smoother and feels lighter, while the SRAM is like a machine gun with a very mechanical “click-click” sound. I have to say it depends on who you like the feel of the shifting.
The Cervelo Caledonia-5 Rival eTap AXS full carbon handlebars gave me great shock absorption while riding. It’s not a good thing to have numb hands on long rides. But in practice, the Bianchi Infinito XE-105 Di2’s handlebars don’t give me any discomfort either.
Overall, the Bianchi Infinito XE – 105 Di2 has good value for money. Its $4,000 price tag isn’t too far off from a few bikes around $6,000, which says it’s good enough. The small gap in components alone can be made up with subsequent upgrades.
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