Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2 Review
- Price: $9,100
- Category: Pneumatic Bicycle
- Tire: 622X19c
- Drivetrain: 2X12 Electric
What we like about it: The aerodynamic geometry with a sturdy frame and agile performance gives you a comfortable ride.
What we don’t like about it: The overpriced price makes it unaffordable for most people.
Rating (4.8/5)
As a famous Italian bike brand, Bianchi has always produced bikes with good reviews. This time the Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2 is an excellent aero bike.
Firstly, the bodywork is designed to be more aerodynamic, giving you a speedy experience during the ride. Secondly, the frame made of carbon material gives it excellent sturdiness, as well as hydraulic disc brakes, thus providing great stability and braking ability.
Next, let us introduce you to the Bianchi Oltre XR4 aero bike in detail. We’ll start with its climbing, descending, general riding, main features, and main components. If you want to learn more about the bike, feel free to follow us and we will keep you updated.
Bianchi Oltre XR4 Climbing Review
When I first got into this bike, I was a little concerned about its uphill performance. Because a lot of the time, aero bikes focus more on stability at speed and are usually slightly heavier in weight than other climbing bikes for aero bikes. But in my actual riding, the weight difference was not as big as I thought it would be. Because the weight of the bike is only an issue worth noting when you are climbing very slowly.
The location chosen for this test was a mountain road, and we started the ride at the bottom of the hill. The steep seat tube angle of this bike made my back bend even more, and the aerodynamic design put me way ahead on the gentle sections at the bottom of the hill.
When it starts to climb a hill, the bike is equipped with a 12-speed electronic drivetrain that responds quickly and instantly adjusts to the right gear. This rapid gear change capability is not possible with other common drivetrains.
As we rode halfway up the mountain, the road became a little more gradual and that’s when the 2X12 gearing showed its effectiveness. More gearing options allowed me to tackle different terrain and gave me a very good riding experience.
Bianchi Oltre XR4 Downhill Review
This Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2 gave me an equally good experience on the downhill. Once we reached the top of the hill, we took a short break and started the descent.
On the downhill, I held it on the grip made of fiber tape, and the soft touch had a good anti-vibration effect. And it has excellent straight-line handling on the downhill, which allows me to descend very steadily.
Worth mentioning is its equally excellent braking ability, which moreover provides excellent solid grip and braking control. During the descent, I needed to control the brakes at all times as the speed got faster and faster. Even with such intense use, this Ultegra hydraulic braking system continued to respond quickly. This greatly increased my trust in it, so much so that I kept riding at high speed, leaving my fellow riders far behind.
In addition to this mountain road ride, we also conducted a few more tests later on. This time it was tested for its fast cornering ability. When faced with a fast corner, not only does the rider need to react quickly in a short period, but also the bike needs to be able to respond quickly. This Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2 performed to my satisfaction during the test. I confidently started to steer at the top of the corner and it responded just as quickly and was able to stay stable.
Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2 General Riding Review
As an aero bike, the experience on the road ride is undoubtedly comfortable.
When I was on the road, I still had a precise sprint with no braking friction. This is due to the rigid nature of its tubular shape and the overall frame design, which keeps the flex of the frame at an insignificant level.
At the same time, it has adopted Countervail technology in the frame. This technology, by combining specific carbons with viscoelastic resin, effectively eliminates vibrations on the road and can prevent fatigue. When I rode for three hours, it still felt comfortable and I was always able to maintain an aerodynamic position.
I can say that this aero bike is very good on the road. I enjoyed my time riding on the road and it made me feel very comfortable.
Components and Specifications
Frame Group
I have to say that this time Bianchi has added two more paint schemes, graphite gray, and frozen white, to their classic celeste green paint scheme. These beautiful colors made me gain a lot of eyes while riding.
For material selection, Bianchi used Countervail frame technology, which uses a viscoelastic material injected into carbon stacks at various high-vibration locations on the frame. Compared to traditional carbon frames, the Countervail stack design reduces vibration by 80%. This makes you more comfortable on long rides.
Also, every tube on the frame is designed with airflow in mind. From the hourglass head tube to the oval downtube, allowing the Bianchi Oltre XR4 to be ridden with minimal turbulence caused by the air around the frame.
And, you won’t see stray external cables. Because of the internal cable routing, the cables are cleverly routed through the headphone holes to give you a very clean look.
Geometry
I don’t know what your opinion is on geometry, but for me, great geometry provides an even better riding experience. And the geometry of this Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2 fits my requirements perfectly.
First is its low stack height of 541mm and long 550mm top tube. This puts you in a lower position and helps you get the power to the pedals more efficiently.
Secondly, the steep head tube angle (72.5°) provides fast responsive steering for more responsive cornering.
Finally, the same steep seat tube angle (73.5°) will allow you to ride with a deeper, more aerodynamic bend as a way to get faster.
Components and Specifications
Shimano Ultegra Di2 12sp Drivetrain
The Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2 uses a top-of-the-line drivetrain. The 12 speeds on the Shimano Ultegra Di2 allow you to climb, sprint or cruise without having to stop and think during gear changes.
Also, with larger gears, it can maximize efficiency and acceleration performance. And when you shift at maximum pedaling force, you can shift faster and smoother.
One more thing, the wireless disc shifter makes for a cleaner cockpit. Crucially, for the first time, it is purely electronic, with no mechanical options. This also means more intelligence.
Shimano Hydraulic Disc Brakes
The Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2 uses Shimano Hydraulic disc for its brake selection. it uses Shimano hydraulic mineral oil, which gives it a more reliable braking ability. It is also more responsive in the braking process.
At the same time, it has a pad gap width of only 40%. This can effectively reduce the clicking sound of the strike pad so that you can ride with less noise.
And, this Shimano hydraulic disc brake can be matched to a wide range of bike styles to adjust braking power for entry-level riders.
Pirelli P ZERO™ Race Tires
It has to be said that the Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2 uses the same high-end tires in terms of tire choice. This is because the P ZERO™ Race tires combine the advantages of inner tube technology to improve puncture resistance without compromising the overall weight of the tire.
And the special SmartEVO composite material increases its grip on wet and dry asphalt surfaces, making it more stable and faster during the ride.
Other versions of Bianchi Oltre XR
As an aero bike of the same series, Bianchi Oltre XR4 can be said to be an upgrade of the Bianchi Oltre XR3.
First of all, the Bianchi Oltre XR3 uses a 2X11 electronic drivetrain in its drivetrain. It has fewer gearshift options than the Bianchi Oltre XR4.
Secondly, on the saddle, the Bianchi Oltre XR4 is upgraded with a nylon carbon-reinforced shell, making the ride more comfortable.
Finally, on the grip, microfiber tape is used, which has an anti-vibration effect.
We have reviewed other versions of the Bianchi Oltre XR, so stay tuned if you want to learn more.
Learnmore:Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Red eTap AXS review
Learnmore:Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Rival eTap AXS review
What we like about it
- High-end parts configuration
- Perfect geometry design brings the ultimate riding experience
- 2X12 electronic drivetrain system allows you to have faster and more accurate shifts
- Shimano hydraulic disc brakes provide effective braking power
- Pirelli P ZERO™ Race tires give you more stability on your ride
What we don’t like about it
- Overly high-end components make it not cheap in terms of price
FAQ
- Bianchi Oltre XR4 – What is the drivetrain of the Ultegra Di2?
The Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2 has a Shimano Ultegra Di2 12sp drivetrain.
- What are the tires on the Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2?
The tires on the Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2 are the Pirelli P ZERO™ Race.
- What are the brakes on the Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2?
The Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2 has Shimano Hydraulic disc brakes.
- Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2 size chart
| size | Rider height |
| 47CM | 157 – 164 CM |
| 50CM | 165 – 172 CM |
| 53CM | 173 – 180 CM |
| 55CM | 180 – 187 CM |
| 57CM | 187 – 194 CM |
| 59CM | 194 – 201 CM |
| 61CM | 201 – 206 CM |
Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2 Specs
Build
| Frame | Oltre XR4 carbon w/Bianchi CV, mechanical/electronic shifting compatible, headset 1.5″, PressFit 86,5x41mm BB, Disc brake internal cable routing, flat mount caliper, thru-axle 12x142mm, size 47-50-53-55-57-59-61cm BB Standard: BB86/BB92, 86mm, Press Fit Colors: Xb – Graphite Race / Grey Shade Matt + Metal Mirror Logo Glossy; Xc – Graphite Race / Celeste Ck16 Shade + White Logo Full Glossy; Xw – Frozen White / Celeste Ck16 Shade |
| Fork | Bianchi Full Carbon w/Bianchi CV, 1.5″ integrated head, Disc Brake internal cable, flat mount caliper, thru-axle 12x100mm |
| Bottom Bracket | Shimano SM-BB72-41B |
| Headset | Fsa Orbit custom 5D ACR top cover UD Carbon, lower 1.5″- top 1 .5″, 36°- 45° ACB bearing, w/Carbon custom cone spacer specific for Metron DISC integrated handlebar, for 52mm/52mm OD head tube |
| Stem | Reparto Corse by Vision Metron 5D ACR Disc Integrated Aero bar, Bar/stem Integrated, material UD Weave Carbon, drop 125mm, reach 80mm, Di2 compatible, RC ’21 graphics, Ext: 100x400mm-47/50cm, 110x420mm-53/55cm, 120x420mm-57/59cm, 130x440mm-61cm |
| Handlebar | included in the stem |
| Saddle | Fi’zi:k Argo Vento R3, nylon carbon reinforced shell w/WingFlex, K:ium rails, 260x140mm |
| Seatpost | Reparto Corse Full Carbon Aero special dimension; special Clamp type with alloy head adjustable and reversible +/- 35mm; lenght: 250mm-47cm, 300mm-50/ 53cm, 350mm-55/59cm, 380-61cm, Setback: 25mm/+10mm |
| Grips | Black soft Microfiber tapes w/shockproof Eva-139 |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Ultegra Di2 12sp |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Ultegra Di2 12sp |
| Crank | Shimano Ultegra hollowtech 2, 50x34T w/o BB parts, Crank Length: 170mm-47/53cm, 172.5mm-55/59cm, 175mm-61cm |
| Shifters | Shimano Ultegra Di2 12sp hydraulic disc brake for road |
| Cassette | Shimano Ultegra Di2 12sp, 11-30T |
| Chain | Shimano Ultegra Di2 12sp |
| Brakes | Shimano Hydraulic disc brake, included in the shifter |
| Brake Levers | Included w/shifters |
Wheels
| Rims | Fulcrum Racing 400 disc brake, 622x19c, 2 WAY FIT tubeless ready |
| Tires | Pirelli P ZERO™ Race, 26-622, 127TPI, Aramid breaker |
| Disk Rotors | Shimano SM-RT800 Center Lock, diam. 160mm |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Drivetrain | Brakes | Tires | Click view |
| BMC Timemachine Road 01 TWO | $7999 | 2×12 electronic | SHIMANO Ultegra RT-MT800hydraulic disc | 700x25c | Click View |
| Trek Madone SL 7 | $7999 | 2×12 electronic | Hydraulic Disc | 700x32c | Click View |
| Canyon Aeroad CF SLX 8 Disc eTap | $7499 | 2×12 electronic | Continental Grand Prixhydraulic disc | 700X28c | Click View |
| Cannondale SystemSix Hi-MOD Ultegra Di2 | $ 8050 | 2×12 electronic | Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8170 hydraulic disc | 700X25c | Click View |
Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2 vs BMC Timemachine Road 01 TWO
As an aero bike with the same high-end components, the BMC Timemachine Road 01 TWO is comparable in configuration to the Bianchi Oltre XR4- Ultegra Di2.
They use the Shimano Ultegra series for the derailleurs, cranks, cassettes, and chains. The difference is in their geometry design.
The BMC Timemachine Road 01 TWO has a higher standing height, which may be a little inconvenient for some people who are not tall enough to park and wait.
I still prefer the design of the Bianchi Oltre XR4- Ultegra Di2. Maybe it’s because it gives me a more comfortable feeling during the ride.
learn more：BMC Timemachine ROAD 01 THREE Review – The “Time Machine” That Gets You To The Finish Line Faster
Bianchi Oltre XR4 vs Trek Madone SL 7
As the aero bike from Trek, the Trek Madone SL 7 combines advanced aerodynamic performance with premium ride quality. It uses Shimano’s new wireless Ultegra Di2 electronic drivetrain, so it can shift quickly and accurately.
Of course, these advantages are also present in the Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2. Although it is a little more expensive, you can have full confidence in its quality as a well-known Italian brand with a long history.
learn more：Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap Gen 7 Review – The Championship Choice That Will Take You To The Top
Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2 vs Canyon Aeroad CF SLX 8 Disc eTap
Unlike the Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2, the Canyon Aeroad CF SLX 8 Disc eTap uses components from the Force eTap series. The choice on the crank is the SRAM ForceD1 AXS power meter with Quarq integrated power measurement technology and a one-piece sprocket design to effectively reduce weight.
However, the Bianchi Oltre XR4 comes with soft black microfiber tape that gives you shock protection while riding.
We all noticed this during the actual ride as well. It gives me a better feeling.
If you’re looking for better technology, then you can go for the Canyon Aeroad CF SLX 8 Disc eTap, and if you want a better riding experience, then the Bianchi Oltre XR4 is the way to go.
learn more：Canyon Aeroad CF SL 7 WMN Disc Review – Turning Air Resistance Against You Into Power
Bianchi Oltre XR4 VS Cannondale SystemSix Hi-MOD Ultegra Di2
To be honest, we don’t have a good recommendation for comparing these two bikes. Because both are high-end aero bikes, both have a 2X12 electronic drivetrain. And both have the same choice in Groupset kits, both are Ultegra Di2 series.
We carefully compared the two bikes while riding them in the field. I am more comfortable with the Bianchi Oltre XR4. And in terms of color, I prefer Bianchi’s paint scheme.
Also, as a loyal Bianchi fan, I would choose this Bianchi Oltre XR4 – Ultegra Di2.
In case, the above comments are helpful to you, please remember to share the subscription. Have a great day!
Cannondale SystemSix Hi-MOD Ultegra Di2 Review – The Ultimate, Easy-To-Handle Aero Bike
