KTM X-Strada in the Elite version It's a bike that can cover the many needs of gravel riders, whether they're competitive or a traveler. And then there's that quality-price ratio, which is really eccellenteThe price list is 3.399 euros.
The new X-Strada platform was launched at the end of 2021, an interesting project capable of covering gravel racing, bikepacking, and even cyclocross. Let's take a closer look at the Elite version.
Lots of substance first of all
It is one of the peculiarities of the KTM bicycles of all categories and levels, that is, a substantial heart that is based on the Premium carbon, efficient setups and even geometries that are never extreme.
The Elite trim of the X-Strada It is a clear example of this and reflects the versatility of a platform that has the task of covering different interpretations.
It's a bike that he doesn't disdain competition and that gravel race that's been talked about so much lately. Yet his predispositions are shaped by the journey; therefore luggage racks, bags and mudguards. This is also why the geometry of the KTM X Strada, regardless of size, is a kind of endurance, capable of exploiting the right compromise between an optimal horizontal extension and a more upright position.
How it is assembled
We start from one frame-kit with Premium carbon monocoque frameThe matrix is the same as the one used for road bikes, but with different applications, obviously aimed at the gravel segment. Even the fork (F14) is full carbon, but uses the Performance module, less sophisticated than the previous one and quite substantial. At first glance it looks like an aero fork and borrows part of its design from the one used on the road Lisse and Revelator Alto (older version).
The front and rear axles have ample clearance for the tyres. The entire steering area is technically useful and beautiful to look at., with the sheaths hidden inside it by passing through the striking ring.
Mechanical transmission
The transmission is mechanical, remembering that there is complete compatibility with electromechanical gearboxes and that the double front plateau can also be mounted. The version photographed at Misano is aggressive and is the 2023 one. There is the Shimano GRX with a mono in front and 11 gears in the rear, but with a long rocker arm that allows you to fit sprockets normally used in mountain bikes.
There is the KTM aluminum handlebar compartment and there are the Mavic all-road wheels (with Continental tires), also with alloy rims and specific for gravel. The saddle is by Selle San Marco.
This version is also compatible with any 27,2 diameter dropper posts, solution used by Samparisi on the “old one”.
