Colnago launch new CLX 3.0 road bike

Colnago have updated their CLX road frame for 2012 to the point that they’re describing it as a completely new design – the CLX 3.0.

The front triangle is a carbon monocoque with the head tube using Colnago’s C-HS1 headset system – a semi-integrated headset with a 1 1/8in bearing at the top and 1 1/4in at the bottom for extra front end rigidity and steering stability. The C-HS1 is easy to maintain without removing the whole of the headset.

The CLX 3.0 gets new squared chainstays which Colnago say adds stiffness and efficiency over the previous incarnation, and a straight-legged fork up front that’s also brand spanking new. The rear brake cable is routed through the top tube although the gear cables remain external… except on the Ultegra Di2 model where the wires run inside.

Colnago retain a slight clover shape profile on the down tube although, to be honest, it’s so subtle you only really notice it if you’re looking for it. Still, it’s a signature feature and they’re sticking with it.

The CLX 3.0 will be available in several different builds. That Ultegra Di2 version gets a Deda cockpit and Shimano RS30 wheels. There’s another version with a mechanical Ultegra groupset, a SRAM Force build and a Shimano 105 model. There’s no Campag option, though. It’s available in a whole bunch of different colours to match your eyes/shoes and in eight different sizes.

One other thing. Colnago are pretty famous for slapping their name all over their bikes. If there’s a space, they whack a logo on there. But even by Colnago’s standards, the CLX 3.0 is big on names thanks to a panel on the top tube that's chock-full of loads of 'em. We lost count at 50. If you’ve got a good name, you might as well make the most of it.

All the details are on www.colnago.com.