Since 1906 Wilier has been inspiring the cycling world with their outstanding Italian craftsmanship – and the Superleggera SL is a tribute to their own history. Can the shiny steel beauty and its state-of-the-art spec compete with the latest generation of pro peloton bikes? With its price of € 6,600, the Wilier is already one step ahead.
For an overview of the test fleet head to the main article: What’s the best road bike of 2018? – 12 race bikes put to the test
The Wilier Superleggera SL literally shines with its classic Romata copper finish and Campagnolo’s modern component blend. The latest generation of Campagnolo Record, a Campagnolo Shamal Mille wheelset, Cinelli Giro d’Italia handlebars and quill stem, a threaded Campagnolo Record headset, and the new Vittoria Rubino Pro G+ tires create a wholesome blend of modern performance and appreciation for tradition. The Selle San Marco Rolls saddle sports a blingy gold-plated metal band that rounds off the “Bella Italia” fête. Only the Ritchey Classic seatpost doesn’t entirely blend in with the “Made in Italy” concept of the Superleggera, but it still suits the overall look. With a weight of 8.55 kg in size M, the Wilier is the heaviest bike in our test, but the € 6,600 price tag gets you an authentic steel beauty – one that will turn heads. It was certainly the bike that got the most attention during all of our coffee stops!
Handlebar with more modern/ergonomic shape
Jump on and feel good – that’s probably the best way of describing the initial feeling you get from riding the Wilier. The steel frame offers an exceptional level of comfort that is second to none. It makes you feel like the heroes of the Giro d’Italia, mainly because of the many beautiful details like the engravings on the frame and fork. On long climbs, however, you start noticing the weight of the Superleggera – but if you pedal at a high cadence you’ll still be able to climb well. When riding at a lower cadence, sprinting, or putting lots of pressure on the pedals, you can feel the bottom bracket flexing. However, the extraordinary level of comfort and the sheer style of the Wilier will keep you smiling all day long.
On descents, the Wilier impressed us with its confidence-inspiring handling and an surprisingly big sense of control. The overall package is superb and includes the super-direct Campagnolo Shamal Mille wheelset, grippy Vittoria Rubino Pro tires, and of course a very comfortable frame. This last one flattens out the irregularities of the tarmac and even left behind some of its modern carbon competitors in the GRAN FONDO timing session. We were also very impressed with Campagnolo’s braking performance.
Their Record brakes offer great modulation, while the brake track of the Shamal Mille wheels helps to deliver excellent braking performance even in wet conditions. In terms of comfort, the only drawback is the classic handlebar shape, which takes some getting used to and is a little uncomfortable when braking. A more modern, ergonomic handlebar design would work better and harmonise with the Campagnolo brake levers.
The Wilier Superleggera SL is the perfect series bike for those who want an Italian steel frame.
The Wilier Superleggera in detail
Drivetrain Campagnolo Record
Wheelset Campagnolo Shamal Mille
Brakes Campagnolo Record Rim
Tires Vitorra Rubino Pro
Weight 8.55 kg
Price € 6,600
The geometry of the Wilier Superleggera
Conclusion
The Wilier Superleggera SL is the perfect series bike for those who want an Italian steel frame with a great mix of classic style and modern performance to tackle long-distance rides. With its unique look, the Superleggera stands out in our test field and inspires with outstanding downhill credentials. If you’re not just after fast lap times, but also like having fun, the € 6,600 Superleggera SL will get you shed loads of style and performance at an interesting price. The Wilier follows a classic motto: “I don’t ride a bike to add days to my life. I ride a bike to add life to my days.” A well-deserved café racer-style win of the Best Value bike!
Top
– Classic frame shape and details (engravings, fork)
– Wheelset with top braking performance
– Comfort
Flop
– Frame flexes in sprints and with a lot of pressure on the pedals
– Classic handlebar, not ergonomic
Uphill
Downhill
Sprint
For more info head to: wilier.com
For an overview of the test fleet head to the main article: What’s the best road bike of 2018? – 12 race bikes put to the test
All bikes in the test: 3T Strada | BMC Teammachine SLR 01 Disc Team | Canyon Aeroad CF SLX Disc 9.0 Di2 | Corratec EVO eTap Konfi | Fuji SL 1.1 | Rose X-Lite 6 eTap | Scott Addict RC Ultimate Disc | Specialized S-Works Tarmac 2018 | Speedvagen Road | Standert Triebwerk Mach 3 | Trek Emonda SLR 8 Disc
This article is from GRAN FONDO issue #008
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Words: Manuel Buck, Robin Schmitt, Benjamin Topf Photos: Valentin Rühl
