Every year, the Tour de France is the best time of the year to appreciate racing bikes. Major manufacturers release new bikes just before the race, and star riders showcase custom paint jobs, making it a vibrant display. In today’s carbon fiber industry, where innovation is becoming increasingly challenging, this year’s new bikes have introduced some fresh trends, such as improvements in detail and integration.
Let’s take a look at the racing bikes prepared by the 22 participating teams!
AG2R La Mondiale
Road Race – Factor O2
Time Trial – Factor Slick
This veteran French team has changed bike sponsors this year from the German brand Focus to the British brand Factor, but the design style remains consistent with last year. Factor’s product line is quite simple, with only 2.5 models available for the road race, and AG2R is solely focused on climbing bikes. Compared to the Factor One/One-S with its down tube cutout, the O2 lacks standout features, and the frame weight of 740g in size 52 is not particularly impressive. Additionally, the team has swapped out all components from SRAM to MAVIC wheels, Shimano groupset, and SRM power meter.
The sky blue Factor O2, French elegance
Romain Bardet’s white custom version with CS faith rear derailleur enhancement
Factor’s time trial bike model, Slick
In the past two years, CS has had a high presence in the Tour de France, and this year they provided a blue lubrication coating.
Astana
Road Race – Argon 18 Gallium Pro 2018
Time Trial – Argon 18 E-118 Next
After switching from Specialized to Argon 18, Astana has had a rough year, but they welcomed the returning form of Aru at the Tour de France. The 2018 Argon 18 Gallium Pro has optimized tube shapes and changed the cable entry position, with slightly improved performance parameters. In terms of components, FSA provides the crankset and handlebars, but the electronic shifting kit and wheels have yet to be provided.
The lightweight climbing model Argon 18 Gallium Pro 2018 is Astana’s main racing bike at the Tour de France
Aru’s chrome red custom paint job has already helped him secure the next MTF stage
Argon 18 E-118 Next time trial bike
Bahrain Merida
Road Race – Merida New Reacto/Scultura
Time Trial – Merida Warp TT
My cousin Prince Nason’s team with Merida has showcased a luxurious aura this year, with new air bike Reacto released just before the Tour de France, significantly lighter than the old model, aiming to shed the