VENTURI STC SRAM FORCE ETAP
'Stunning looks, performance, and ride quality' - Road.cc
We engineered our next generation Venturi to allow for fully integrated cables through the bar and stem. This enhanced the aerodynamic performance of the frame by reducing drag while emphasizing the clean lines. The Venturi STC Force features frame size specific BLK TEC carbon fibre cockpit components to allow for a ride quality which is naturally optimsed in line with rider fit profiles across a full size spectrum.
'The carbon Aero stem looks the business with its smooth shape and flush top cap. It's stiff too. The handlebar with the same name is stiffer than a lot of carbon bars I've used, but just like the frame, it doesn't feel harsh. The flat tops offer a comfortable hand position while being a little bit aero, and a nice touch is the full diameter centre section which allows you to fit a computer and lights, not something usually achievable on such designs.'
The Venturi frame silhouette features aerodynamically profiled tubing designed to run as close as possible to the wheels. However, it was also critical that we could offer riders 28c tyre clearance to help achieve a comfort level that we feel is a requisite for UK road conditions. Leaving no stone unturned in our pursuit to optimise the frame for the lowest drag coefficient possible meant looking at every frame tube and component in detail. This obsessive design process is evidenced by the aero seat post and hidden clamp.
'Overall, the whole frame is quite boxy and oversized, so it's impressive that Orro has been able to deliver so much comfort. The Orro seatpost uses an internal wedge style system instead of the more common external seat clamp. The bolt is tucked away under the top tube and I'm pleased to say that it held the post securely throughout testing.'
As the name suggests this model is built with Sram Force eTap AXS, use of this impressive electronic groupset is a new first for ORRO. The completely wireless shifter and derailleur design ensures setup and ongoing maintenance is much easier. We feel the wide range 10-33T cassette paired with a super compact chainset offers gearing that is perfect for sprinters and endurance riders alike.
'Out on the road it just works really well, and to be honest on the majority of the rides the small front chainring didn't get a whole lot of use. The shifting is quick and crisp, the carbon cranks are super-stiff, ready for plenty of pedal mashing, and the whole setup runs very quietly. The Flattop chain continues the clean and smooth look, too. It's also an easy groupset to set up thanks to SRAM's app, which allows you to set up how the shifters respond (it also shows you the battery life left on each component).'
Road.cc conclusion - 'The 2021 Venturi has retained all of the spirit and fun of the previous model but brings with it more refinement and makes a stunning looking bike even more appealing. The BlkTec components finish things off nicely, and the SRAM eTap groupset really exploits the performance of the frame.'
You can check out the full review on the Road.cc website by clicking here, and the Road.cc Superbike finalist feature in the video clip below.
Play