Carbon fiber enables the frame builder to develop
completely new shapes. However, it was not until the advent
of computer modeling that this advantage could be realized
to the fullest extent. While most carbon fiber frames so
far were either too flexible or too heavy to be a match
for the best Al bikes, now cyclists can finally get frames
which surpass traditional frames in every aspect. Matching
the best frames in weight and stiffness, the TOTAL ECLIPSE
FRAME sets new standards with regard to comfort and aerodynamics.
And all is combined in the shape of a unique design which
is equally exciting and beautiful.
Extreme stiffness for optimum
power transfer
Competitive cyclists need a frame that will transfer all
their power to the road. The large diameter down tube is stiff enough
to keep the bottom bracket in place whatever you throw at it. The same
holds for the front section of the frame: Any steering input results in
immediate reaction. No matter how fast your descent – the TOTAL
ECLIPSE FRAME will not keep you from going faster.
Maximum density fibers
for highest stiffness
Our proprietary MAXDENSITY process results in the highest possible
fiber density: The 65% of carbon fibers stiffening up our frame are unmatched
by the competition. Such levels can ordinarily only be found in the aerospace
industry. Our unique MAXDENSITY material results in a lighter in
stiffer frame.
Optimum
comfort through CARBON SUSPENSION
Thanks to the comfort offered by carbon fiber the TOTAL
ECLIPSE FRAME rolls over road irregularities much more smoothly. This
means a less tiring ride for the demanding cyclist, especially on long
distances.
Advantages of the CARBON
SUSPENSION
The search for the ideal stiffness of the beam was carried
out through the close cooperation of our engineers with competitive cyclists
and triathletes. The goal was to keep the drivetrain stiff while offering
optimum rider comfort. The optimum was found to be at 90 Nm per millimeter
of deflection. This means that the seat will move 1 mm per 9 kg of weight.
The seat deflection is not noticeable during slow
riding like uphill passages. When riding faster, however,
you immediately notice the absence of hard hits which
normally serve to wear out your body. CARBON SUSPENSION lets
you ride over rough terrain with more comfort and control.
While riding with low speed, for example uphill, you
won't realise the beam's suspension. Only when riding
with high speed, when road imperfections hit faster
and are felt more the CARBON SUSPENSION compensates
for it.
Our CARBON SUSPENSION is tuned towards the
needs of competitive cyclists. The dampening is stiff
enough to rule out any pogo effect know from traditional
beam bikes. Especially SOFTRIDE beams are designed to
be much softer, thereby making the feel of the bike
seem much more different from regular bicycles.
Excellent aerodynamics
The TOTAL ECLIPSE FRAME offers unsurpassed aerodynamics.
The rounded shapes and the lack of a seat tube and seat stays help you
cut the wind better than on any other frame. Traditional diamond shapes
frames have three additional tubes which create turbulences, thereby wasting
precious energy and slowing you down.
The effect is that on the TOTAL ECLIPSE FRAME you
can ride farther faster with the same power input. Pro
cyclists used to take advantage of such benefits of
modern frame design by choosing similar frames for time
trial events. In time trial competitions you would hardly
see a traditional frame ridden by any one of the top
riders. The turn away from ancient frame designs had
long arrived. Nowadays, the UCI, the world regulating
body for cycling competitions has passed restrictions
banning such advanced frame designs. Thus, if your goal
is to go for yellow next July you simply need to train
harder. For anybody else, however, there is no reason
why you should not take advantage of the most advanced
frame available today.
Low weight: Complete
bikes under 15 lbs (6.8 kg)
Our 3.5 lbs frame (1610 g) is an excellent basis for an
ultralight bicycle (frame size 55.5 cm/22”). Our lightest complete
bike offered weighs less than 15 lbs (6.8 kg) in frame size 23”.
It is probably the most aerodynamic bike in its weight class. Thus, in
addition to its low weight you get everything you need to ride fast successfully:
A bike which is efficient in every respect – stiff for climbing
and sprints, with excellent steering response for safe descents and tight
crits, aerodynamic and comfortable for long distances. The TOTAL ECLIPSE
FRAME is in a class of its own – the first of a new breed of modern
high-performance bicycles. |