SwiftCarbon have resisted making an aero frame for years in an effort not to compromise their signature ride quality.
Their argument was that typically aero frames sacrifice handling and compliance for a negligible advantage when considering the big picture. For instance, aero seatstays probably offer less of an aerodynamic advantage than a 10mm bar drop, or than a rider with thinner calves, or even just an elbow tuck.
The human element has to be considered in the grand equation of bicycle frame performance and a tube that’s not optimally shaped for stiffness or compliance is seldom worth the compromise.
However, the pro riders on Team Drapac finally persuaded the team at SwiftCarbon so now they’ve made an aero frame on their terms – The HyperVox. And just as they approach all projects, it’s all about balance and common sense.
The frontal area of the head tube and down tube is minimised and smoothed off, while they’ve used a similar style of seat stay to the Ultravox to retain compliance at the rear. The sculpted BB reduces the surface area of the down tube and makes for maximum power transfer.
Carbon tech includes specially prepared Toray and Mitsubishi-Rayon materials, contributing to the exemplary stiffness and strength, far exceeding ISO testing standards. The UCI approved Hypervox features a custom SwiftCarbon aero seatpost.
Find out more on their website.