French direct-to-consumer brand Origine has unveiled the Fraxion X, a cutting-edge aero road bike that seamlessly integrates advanced aerodynamics with dynamic handling. This model serves as the successor to the Fraxion GTR, introducing a distinctive split stem design reminiscent of the Ridley Noah Fast and Cervelo S5, where the stem is recessed into the head tube and features a split configuration. (grinta.be)
Aerodynamic Advancements
The Fraxion X has undergone extensive development, including computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and wind tunnel testing, to ensure optimal performance in real-world conditions. Compared to its predecessor, the Fraxion GTR, the Fraxion X offers:
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11% increased stiffness at the head tube and 16% at the bottom bracket, enhancing power transfer and handling.
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A 5% reduction in weight, despite further aerodynamic optimizations.
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A 15-watt decrease in drag at 40 km/h, improving speed and efficiency.
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Enhanced acceleration and precise steering, making it an excellent choice for descending. (grinta.be)
Integrated AeroFlow Cockpit
The bike features Origine’s proprietary AeroFlow Cockpit, a fully integrated system that extends naturally from the frame. This design ensures a seamless transition between the head tube and top tube, minimizing aerodynamic disruption. Available in 45 combinations of width, length, and rise, the cockpit allows for a customized fit tailored to each rider’s body and riding position. (origine-cycles.com)
Innovative Frame and Fork Design
The Fraxion X introduces a deeper head tube profile, inspired by the latest aerodynamic research, which guides airflow smoothly around the frame. The redesigned fork features deeper profiles and increased clearance, with a slim, deep design that reduces turbulence around the front wheel and rider’s legs, enhancing stability at high speeds. (origine-cycles.com)
Kammtail Profiles and Rear Design
The rear triangle incorporates Kammtail profiles on the seat tube and seat stays, extending the airflow smoothly to the rear of the bike. The short and compact rear stays improve acceleration responsiveness, while the overall design contributes to the bike’s aerodynamic efficiency. (origine-cycles.com)
SmartLay Carbon Construction
Utilizing high-modulus carbon with SmartLay technology, the Fraxion X optimizes stiffness in the bottom bracket and head tube for immediate power transfer, while providing vertical compliance in the seat stays to reduce rider fatigue. This careful selection and orientation of carbon fibers ensure a lightweight and high-performance frame. (origine-cycles.com)
Frame Variants and Customization
The Fraxion X is available in two carbon grades: Core and Lite. Both frames share the same aerodynamic design, with the Lite version being 150 grams lighter, focusing on acceleration and responsiveness, ideal for competitive riders. Additionally, Origine offers the RR version, based on the Lite frame, which includes ceramic bearings, titanium hardware, and ultralight components, achieving a claimed weight of 6.6 kg when equipped with SRAM Red AXS components and DT Swiss ARC 1100 wheels. (grinta.be)
Customization and Pricing
Origine’s online configurator allows riders to customize their Fraxion X, selecting from various components, wheelsets, and finishes to create a personalized bike. Prices range from €3,900 to €11,500, depending on the chosen specifications. For example, a Fraxion X with a Core carbon frame, Shimano 105 Di2 groupset, and Prymahl Orion C40 carbon wheels is priced at €5,247, while the Lite version with SRAM Force AXS and DT Swiss ARC 1100 wheels is available for €8,455. (grinta.be)
The Fraxion X exemplifies Origine’s commitment to innovation, offering a high-performance aero road bike that combines cutting-edge technology with customizable options to meet the needs of discerning cyclists.