Factor Bikes has announced the ‘reimagining of its triathlon-specific bike’, the SLiCK. Integrating the latest technology from across Factor’s portfolio of road and track machines, the company adds that the SLiCK is optimized for age group multisport athletes.
The redesigned SLiCK leverages trickle-down technology from Factor’s Olympic Gold medal-winning HANZŌ Track and its World Tour bike, the OSTRO VAM.
According to the company… ‘Designed for straight-line speed, the gold medal-winning HANZŌ Track maximizes the chord length of the airfoil sections for improved aerodynamics, a feature incorporated into the SLiCK to offer athletes unparalleled speed.
‘Drawing inspiration from the OSTRO VAM, the SLiCK’s front end has been carefully engineered to maximize performance at variable yaw angles, providing an approximate six-watt saving at 48 km/h over the previous edition, the new iteration deploys a ~12% increase in aerodynamic performance – catering to individual dynamics rather than group riding.’
Factor has also redesigned the new bike’s rear triangle to take the edge off bumping from the road so athletes are able to perform over a range of triathlon race distances, from middle to long.
Factor has crafted a responsive layup weighing 1250g for the frame and 459g for the fork (for a size 54cm). It has opted for a standard 1” 1/4 steerer tube to help customize a rider’s fit and also making the bike quick to transport.
Utilizing a rail-style saddle mount also provides an effective range of 73-79º STA (height dependent) and allows the use of a wide variety of 10mm-compatible accessories.
Integrated in-frame storage with a convenient latch mechanism allows access to ride essentials without sacrificing aerodynamics. Plus, the bike’s hydration system is strategically positioned within the wake of the stem to minimize drag.
Available in a wide range of sizes, starting from an XS frame, Factor is also offering two models at different price points, the SLiCK and SLiCK Premium. The SLiCK Premium is specced with Vision Metron TFA aero bars and the all-new Black Inc SIXTY TWO wheelset.
Rob Gitelis, Factor and Black Inc Founder said “We are pleased to be bringing Factor’s world-class engineering and performance to the global community of triathletes.
“Drawing on the aerodynamic excellence of the HANZŌ and the versatility of the OSTRO VAM, the SLiCK strikes the perfect balance between real-world speed and practicality.
“Our commitment to triathlon is now stronger than ever, reflected not only in the launch of the new SLiCK, but also in our partnerships with world-class triathletes who are already achieving fantastic results at the biggest races in the world.”
