Wilier Zero SL Road Bike Frame

Wilier Zero SL: Performance and Handling of a Pro-Level Bike at a More Affordable Price

Watching pro cyclists race down twisting Italian descents makes us dream of our own exploits on our own roads and even can intensify our desire to ride what the pros ride. That’s the whole point of bike brands sponsoring teams. But most brands realize most of us aren’t on WorldTour budgets, which is why there are bikes like the Wilier Zero SL. In terms of price, it’s the baby brother to the Zero SLR, but in terms of performance, it checks all the boxes the elite amateur needs.

The Wilier Zero SL has been designed to offer the same performance points as the pro-level Zero SLR, which means that the geometry is the same, the handling is sharp, the lines are clean, and the weight is low. You may well ask just what is different? Well, the weight for the SL isn’t quite as low as for the SLR, which is usually the case. But we’re talking just a fist-full of grams since the Zero SL weighs a still impressive 930 grams for a painted size M. You might not think that sounds so great, but remember, not only is this a frame built for disc brakes, most of the time the manufacturers give the frame weights without paint, and since inevitably you’ll have paint on your frame, it is nicely reassuring that Wilier isn’t practicing that particular sleight of hand with their numbers.

Aside from that, most of the clever features that make the Zero SLR one of the most successful bikes in the pro peloton, not to mention a road near you, have also been included in the Zero SL. So you’ll get the ACCU-Fit design table that allows you to get the most precise fit for your size, no need to compromise on reach or stack heights. And since the headset spacers have been made from seriously stiff composite material that can separate into two parts to allow for easy adjustments without messing around with the internally run cables means that you won’t have to feel locked into an uncomfortable position.

Tailored Stiffness and Stability of the Zero SL

Recognizing that people of different sizes generally require frames with different stiffness attributes, they have designed the various tubes used for each of the six sizes in ways that will maintain the desired consistency in terms of rigidity, handling characteristics as well as comfort. This practice ensures that every size has the perfect torsional stiffness and stability levels, with no extra weight where it’s not needed. To ensure all sizes have the perfect level or rear-end stiffness, Wilier has given the rear triangle an a-symmetrical design to deal with the lopsided level of power our legs put out.

The Wilier Zero SL offers race-ready levels of performance in a very slick looking, lightweight package. If you love the handling and appearance of an intelligently designed Italian carbon racing bike, then the Zero SL will be your ideal machine for rides of all lengths and intensities.

Also check De Rosa Road Bikes.