Boardman Bikes go electronic

Boardman Bikes today launched four new Shimano Di2 bikes based on their Elite Series AiR and SLR models

The new bikes – the AiR/9.2S, AiR/9.0S, SLR/9.2S and SLR/9.0S – have new frames designed specifically to allow full integration of Shimano's electronic Di2 groupset. This means full internal routing for the wiring and a battery mounted on the non-drive side chainstay. This is the first time we've seen the Di2 battery mounted on the top of the chainstay and from the pictures we have clearly looks cleaner than the usual mounting on the down tube.

It's always been the company's plan to offer electronic transmissions on their bikes. Chris Boardman is a keen ambassador to the benefits of electronic gears. “Having used electronic gears for 8 years as a pro-rider, I have always appreciated the benefit - so much so, I have always wanted to incorporate the principle into the range,” he tells us.

“Thankfully, technology has now advanced and with Shimano releasing the Ultegra level option,” Boardman continues. “We are able to satisfy our customers increasing demand for this product. The four new Elite Series models are the result of this - with additional models already in the pipeline.”

Aside from provision for the electronic groupset, both frames are very much based on the current AiR and SLR framesets. The Elite range is the brands premium offering made with feature full carbon monocoque frames with FEA (Finite Element Analysis) and CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) used in the design process. The SLR is their lightest frame at less than 900g while the AiR is their aerodynamic offering.

The AiR/9.2S and SLR/9.2S will cost £3,499.99 with a Shimano Ultegra Di2 groupset complemented by an FSA SLK BB30 standard chainset (compact option available),  Mavic Ksyrium Elite wheels, Vittoria Open Corsa CX tyres and Ritchey finishing kit.

The AiR/9.0S and SLR/9.0S each cost £2,699.99 and keep the Ultegra Di2 transmission but swap the brakes for Shimano 105 calipers, an FSA Energy chainset, Mavic Aksium wheels and Boardman branded finishing kit.

The four models are available to pre-order now with delivery in mid October. Take a closer look at their website for more details of their dealer network www.boardmanbikes.com