This Excel Sports 3T Exploro Race Force AXS Bicycle is built in a "Race" oriented set-up and ready to do just that. We've focused the exciting possibilities of the versatile Exploro RaceMax frameset with a fast race package and SRAM Force eTap AXS 2x12 drivetrain. A Ritchey cockpit and a 3T carbon wheelset set this bike up for speed and distance, with all the aero and functional characteristics you expect from 3T and Excel Sports at a great price.

3T has pushed the Exploro concept further, driving better aerodynamics and efficiency, as well as massive tire clearance, now found in the Exploro RaceMax. This is a frameset that can offer impressive speed and all around capability for cyclists to whom that is crucial, whether racing or just tearing up gravel to avoid pavement and cars. At the same time, the rider who prefers to tackle all terrain with a goal of not walking can build out the same frameset with tires that push 61mm (2.4"), yet still have proper geometry. The Exploro RaceMax creates a whole new world of cycling opportunity whether a racer, a terrain maximizer, or anyone in between.

To understand the development of the Exploro RaceMax from 3T's perspective, you have to embrace two concepts: Width as measured, and Radius as measured, or WAM and RAM. The goal was to max a true aero frame and fork that integrated clearance and aero coverage. By understanding that WAM and RAM vary with internal rim width, desired tire pressure and actual tire specifications (not listed). As the internal width grows, the tire shape and volume changes- same with pressure. As such the listed tire spec becomes irrelevant and only actual measurements provide the true distance and clearances needed. The frame and fork can be designed for real measurements.

With the seattube cutout and seatstay bridge you can see the combination of upper clearance and optimal aero shielding, even with adequate mud clearance. Instead of the now customary dropped driveside lower stay, both stays have been dropped, delivering even greater clearance and increased lateral stiffness. The knowledge of the real working RAM of 347-353mm allows you make the optimal tire and rim choice for speed, volume and efficiency. The fork design has a minimal height crown that is both exceptionally strong and wide. The axle to crown is 370mm, the same as the average road bike, keeping the tire closer to the downtube- again more aero. This keeps the front end lower, improving handling and road-bike feel.

The Fango RaceMax fork has a tapered 1 1/2" to 1 1/8" steerer. You may wonder how it fits into the slim headtube- yet another aero feature- so 3T had Cane Creek create a custom, narrow headset, the MinMax, which can handle the same loads as a standard version. The fork and the frame have flat mount disc caliper mounts designed for direct use- no adapters- for 160mm disc rotors. The rear triangle and fork also feature fender mounts.

There are many less crucial features which add to the unique capabilities of the Exploro RaceMax, but the true essence has been covered. The result is a frameset that is truly capable of efficiency that only the best aero road bikes can match, with borderline ridiculous tire clearance, a powerful ride, with compliance. 3T has upgraded their hidden seatpost wedge that delivers more friction and hold with less torque. The new Charlie Sqaero carbon seatpost features the excellent and easy Ritchey WCS 1-bolt clamp system. The Syntace bolt-on thru axles for 12/142mm rear and 12/100 front are deemed to be the stiffest, most aero interface available. Frame fit has been improved, with six sizes available versus the four of the standard Exploro.

The 12-speed Force eTap AXS groupset features the WIDE component specs for proper frame clearance. You get the wireless AXS/HRD disc brake lever set, front and rear derailleurs, and 2eTap batteries with a USB charger. The Force WIDE 2x DUB crankset carries 45-30 chainrings matched with the Force 10-36 cassette, for proper range and fast shifts. A Ritchey WCS alloy cockpit is lightweight and strong, and 3T's 700c Discus 45/32 Wheelset offers ideal width and tubeless ready performance at a light weight- controlled 160mm rotors with the SRAM HRD hydraulic disc brakes. It's a great package. Clean, fast, and cost effective for such a capable fast gravel bike.