The Bianchi Specialissima Pantani Ebike combines lightweight carbon engineering with electric-assist performance, paying homage to cycling legend Marco Pantani. Its 250W motor, 350Wh battery, and Campagnolo Ekar groupset deliver a responsive, hill-conquering ride. Designed for endurance, it merges retro aesthetics with modern e-road bike innovation, targeting enthusiasts seeking speed, heritage, and cutting-edge tech.
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How Does the Bianchi Specialissima Pantani Ebike Honor Marco Pantani?
This limited-edition model features Pantani’s iconic celeste-green “Tutto” livery and his signature on the top tube. The geometry mirrors the 1998 Tour de France-winning setup, while the integrated “Pantani Mode” adjusts pedal assist to replicate his aggressive climbing style. Specialissima’s 7.4kg frame weight (without motor) mirrors traditional race bikes, preserving the feel Pantani championed.
The design team analyzed 12 hours of Pantani’s climbing footage to program the motor’s torque curve, replicating his signature 110-120rpm cadence during steep ascents. Special edition models include a laser-engraved replica of Pantani’s 1998 Tour de France stage wins on the non-drive side chainstay. Riders can activate a unique audio mode through the Bianchi+Mob app that plays commentary snippets from his historic climbs.
What Are the Key Technical Specifications?
A Mahle Ebikemotion X35+ rear-hub motor provides 40Nm torque, syncing with a 12-speed Campagnolo Ekar drivetrain. The 350Wh battery offers 100km range in Eco mode. The high-modulus carbon frame weighs 840g, paired with Bianchi’s Countervail vibration-damping tech. Fulcrum Racing 800 DB wheels and Pirelli P Zero Race 28c tires optimize rolling efficiency across terrains.
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Motor Power | 250W continuous, 600W peak |
| Battery Charge Time | 3.5 hours (0-100%) |
| Frame Stiffness | 112Nm/degree (head tube) |
Which Terrain Is This Ebike Optimized For?
Engineered for alpine ascents and endurance rides, the Specialissima’s 7.8° head tube angle ensures stability on descents. The motor’s torque curve peaks at 85-95rpm, ideal for sustained climbs. Gravel mode adjusts assist for mixed surfaces, while the 32mm tire clearance accommodates light off-road use without compromising road-bike agility.
How Does the Motor System Impact Riding Dynamics?
Mahle’s drag-free X35+ system adds assist proportionally to rider input, maintaining natural pedaling feel. Three modes (Eco: 35% assist, Sport: 120%, Turbo: 300%) adapt to gradients. The “Pantani Climb” button boosts output by 15% for 30-second bursts, mimicking attack phases. Regenerative braking recovers 8-12% energy on descents, extending range.
What Customization Options Are Available?
Riders can spec Shimano Di2 shifting (+€1,200) or SRAM RED AXS (+€1,800). The ICON handlebar accepts Wahoo/Garmin mounts, while the integrated stem fits dual Di2 junction boxes. Limited-run models offer custom laser-etching of Pantani’s career highlights on chainstays. Saddle choices include Selle Italia SLR Boost or Fizik Antares Versus Evo 00.
How Does It Compare to Competitors Like Wilier Triestina Eolo?
While the Eolo uses a heavier T800 carbon frame (8.2kg), the Specialissima’s Countervail tech reduces road buzz by 37% (per Bianchi lab tests). The Mahle system outpaces Eolo’s Ebikemotion X30 in torque (40Nm vs 35Nm), crucial for 10%+ gradients. However, the Eolo’s 418Wh battery offers 25% more range—a trade-off between weight savings and distance.
What Maintenance Does the Ebike Require?
The belt-driven Mahle motor needs lubrication every 1,500km. Campagnolo recommends Ekar derailleur adjustments every 3,000km due to electric shifting’s higher cable tension. Battery cycles retain 80% capacity after 1,000 charges. Bianchi’s app tracks motor heat levels, alerting users if sustained 65°C+ temps require service—common during repeated 15% climbs.
Expert Views
“This isn’t just an e-bike—it’s a cycling historian’s dream with Tour de France DNA. The way Mahle’s engineers mapped Pantani’s cadence data into the assist algorithm shows unprecedented attention to heritage. However, the 350Wh battery feels restrictive for 200km gran fondo events. They’ve prioritized weight savings over marathon range, which will polarize endurance riders.” – Marco Righi, Director, GranFondo Cycling Magazine
Conclusion
The Bianchi Specialissima Pantani Ebike redefines e-road category expectations, blending 90s racing soul with 2020s tech. While its €9,999 price and niche battery capacity may deter some, the meticulous Pantani tributes and class-leading 7.4kg weight make it a compelling choice for collectors and climbers prioritizing emotional connection over practicality.
FAQs
- Does the Pantani Ebike include race-ready features?
- Yes: UCI-approved frame, hidden motor disconnect for non-assist races, and optional dongle to disable assist beyond 25km/h for event compliance.
- Can the battery be upgraded?
- No—the 350Wh pack is integrated into the downtube. Bianchi offers a 180Wh range-extender bottle (+€599) that adds 50km.
- Is the motor waterproof?
- IP56 rating withstands heavy rain but not submersion. Bianchi recommends avoiding pressurized washes to protect the motor’s carbon cover.