First Look: Cipollini NK1K
The Cipollini name is synonymous with uncompromising raw speed, but the introduction of new road bike NK1K has slightly rounded the bike brand’s hard-edged reputation. Compared to the RB1K, the NK1K features a slightly more upright, neutral rider position; more stable geometry; disc brake options; and improved ride comfort. Although it’s an all-rounder, the NK1K is still a performance bike at heart with an ultra-stiff bottom bracket and build of the same high-modulus T1000 M46J carbon that the Cipollini RB1K uses.
Although the head tube is taller, it’s still relatively short at 138mm on a size medium. According to Cipollini, that’s 7mm lower than a comparably sized Specialized Roubaix and 23mm higher than its own RB1K. Also: When you dial in your stem height, this bike has a unique integrated upper head tube assembly with optional heights to eliminate or reduce unsightly spacers.
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A shallower seat angle of 73.5 degrees—compared to 74.5 degrees on the RB1K—and shorter effective top tube length put the rider in a more upright position, making it better suited for longer races and rides. Increased trail offers more stable handling, too.
Other stats include a BB386 bottom bracket and mechanical or electronic internal cable routing. A battery for electronic versions will be permanently mounted in the seatpost so you’ll have to replace the whole unit when the battery gets old and no longer holds a charge. The frameset will be offered with either direct mount rim brakes or disc brakes. The disc brake version will have thru-axles front and rear.
Like Cipollini’s other bikes, the NK1K is Italian to its core—engineered in Verona, built in Florence, hand painted in Pisa, and assembled in Padova. Available in seven sizes, (from XXS to XXL), all this Italian sweetness will cost just $6,895 (frameset only) and become available by January 1.
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