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Pro Bikes, July 28, 2007
Paolo Savoldelli's Astana BMC TT01 Time Machine
Superfast, but carrying a one-way ticket to nowhereBy James Huang
Team Astana rider Paolo Savoldelli's BMC TT01 Time Machine doesn't travel through time like the fictional H.G. Wells' apparatus, but it is certainly designed to shave as much time as possible from the clock as it slices through the air. BMC first unveiled its creation under the legs of Tyler Hamilton back at the 2004 Tour de France, yet in spite of its relative age, it still stands as one of the most radical examples of the genre today. Naturally, aerodynamics are a key factor with any dedicated time trial rig, and BMC shapes each applicable tube into a deep airfoil section that takes maximum advantage of the UCI's 3:1 aspect ratio rule. Moreover, its unique Aero Hinge design incorporates a proprietary fork, headset, and stem construct that is claimed to be lighter, stiffer, and more aerodynamic than conventional setups. Each fully custom Swiss-built carbon frame is crafted specifically to the dimensions of its intended rider through BMC's Personal Precision Program, or '3P'; there are no stock units sitting in a warehouse waiting to be shipped. In the case of Savoldelli's TT01, it's a good thing that each one is carefully fitted as subsequent saddle height adjustment is extremely limited due to the truly integrated fixed-length seat tube design (small adjustments are made via several set screws in the seat cradle). BMC's second generation TT01 solves that issue with a telescoping airfoil-shaped seatpost, and newer frames also shed several hundred grams with revised carbon lay-ups and a new unidirectional finish. Still, Savoldelli and others on the team prefer the feel and handling of the original model. Savoldelli's TT01 is outfitted with a mix of components supplied by Astana's sponsors, including an aero wheelset built with Easton and DT Swiss components, an Easton integrated Attack TT handlebar, and a nearly-complete Campagnolo Record group. As is the case with many ProTour riders, Savoldelli perches atop a custom-built saddle, in this case a Selle Italia Flite Carbon with a factory-trimmed nose. The perilously narrow 19c tubular tires of days gone by have apparently finally flown the coop as Savoldelli's machine was fitted with 22c tires front and rear, including a softer-compound Continental Pro Limited Competition Rain model up front to provide a surer hold on the road. The 2005 Giro d'Italia champion and past TdF stage winner was a designated support man in the mountains for team leader Alexander Vinokourov in this year's Tour, yet still managed respectable placings in both the opening prologue and the Stage 13 time trial in Albi. Sadly, though, Savoldelli sleek Time Machine will be firmly anchored in the present during the final time trial in Stage 19 due to Vinokourov's recent positive doping test and Astana's subsequent withdrawal from the race. Savoldelli's troubles seem to have only begun in Albi, though. Cadel Evans' Predictor-Lotto team has already filed a lawsuit against Vino and his Astana team, and the team has already been refused entry into the upcoming Tour of Germany. No doubt Il Falco will survive to fly another day, but the exact circumstances of that flight will remain to be seen. PhotosFor a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here Images by James Huang/Cyclingnews.com
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Full specificationFrame: BMC TT01 Time Machine Critical measurements Bottom bracket: Campagnolo Record Ultra-Torque |
Rims: Easton EC90 Bars: Easton Attack TT, 38cm (c-c) Pedals: Look Keo Carbon Cro-Moly Total bike weight: 7.7kg (17.0lb) | ||||||||||||||||
