At this point, It is known by everyone that the global demand for bikes is increasing to the point that not even the brands themselves are capable of supplying their customers in a reasonable time. In the realm of custom bikes and handbuilt frames, the situation is not much different. More and more people choose to invest their money in more exclusive, unique, and above all, personalized products. On the other hand, framebuilders try to differentiate themselves from their competition through aspects such as quality, materials chosen, and creativity.
The case of this Stelbel Nina XCr is a perfect example of how a brand makes the most of its abilities to create a unique bike.
Perfect formula ‘made in Italy’
The first impression you get when you see the Stelbel Nina XCr in the first person is the wise combination of materials, paint, and components. Without a doubt, it was a bold move and it has turned out very well.
A frame thought and designed to go fast and offer great performance on any type of terrain, especially on gravel paths. The XCr alloy steel from Columbus chosen for this model provides extra lightness, stiffness, and durability, very important aspects to take into account when choosing a bike from this range.
It has a tire clearance that allows you to mount wheels up to 42c which provides added comfort on more demanding terrain. It comes mounted with a Campagnolo Ekar 1×13 mechanical groupset with flat-mount discs and internal cabling. For the wheels, they rely on the Campagnolo Shamal Carbon Disc that, with its characteristic spoke thread, give the bike a unique touch. The cockpit (seat post, handlebar, and stem) is from Deda, having selected the lightest models in the catalog, more specifically those that correspond to the Superleggero range. As for the rest of the components worth mentioning, we have the Selle San Marco Allroad Racing saddle, WTB Byway 40c tires, and the always reliable Chris King’s headset.
Without a doubt, a combination of mostly Italian brands with a top product as a result.
A great paint job and coat finish
If a moment ago we told you about the curated components of a bike like the Stelbel Nina XCr, now we wanted to tell you more details about the coat finish.
For the paint job, they have chosen a pearl white base with small details in orange combined with the color of the stainless steel pipe bathed only with varnish. Among the details, we find the signature of Stelio Belletti, founder of the brand, the Stelbel logo engraved on the head tube, or the personalized titanium bottle cages with the letter S that identifies the firm.
Even if we described the Nina XCr as fast, agile, and with racing character, it is also perfectly equipped for bikepacking adventures thanks to its capacity for three bottles and the option of installing fenders. In addition, the frame has the possibility of screwing bags (upper and lower) in the vertical tube and thus avoids the use of mechanical closing systems that can damage the paint. Another great choice that, overall, makes this Nina XCr a great work by Stelbel.
