If we analyze the current cycling situation, one of the most relevant aspects is the great diversity of disciplines and the variety of bicycle models the big brands are putting on the market.
The Italian firm Titici and its gravel range offer several models, including the Relli, which is more focused on performance and competition; the Sterrato, produced in Columbus steel and for very versatile use; or the Alloi model, made with Dedacciai custom tubing. Recently, they presented a new model, the Revo.
We have been lucky enough to ride this latest unit for several weeks, and we have not constrained ourselves when it comes to testing it.
Suitable for all terrains
Creating a new bicycle model always represents a significant challenge for the engineers, and this case was not different. They had the advantage that it was clear to them what they were looking for a bicycle that would allow the rider to enjoy gravel in all its versions, preserving a competitive edge. Starting from that basis and after many hours of work, the Revo was born.
The bicycle is perfectly designed to enjoy a great day of gravel riding with friends, tackle technical trails without great difficulties for the most daring, or explore unknown spots during a multi-day trip thanks to its countless attachments, which allow you to install bags or accessories.
The unit we tested had a striking paint job, with a mustard yellow base with olive green details, representing the bicycle’s character and spirit very well.
Frameset in detail
The frame is a carbon monocoque manufactured using the EPS (Sintered Expanded Polystyrene) system with the primary objective of guaranteeing the highest quality of construction and finishing. Obviously, its horizontal tube includes the PAT (Plate Absorber Technology) technology, which is already part of the brand’s DNA. In this model, they have used the new PAT10 (10 mm thick) instead of the traditional system they used until now (8 mm). In this way, they ensure that the UCI certifies that the bicycle complies with all the standard measurements that the entity stipulates. Despite this increase, the system continues allowing vibration absorption up to 18% more than any other traditional frame without compromising its rigidity. Without a doubt, one of the differentiating values of Titici with respect to its competitors.
Looking at the front part, we find a wider head tube that allows complete integration and thus achieves a clean aesthetic without visible cables. As for the fork, it has been redesigned to have greater stability, especially on the descents, and has a certain asymmetry to counteract the force exerted by the brake system. Optionally, and as Titici tells us, we could choose a version of the fork with three anchor points on each side that offer many possibilities to those with a bikepacking trip in mind.
At the back, we find several aspects that catch our attention. Instead of attaching to the vertical tube, the chainstays engage directly to the horizontal tube. According to the brand, this reinforces one of the points where forces are concentrated and benefits the resistance and stability of the frame. The tire clearance offered by the Revo allows tires up to 700c x 50mm (or 650b x 2.1”), which guarantees fun and ensures that it is prepared for the most demanding terrain.
Titici completely designed the seatpost clamp so that it perfectly integrated with the frame’s design. These changes are not just aesthetic; each has a mission, and together, they offer a better riding experience.
Finally, if we focus on the drivetrain, the frame can mount 1x or 2x, whether electronic or mechanical. In the case of choosing a single chainring, we have the option of hiding the hole where the front derailleur is installed, thus ensuring that it is well hidden. On a related note, the brand offers many possibilities with SRAM, Shimano, and Campagnolo groupsets. Another detail we want to share with you is that the frame is fully compatible with the SRAM universal hanger (UDH), something we always value positively, especially in the event of an unexpected fall or breakdown.
Our feelings after days of riding
Considering that we have had the opportunity to participate in racing events with the Relli model and that the Revo is designed for a less demanding user, we have to admit that our feedback after riding all these days with this new Titici model is very satisfying.
As the brand promises, the bike behaves very well on irregular terrain and is very comfortable. Obviously, the size of the wheels you mount plays a crucial role, but in this case, with 38mm tires on, the frame’s performance was still dominant. We really liked the frame design and geometry they achieved for the Revo.
When it comes to suggested improvements, it could be good to include an internal storage box, something we can see lately in the more adventurous models of other brands, or improve the front derailleur cover by painting it the same base color as the bicycle. In this way, it would be even more camouflaged.
On an informative level, the unit we tested these days is assembled with a Campagnolo Ekar 1×13 and the new Campagnolo Levante wheels with 700c x 38mm Vittoria Terreno Dry tires. As for the components, they were mainly from the Italian firm Deda, except for the saddle, which was a Prologue Akero AGX. This is a bike with an authentic made-in-Italy spirit, and, of course, we love it.