When I first got my hands on the new OPEN UP and UPPER bikes, I felt like a kid in a candy store. These aren't just bikes; they're the culmination of a decade's worth of engineering excellence, now perfected for the ultimate gravel experience.
A Ride Like No Other
Taking the UPPER CONCE.PT out on varied terrain was a revelation. The bike's featherlight frame, weighing in at just 845 grams for a size M, made ascents feel almost effortless. Its agility was immediately apparent—every twist and turn of the trail was met with precise handling, giving me the confidence to push harder and go faster.
Aerodynamics Meets Comfort
What truly sets these bikes apart is the harmonious blend of speed and comfort. The aerodynamic design, particularly the deep headtube and the U-Turn Aero fork, cuts through wind resistance like a knife. This means maintaining high speeds without the usual fatigue. Yet, despite its aero profile, the bike doesn't compromise on comfort. The frame's compliance absorbs road vibrations, allowing for longer, more enjoyable rides.
Technical Innovations That Matter
Let's dive into what makes these bikes technical masterpieces:
Unleash Speed and Endurance with Aerodynamic Comfort
To ride faster and farther, you need a bike that combines low aerodynamic drag with high comfort. The new frameset enhances OPEN's legendary frame compliance by adding aerodynamic features where they matter most—the front end—allowing you to slice through wind effortlessly.
Optimized Tire Clearance for Exceptional All-Terrain Performance
Designed to accommodate 35-46mm tires (up to 44mm on the UPPER CONCE.PT), these bikes deliver unmatched responsiveness and exhilarating handling on any terrain. For riders seeking even greater versatility with wider tires, the OPEN WI.DE model offers the ultimate solution for rugged off-road adventures.
Maintenance-Free Riding with Advanced Component Integration
Experience more riding and less wrenching thanks to thoughtful features like the Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH), a T47 threaded bottom bracket, and internal cable routing designed for effortless cockpit adjustments. These innovations simplify maintenance and enhance durability, ensuring you spend more time on the trail and less time in the workshop.
Lightweight Agility for High-Speed Racing and Versatile Adventures
This ultra-light and nimble gravel bike is engineered for fast racing and dynamic riding, delivering unmatched performance across various terrains. Thanks to its exceptional comfort, efficiency, and speed, it's perfect for overnight bikepacking trips and fast-paced tarmac group rides alike.
U-Turn Aero Fork: Maximized Aerodynamics for Unrivaled Speed
The U-Turn Aero Fork is the epitome of aerodynamic engineering, designed for cyclists who demand the highest speeds. Featuring fully streamlined blades and an integrated brake caliper, it minimizes air resistance by eliminating cargo mounts and other disruptions to airflow. Standard on the U.P.PER. CONCE.PT, this fork ensures you experience unmatched efficiency and velocity on every ride.
U-Turn Adventure Fork: Unmatched Comfort with Cargo Flexibility
Discover the ultimate in riding comfort with the U-Turn Adventure Fork, featuring shallower and more compliant fork blades designed for smooth handling on any terrain. Perfect for the adventurous cyclist, this fork allows you to attach cargo directly to the fork blades—whether it's bottles, bags, or custom OPEN accessories—providing the versatility you need for extended journeys.
- Advanced Fork Options: The U-Turn Aero fork on the UPPER CONCE.PT is all about speed, featuring fully aerodynamic blades and an integrated brake caliper. For those who prefer versatility, the upcoming U-Turn Adventure fork offers more compliance and the ability to attach cargo like bottles or bags—perfect for long adventures.
- Size-Specific Design: OPEN has gone the extra mile by tailoring every aspect of the bike to its size. This includes unique tube shapes, geometry, and carbon layups for each of the five sizes (two sizes for the UPPER CONCE.PT). Even the fork crowns are size-specific, ensuring consistent handling and ride quality across the range.
- Wire-Stay Seatstays: The redesigned seatstays now bow outward, enhancing vibration absorption without compromising structural integrity. This innovative approach pre-loads the stays to flex optimally, smoothing out the ride over rough terrain.
- Straight Chainstays for Power Transfer: By opting for straight chainstays, the bikes offer exceptional power transfer from pedal to wheel. This design also accommodates tires up to 46mm wide (44mm for the UPPER CONCE.PT), giving you the flexibility to choose the best tire for your riding style.
- Smartmount 160 Brake System: Both the front and rear brakes use the Smartmount 160 system, allowing the brake calipers to attach directly to the frame and fork without the need for adapters or spacers. This not only reduces weight but also increases stiffness and reliability.
- Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH) Compatibility: The frames are compatible with the UDH system, making them versatile for various drivetrain setups, including SRAM's latest Transmission rear derailleurs. This ensures future-proofing and easy maintenance.
- T47 Threaded Bottom Bracket: The use of the T47 standard combines the best of both worlds—it's threaded for reliability and wide enough (86mm shell) to accommodate any crank axle, from oversized 30mm spindles to Shimano's 24mm.
- Rotoblock Fender Mounts: Say goodbye to rattling fenders. The unique Rotoblock system secures fender stays directly to the frame, preventing rotation and ensuring a quiet, stable ride in all conditions.
Built with Purpose and Passion
One of the most inspiring aspects is that these bikes are "Made in Freedom" in Portugal. OPEN's commitment to aligning their production with personal and ethical values adds a layer of integrity to these machines. It's not just about performance; it's about responsible craftsmanship.
Versatility at Its Best
Whether you're into fast-paced group rides on tarmac or venturing off the beaten path for an overnighter, these bikes adapt seamlessly. The 27.2mm round seatpost allows for a range of customization, including dropper or suspension posts for those rugged trails.
Why These Bikes Are Rare Gems
In a saturated market, the new OPEN UP and UPPER stand out not just for their cutting-edge technology but also for their exclusivity. Being among the few shops to offer these exceptional bikes feels like being part of an elite club of cycling enthusiasts who appreciate true innovation.
Conclusion
After spending quality time with the new OPEN UP and UPPER, it's clear they've redefined what's possible in gravel biking. The meticulous attention to detail, from aerodynamic efficiency to rider-specific customization, sets a new standard. If you're looking to elevate your cycling experience with a bike that's as responsive as it is comfortable, as fast as it is versatile, then look no further. These bikes aren't just purchases; they're investments in countless future adventures.