Designed for a life lived on two wheels, and the types of adventures that have a beginning, but no end, Silkroad has been circling the globe in one form or another for over two decades. Built around an ultra-tough steel frame, Silkroad features many of our signature adventurous innovations, such as integrated racks and proprietary steering stopper, alongside Pinion and gearhub drivetrain options. Simply pick your color and parts, pack your bags, and set out to see the world.
The Thermocrom tube set takes our frame construction to the next level. By heat treating the steel, we can strategically use thinner-walled tubes in certain areas, reducing weight without compromising durability. We can tailor the classic ride characteristics of each frame to its specific application, optimizing weight and stiffness. Thermocrom shares virtually all the properties of our Dedacciai tubes, but represents a massive reduction in the overall carbon footprint of your bike by reducing the shipping of raw materials and tubes between countries.
Bolted to the frame at four points, the E-Expedition Rack made of CrMo 4130 steel is very robust and is painted in two coats in our in-house powder coating plant for optimum protection against corrosion. The optional, modular EX-Rail system has already proven itself on our frame-integrated Expedition Rack II and offers three configurations:
Stay fast and light by using the E-Expedition Rack on its own. Mount the stainless steel EX-Rails for more stability and less wear. This moves the load down and further back to increase heel clearance and lower the center of gravity. Attach the optional Quick-Lock3 mounting kit and enjoy the benefits of Ortlieb's fastest and easiest bag attachment system.
28" wheels offer a balanced mix of comfort, lightness and speed - perfect for trekking bikes. Compared to 29", they are slightly more agile, accelerate faster and are well suited for mixed routes and everyday use.
29“ wheels are basically 28” wheels with wide tires and shine with high riding comfort and good traction, especially off-road or on long tours - but with slightly less agility. They roll particularly well over bumps and are therefore ideal for rough terrain. Due to the larger volume of the tires on 29" wheels, you can ride with lower air pressure, which also increases riding comfort.
Choosing the right wheel size essentially depends on the intended use, personal preferences in terms of riding characteristics and the availability of spare parts.
The 3in1 dropout enables maximum drive flexibility: derailleur or hub gears can be easily converted. Thanks to the modular sandwich design, you can also switch from chain to belt drive. Everything is invisibly and aesthetically integrated, without compromising on design. Ideal for versatile adaptations to your bike.
The belt drive is low-maintenance as it requires no oil and is less susceptible to dirt. It also runs quieter and cleaner. The compatibility of the belt with the matching frame and hub gears or transmission makes it more expensive to purchase and more difficult to repair or replace.
The chain drive scores with efficiency and universal applicability. It enables precise power transmission and is compatible with all derailleur gears that offer many gears. However, it requires regular maintenance and is susceptible to wear and dirt. Noise and potential soiling of clothing are also negative points.
Conclusion: The chain drive is suitable for versatility and performance, the belt drive for low maintenance and suitability for everyday use. The choice depends on personal preference and intended use.
The Silk Road, an ancient trade network and connection between East and West Asia. In the past, it facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas and cultures. Today, it is one of the most popular routes for cycling expeditions and allows adventurers to experience the history and vastness of Central Asia up close on narrow paths and ancient caravan routes in a breathtaking landscape.