Factor Bikes has launched the second generation of its Ostro VAM road bike, promising to be more aerodynamic and lighter than its predecessor. The new version of the Ostro VAM, which was originally launched in 2020, has been adapted based on feedback from racing cyclists who have used it, resulting in a bike designed to increase efficiency while racing.
‘Front to Back’ Development
The company has stepped up development of the bike, using what it calls a “front to back” approach. This means that changes made to the front of the bike can have a cascading impact on the rear.
By balancing the positive gains at the front and minimizing the negatives at the rear, Factor achieved an overall improvement in the bike.
According to the company’s engineers, almost every part of the bike has a different shape, with the exception of the downtube, which remains the main vehicle for displaying the Factor logo. The bike has been divided into five different zones, each with its own features and improvements.
Weight reduction and speed gain
Although the original Ostro VAM was already light, the new version is even lighter. The second generation Ostro VAM frame weighs approximately 820 grams, a weight reduction of around 40 grams compared to the previous model.
According to Factor, the new Ostro VAM is 28.8 seconds faster at a speed of 48 km/h over a distance of 40 km, resulting in savings of approximately 7 watts at this speed.
The 54 cm Ostro VAM complete bike in the top-of-the-line model meets the UCI weight limit of 6.8 kg, according to the manufacturer.
Ostro VAM and the wheels of Black Inc
At the launch of this second generation of the Ostro VAM, Factor also brought a new set of wheels from Black Inc, the 48/58, which weigh just 1,283 grams. The new wheels have an internal rim width of 23 mm, accepting tires up to 32 mm wide.
Pricing and configurations
The manufacturer offers a diverse range of purchasing possibilities, from the traditional package with frame, fork and seatpost costing US$5,499 to the premium package with SRAM Red Etap AXS group with Quarq PM power meter, priced at US$11,499.
