Wilier reveals Urta Max SLR - a full suspension bike for modern XC racing
The new Urta Max SLR features more travel, modern geometry and a one-piece carbon handlebar
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Wilier has launched a new XC race machine, the Urta Max SLR, with 120mm of travel, a new suspension system and refreshed components, including a one-piece carbon cockpit. Though the bike has been developed with Wilier-Pirelli Factory Team to be put through its paces at the UCI MTB World Series - the Italian brand said it should be as much fun on demanding home trails as well.
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Wilier Urta Max SLR - Suspension
2023 Wilier Urta Max SLR riding, by Wilier
The first aspect Wilier has changed on the Urta Max SLR is the suspension. The bike now comes equipped with 120mm of travel both rear and front, built around a new single-axle damping system.
The compression ratio has been optimised to be effective on any terrain type: the RockShox and Fox rear shock absorbers with 45mm travel that are mounted as standard have compression curves specifically tailored to work in symbiosis with the leverage ratio chosen in the design stage.
2023 Wilier Urta Max SLR rear shock, by Wilier
There are three operating phases: a regressive phase (stiffer and more sustained); a more reactive and sensitive phase, when maximum efficiency during pedalling is required; and a final phase, that is more progressive, to avoid the suspension bottoming out.
Wilier has positioned the rear shock absorber directly linked to the swing arm, making it easy to reach and adjust in the midst of a race.
Wilier Urta Max SLR - Frame
2023 Wilier Urta Max SLR frame, by Wilier
The new Urta Max SLR’s two triangles forming the frame are made of the brand’s top-of-the-range HUS-MOD carbon fibre, promising maximum stiffness only where necessary.
As is the modern trend, Wilier has hidden the cabling on the Urta inside the frame, with fully integrated cabling also at the headset. This decision is not purely aesthetic, as Wilier said the absence of holes improves stiffness and guarantees “continuous modularity and directionality of the carbon fibres”.
2023 Wilier Urta Max SLR handlebar.png, by Wilier
The integrated headset has been designed to pair well with the brand-new one-piece carbon handlebar - Urta Max Bar - with a negative 27-degree stem. The bar, made of the same HUS-MOD carbon as the frame, is available on 12 of the 20 build options Wilier offers.
At the rear, the Urta Max’s design is built around a single pivot point. Wilier has redesigned the conrod to be stiffer and added a seat stay bridge that doesn’t compromise the kinematics of the suspension system.
New Urta's tyre clearance on the frame is 2.4in.
Wilier Urta Max SLR - Geometry
2023 Wilier Urta Max SLR riding 2, by Wilier
The Urta Max has been designed for racing, which is apparent in its geometry that aims for the aggressive racing position. The stack has been reduced to a minimum, the reach is extended and the bottom bracket is dropped.
For size M bike, the stack measures 598mm and the reach 443mm. The head angle is 67.5 degrees and the seat angle is 75 degrees. By altering the angles, Wilier has made the Urta Max longer than the previous Urta, which should offer a more planted, but aggressive ride position.
2023 Wilier Urta Max SLR cranks, by Wilier
The frames come with a 31.6mm telescopic seatpost as standard. The small and medium frames get 100mm of travel and the medium and large 125mm. All frame sizes have been designed to fit two water bottles.
Wilier Urta Max SLR - Build options
2023 Wilier Urta Max SLR rear mech, by Wilier
The Urta Max SLR comes in 20 build options, coming with either Shimano or Sram transmission and Fox or RockShox suspension. The bike can take up to 38t chainrings and is compatible with UDH (universal derailleur hanger).
Price start from 6.200€ and range up to 11.200€.
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