Cipollini NK1K Frameset

You can always train harder. You can teach your body to be comfortable in an aero position on the drops. But you’re still pushing your bike through air, and the faster you go, the more the air slows you down. The Cipollini NK1K does all it can to make sure that your frame isn’t slowing you down. In fact, compared to you on a standard frame, it’s speeding you up. Hope you get one before the competition wises up.

You know the Cipo’ RB1000 aka RB1K. The NK1K bases its advances on that frame. They employ the same T1000 carbon cloth. They share a wide, stiff, light 1 ¼” to 1 1/2” tapered steerer as well as a wide and stiff BB386EVO bottom bracket shell. They share a downtube notch for seamless fork integration and a seat tube that shrouds the rear wheel.

The NK1K is more aerodynamic in a number of ways. The downtube is lower, and closer to the front wheel, minimizing turbulence between the two. Direct mount brakes move the calipers closer to the frame, which means less turbulent air around them. The seat tube is closer to the rear wheel, again, minimizing turbulence. A medium frame weighs in at 1120g unpainted.

The NK1K is also a more comfortable ride. The direct mount brakes allow for tires up to 28mm in width. The seatpost is adjustable. It is included with the frame, has a 18mm offset clamp and is compatible with all saddles. The smaller shape allows for more vibration damping. Likewise, the top tube flattens and tapers more on its traverse from the head tube to the seat tube. The seat stays are also thinner, again, more flex, greater comfort. In addition to the adjustable seatpost, there is an integrated headset spacer which allows you to effectively raise the top of the headset by 16mm. And there are micro-spacers that go on top of that for more reach adjustment.

The geometry, likewise is more stage race oriented. The seat and head angles are a bit relaxed relative to the RB1K and the head tube is taller.

In keeping with the times, the bottom bracket utilizes the BB386EVO standard. It’s 86mm wide, can take thru-axles up to 30mm in diameter, and is compatible with most cranks, save some BB30 cranks. The cable routing is internal and can work with both mechanical and electronic. If the latter, than the battery goes inside. The front derailleur mounts to a hanger, which can be removed if you opt for 1X systems, or replaced if you damage it.

The NK1K doesn’t come with brakes, but it does come with the headset.

The Cipollini NK1K goes faster, longer, more easily. The future is now.