a LEGEND. THE EVOLUTION OF REDCHILLI FR1 ROULER
It’s hard to believe that 10 years has passed since our FR1 model was first introduced. During this time, FR1 “Rouluer” has evolved into a rather stunning race machine. A bike that can handle whatever terrain geology and geography alike may throw in its way. Mountains, hills, rolling roads, flat roads, tight twisting circuits or open country lanes, FR1 just gets on with the job. From those early days to the latest UCI Approved version that it is today, FR1 has always had one rather simple function set within its DNA; to help you ride faster.
FR1 has come a long way since those early days and while it’s always been special, it is now a truly amazing speed machine. Let’s take a look back and see how we have got to where we are today.
FR1 – VERSION 1 – 2014-2016
From its original inception, FR1 was always destined to become something of a legend. Back in the day when rim brakes ruled for road bikes, David (head honcho at Redchilli Towers) set out to create a race bike that, in terms of pure performance, could compete with the global brands at a much more affordable price point. David adds “Whilst looks are one thing, a bike really needs to perform in several key areas, but quality of build must always take priority.”
Being ‘Full Aero’ was always the key focus for FR1. The dream was to create a thoroughbred race machine that could perform across any road type or terrain. Giving the rider that sense of pure satisfaction that their bike is working with them to deliver as much power as possible. Without doubt, this was achieved.
Much was learned from the early FR1. While this was indeed a stunning bike, there was room for improvement. With that said, it’s still pleasing to see many of the early FR1’s out on the roads. Testament therefore to the ethos of ‘pure quality’ from the outset.
FR1 – Version 2 -2016-2019
Building upon what was learned from its predecessor, the goal for FR1 was to improve its ability to climb. This was achieved by lowering the rear seat stays in order to firm up the rear triangle and to improve the way the bike would respond to a sudden burst of pedal pressure.
In order to retain a balanced frame, the head tube juncture was also beefed up to retain frame stiffness from front to rear. Aero dynamics were also improved with a much wider ‘Air Flow’ front fork. The purpose; considerably less drag between the front fork and tyre and this was worked in conjunction with a redesigned rear seat stay/seat tube junction, creating a ‘T-Tube Aero Fin’ whereby air flow was also greatly improved, forcing air away from the rear wheel. The rear brake was also seated beneath the bottom bracket/chainstay junction and this paved the way for a much cleaner rear triangle – even giving clues to how future bike design would change with the onset of disc brakes just around the corner.
FR1 – VERSION 3 – 2019-2021
During a time when Covid-19 was first being introduced to the world, version 3 experienced challenging times. As David says “We all know what happened during the pandemic. Those were indeed unprecedented times and I think we all witnessed something of which I hope, will never be experienced again. Lockdowns were common, and manufacturing partners were forced into highly restrictive workforce policies. The entire global supply chain for raw materials and bicycle parts collapsed.” But of course, there was a lot more to the pandemic….
As demand for bikes soared to unprecedented and unsustainable levels, only the global brands were in a position to secure stock. We simply could not obtain sufficient parts/components and we literally had to cancel orders as there were no guarantees as to when bikes would be completed.
Version 3 however, did usher in some transitions of which are now viewed as the norm. The switch from rim brake to disc brake and the trend for full internal cable routing.
FR1 – Version 4 – 2021-Present
David says “This version FR1 is simply magnificent. When you’re rolling along at speed, the bike literally hums along the road, providing superior performance and incredible stability. To say I am proud as to where FR1 is today, would be an understatement of volcanic measure. It is simply sensational.”
And so here we are, with version 4 of our FR1 model. Faster, more aero, more dynamic and to top it all off, FR1 is now UCI Approved which means you can race this bike at the highest level around the globe. FR1 will obey your every command.
David goes on to say “When you believe you have perfected something, how do you improve? How can you take perfection further? Is there room for improvement? In all honesty, I have always believed that things can be improved, but at the moment, I may even doubt myself, for this model FR1, well it really is a stunning bike.”
FR1 – BUILT JUST FOR YOU
Have you ever bought a new bike, only to later change your saddle, or handlebar, or handlebar stem? Maybe you’ve had to change the cassette or chainrings because your new bike didn’t quite meet your exact requirements? And how much extra did you have to pay in order to make those changes?
Why buy a bike built for the masses, when you can have a bike built specifically for you, and one where you can even choose your own colour scheme and have a FREE bike and saddle fitting session..!! What’s not to like?
With complete 105 Di2 builds starting from just £3195.00. it really does make sense to consider a Redchilli FR1. From the outset your bike will indeed be built specifically for YOU and one that WILL have a correct saddle, stem length, stem height, bar width, crank length, chainrings, cassette. No more additional cost when you ride away.
,
LEARN MORE ABOUT REDCHILI FR1
It’s really quite simple; this is Your Bike – Your Way matched with Quality and Value. If you have an ideal build spec in mind, then contact us and we will happily build your FR1 just how you want it.
However, if you’re not too sure about your Di2’s from your eTaps, or your thread-lock BB86’s to your BB30’s, then please do not worry. Before any bike build gets under way, it’s always good to know a little more about you and what you want from your next bike. Whether this specifically be FR1, or indeed, any of our bikes. Over a coffee and a few biscuits, we will discuss in detail your cycling activities and from this, we can then start to discuss which bike would best suit you and advise on appropriate build specification.
Our aim is to build you the best possible bike for your budget, and also to bring you a bike that will match (and no doubt exceed) your exact requirements. No If’s, no but’s.
