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Pro bike: Robbie Hunter’s Barloworld Bianchi 928 Carbon T-Cube

This might be the last year we see Dura-Ace 7800 in the upper tier of the pro ranks as it's already being replaced by the next generation.

  • Barloworld sprinter Robbie Hunter's Bianchi 928 Carbon T-Cube
  • Bianchi's new 928 Carbon T-Cube is supposedly the stiffest frame in the lineup.
  • Tube-to-tube construction yields smooth joints throughout the frame.
  • The 928 Carbon T-Cube uses dual seat stays instead of the more common wishbone setup.
  • The chain stays are reportedly beefed up relative to the lighter 928 Carbon SL to better suit a powerful rider like Hunter.
  • Mavic's Cosmic Carbone Ultimate is lightweight for rapid acceleration but also aerodynamic to cut through the air when Hunter is shooting for the line.
  • Hunter runs a Cosmic Carbone Ultimate out back, too.
  • The 40mm-deep all-carbon rims and carbon spokes are molded together.
  • The front hub sports a decidedly sleek profile.
  • Short threaded sections of spoke allow the rear wheel to be trued.
  • Shimano Dura-Ace 7800 STI Dual Control levers sit at the ready for Hunter when needed (although he probably just sticks it in the 11T and leaves it there come sprint time).
  • This might be the last year we see Dura-Ace 7800 in the upper tier of the pro ranks as it's already being replaced by the next generation.
  • This FSA front derailleur is unlike either of the models currently on offer so this one is either a redesign for '09 or a wholly new model to go along with the long-awaited complete drivetrain.
  • Barloworld also employs FSA for the SL-K dual-pivot brake calipers.
  • These carbon-specific pads wear the Mavic badge but are made using the SwissStop Yellow King compound.
  • Like many pro riders, Hunter prefers aluminum for his bar and stem.
  • These Look KeO Carbon pedals use stiffer steel spindles for less flex than their titanium counterparts.
  • A handy chain watcher provides a little bit of insurance against dropped chains.
  • The Miche collar uses a clever design to prevent crushed carbon seatposts.
  • Hunter's fi'zi:k Aliante saddle is built with a surprisingly flexible carbon-and-Kevlar shell.
  • Carbon cages, too? Sure, why not?
  • Given the presence of this Suunto speed sensor (but no computer head) we have to assume Hunter prefers to keep his computer on his wrist.
  • Hunter has yet to win a stage in this year's Tour but we'll be on the watch for him come the Champs-Élysées in Paris.

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This might be the last year we see Dura-Ace 7800 in the upper tier of the pro ranks as it's already being replaced by the next generation.

© James Huang