Bikeradar gallery

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

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.

  • 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.

Showing 22 of 23

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.

© James Huang