Basso has released an update to its long-standing endurance road bike, the Astra. With a shorter reach and taller stack, the new Astra is slightly more relaxed than its predecessor, which Basso says makes the bike less nervous and more comfortable.
The bike carries many elements over from its predecessor, such as Basso’s unique 3B Clamp System II gen seatpost clamp and Paradigma handlebar system.
Though previously only one of the wheel options, Basso’s Microtech wheels are now included as standard in the Astra Disc’s build options, with either the MR Lite or RE 38s available at every tier.
The cockpit is fully integrated and compatible with hydraulic, electronic and mechanical components, as the bike can be purchased with Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo groupsets, but it is worth noting that the Astra is only available in a disc brake guise.
Accompanying the more relaxed geometry, the newest Astra now boasts up to 35mm tyre clearance, and the brand suggests the smallest tyre size that should be used with the frameset is 28mm.
Now with more potential to tackle light gravel rides, Basso has equipped the bike with new paint, which it says is more durable and water-repellent.
Prices start from €2,499 for the frame kit (including headset, seatpost, stem and handlebars) up to 6,824€ for a full build with SRAM Force eTap AXS and Microtech RE38 disc wheels.
A wider audience
The Astra currently sits in the middle of Basso’s road bike range, with other more expensive models such as the racy Diamante and cheaper models like the entry-level all-rounder Venta.
The less aggressive geometry, Basso says, is aimed at making it more suitable for amateur riders, but isn’t so chilled as to alienate those who wish to ride fast.The frame features dropped seatstays, a 12mm higher stack and a 3mm shorter reach, which should create a slightly more relaxed riding experience.
The Astra Disc makes use of Basso’s proprietary 3B Clamp System, which utilises three bolts to secure the seatpost and Basso claims the rubberised metal insert helps damp vibration coming up through the frame, making for a more comfortable riding experience.
The seatpost also has two different setback options, either -15mm or 0mm, so can offer more adjustment to overall ride feel.
Venturing further afield
With clearance for wider tyres, the Astra is now no longer pitched as just an out-and-out road bike, but one also fit to handle gentler off-road riding.
Though the bike does not feature any mudguard mounts for the added protection that gravel riding may demand, the paintwork has apparently been updated to include ceramic nanoparticles, which Basso says makes it more resistant, water-repellent and less porous.
Under the Buchholz Indentation test, performed by Basso, the new paint is said to be stronger than previous editions, and Basso will offer the tougher finish in three different colour options on the Astra.
Full integration
A new addition to the Astra is Basso’s PARADIGMA integration system, which integrates all hoses and cables from lever to frame, streamlining the bike’s look.
The system works for mechanical cabling as well as Di2, allowing a wide range of groupset compatibility.
Despite fully concealing the cable routing, the PARADIGMA stem is not fully enclosed, rather acting more as a cover than a housing. Basso says this allows easier access for repairs and reassembly, not to mention set up adjustments.
As part of Basso’s build customisation, the cockpit is available in 12 different configurations (four stem lengths and 3 handlebar widths), accommodating a wide range of rider preferences and needs. The frame itself comes in sizes all the way from 45cm to 61cm, at 2-3cm intervals.
Specifications
Basso Astra 2023, SRAM Force eTap AXS
Frameset: Basso Astra
Groupset: SRAM Force eTap AXS
Wheels: Microtech RE 38 disc wheelset
Tyres: Continental Ultra Sport
Price: £5,888 / €6,824 / $7,082 (€5,774 with Microtech MR Lite wheelset)
Basso Astra 2023, Ultegra R8170 Di2
Frameset: Basso Astra
Groupset: Shimano Ultegra R8170 Di2
Wheels: Microtech RE 38 disc wheelset
Tyres: Continental Ultra Sport
Price: £5,707 / €6,614 / $6,864 (€5,564 with Microtech MR Lite wheelset)
Basso Astra 2023, SRAM Rival eTap AXS
Frameset: Basso Astra
Groupset: SRAM Rival eTap AXS
Wheels: Microtech RE 38 disc wheelset
Tyres: Continental Ultra Sport
Price:£5,004 / €5,799 / $6,018 (€4,899 with Microtech MR Lite wheelset)
Basso Astra 2023, Campagnolo Chorus
Frameset: Basso Astra
Groupset: Campagnolo Chorus
Wheels: Microtech RE 38 disc wheelset
Tyres: Continental Ultra Sport
Price: £4,983 / €5,775 / $5,993 (€4,778 with Microtech MR Lite wheelset)
Basso Astra 2023, Shimano 105 R7100 Di2
Frameset: Basso Astra
Groupset: Shimano 105 R7100 Di2
Wheels: Microtech RE 38 disc wheelset
Tyres: Continental Ultra Sport
Price: £4,529 / €5,249 / $5,447 (€4,195 with Microtech MR Lite wheelset)