Test Cinelli Pressure II: versatile under certain conditions

The Italian brand Cinelli is renowned for its artistic creations, the result of collaborations with prestigious designers. Since 2020, it has offered a racing-style frame, the Pressure, which evolved last year into the Pressure II, a model combining aesthetics and performance. We have it testand for you.

By Bruno Cavelier – Photos: Michèle Calvi

Almost four years ago, we had testis the Pressure, a true racing beast, resolutely aerodynamic, with advanced integration and extreme rigidity thanks to its T800 carbon monocoque frame. This bike was part of the trend for high-performance models, while retaining the distinctive touch of Cinelli, both in terms of aesthetics and technical know-how. Very aerodynamic, it displayed remarkable rigidity, but was limited in hightagand too demanding for an unfit cyclist. Having enjoyed this model, we wanted to discover its successor, the Pressure II.

If the geometry remains unchanged and the frame is still in monocoque carbon, the mold has been redesigned, particularly at the seat tube levelThe first Pressure's frame followed the curve of the rear wheel to optimize aerodynamics; the Pressure II's is straight and refined. The seatpost, clamping mechanism and cable routing have also been revised, reducing the frame's weight by more than 100g compared to its predecessor.

Available with several groupsets – Shimano Di2 (Dura-Ace, Ultegra, 105) or SRAM Red eTap AXS, but no more Campagnolo and mechanical groupsets –, The Ultegra model comes in two versions: with Fulcrum 600 wheels at €6500, or Fulcrum Wind wheels at €7500. With a frameset at €4100, these prices remain attractive, depending on whether you already have a good pair of wheels or not.

Upgrade

We have testThis is the version equipped with the entry-level Fulcrum 600 wheels, but to match the frame's performance level, we replaced them with Prymahl Orion C50 Pro Disc Evo wheels, mounted tubeless with 28mm Pirelli P Zero Race tires. The frame allows up to 32mm of tire clearance.

We also changed the saddle – not for any quality issue, the Selle Italia Novus Boost Evo Superflow, in Cinelli special edition, being an excellent option – but to use our already well-tested Fizik Vento Antares R1 Carbon.

With Look Keo Blade Ceramic TI pedals and two Elite Custom Race Plus bottle cages, the bike weighs 7,530 kg in size S. Finished in white, enhanced with a light gray rear and typical Cinelli details (like a smiley face on the back of the fork crown), its design is remarkable. The frame is also available in dark green with a pink rear – less to our taste – and in a Team version, much bolder.

What changes

Moving from one model to its successor allows you to appreciate the changesThe seat post clamping has been modified: previously ensured by a screw at the top of the tube, it is now more classic, at the front of the post. More practical, this system uses a rubber cover which seems fragile in the long term.

The seatpost has also evolved: the old system, adaptable to all rails via stop screws, sometimes generated creaking. Cinelli has opted for a traditional mount, supplied with two clamps (for carbon or standard rails), which we prefer.

On the aerodynamic side, the wheel axles are hidden by the carbon of the fork, a neat aesthetic detail, but which requires axles of precise length in the event of replacement.

Finally, the hanger: the new pilot positiontagThe slimmer e-bike abandons the Vision Metron's custom-made meter holder in favor of a standard model. The problem: the latter points upwards, making it unsuitable for a racing position. We had a 3D-printed part made to align the meter horizontally.

On route

The monocoque frame, designed with optimized carbon fibers, gains in lightness and versatilityThe tubes are designed for maximum aerodynamics, with lowered seatstays, but the straight seat tube no longer hugs the rear wheel. The head tube adopts a distinctive shape at the junction with the down tube. Everything is integrated, from the cockpittage to the cables, and the frame is designed exclusively for electronic groupsets. The smiley on the rear of the fork seems bytagand our enthusiasm to ride this mount.

On our usual 40 km route – routes varied, straight lines, turns, false flats and a hill of more than 10% – the bike proves itself to be up to the task. With geometry identical to the old model, handling is immediate. From the first turns of the pedal, the rigidity is evident, but the Pressure II seems more manageable when restarting, encouraging you to stay in the dance position.

The Pressure II is a frame in line with those currently used by professional cyclists: aerodynamic, but quite versatile, provided you are very well trained.

At over 40 km/h on the flat, its aerodynamic profile is fully expressed, making you want to accelerate. The rear pushes, the front guides, and nothing moves. In corners taken at speed, the bike is responsive and more versatile than its predecessor.

Uphill, on a 2 km slope at 4-5%, the rigidity allows you to keep the momentum without forcing. The winding descent confirms the stability of route impeccable, reinforced by the 28 mm tires inflated to 4,5 bars. On a more demanding 4 km climb with passages of more than 7%, with flexible pedaling (80 rpm on the small chainring), the bike remains docile. One last test on a 400 m wall at 10% shows that it passes smoothly, but its behavior on long passes remains to be evaluated in season.

A real racing bike

Used by the Italian UCI Continental team MBH Ballan CSB Colpack, the Pressure II is part of the line of frames for professional cyclists: aerodynamic, yet versatile enough for serious ridersIt is not designed for comfort or for cycle touring. Comfort depends only on a well-adjusted position, with a balanced weight distribution between the seat, hands and pedals. A somewhat sophisticated bike, but one that quickly becomes addictive once you get the hang of it.

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