(Written by Emilio Previtali)
What science and mathematical calculation can't fully explain about cycling is one of its most important variables: the transformation of physical effort and fatigue into pure joy, a mysterious and seemingly paradoxical process at its core.
Climbing a great Alpine col, or holding a long flat straight in the draft of the riders ahead, carving descents with millimetric precision, or glancing back one last time at your bike before switching off the garage light and heading upstairs for a well-earned shower — this is joy in its purest form.
From this point of view, amateurs and professionals aren't so different: all of us cyclists love not just cycling, but our bikes. We all look to the frame, the components, the aesthetics of the bike for everything that can bring us joy and make us happy, at least for as long as we're in the saddle, pedaling.
It's with this idea in mind, and on these principles which place the needs of amateurs and professionals on equal footing, that we worked to create Strada ITALIA X, the new 3T flagship bike dedicated to road cycling.
Here's how the new 2027 version is built.
CARBON, FIRST OF ALL
The frame of Strada ITALIA X, like every bike in the ITALIA and ITALIA X range, begins with a continuous carbon-fiber thread and is manufactured in our factory in Presezzo, in the province of Bergamo. Thanks to our proprietary Filament Winding and RTM – Resin Transfer Molding processes, every frame is built, painted, and assembled in Italy.
Our production cycle has reached a level of quality — including aesthetic quality — in the woven carbon fiber that allows us to proudly leave the carbon exposed. Strada ITALIA X represents the current state of the art of our Strada project, and the pinnacle of our reshoring journey so far, dating back to 2018.
QUALITY, ON DISPLAY
The aesthetic quality of Strada ITALIA X's carbon is so high that for 2027 we've decided to offer it in three special exposed-carbon versions. Alongside the now-classic Project X Matte, we've added the Glossy version, which offers an even clearer, more detailed view of the carbon fiber weave, and the new INKED finish, defined by an unmistakable chromatic identity in shades of orange, green, and blue.
The translucent color of the new INKED version is applied over the carbon, leaving it visible and enhancing its reflections, tones, and the crossing pattern of the weave. Across all three naked versions, a thin outer layer of transparent coating protects the surface in a finish that is both minimal and performance-driven, celebrating the material and the superb construction.
Exposed carbon is a hallmark of the entire ITALIA X range, and it expresses, authentically and honestly, the direct link between the aesthetic appearance of 3T frames and the precision of the manufacturing process.
A REFINED BALANCE BETWEEN PERFORMANCE AND COMFORT
Beyond its construction and the type of carbon fiber used, Strada ITALIA X stands out for its modern, balanced shapes, which weigh aerodynamics and comfort in equal measure.
At 3T, we were pioneers in studying aerodynamics under real-world conditions, the first to test gravel bikes designed for off-road use and exploration. The Strada is no exception. The frame — with its large down tube, curved seat tube contouring the rear wheel, and a fork characterized by a distinctive forward-projecting nose and large aerodynamic side surfaces — is modern and efficient.
At 3T, we were the first to study bike shapes and proportions with an eye to the growing trend toward wider tires, between 30 and 35mm, and the possibilities offered by 1x setups. The result is a modern, no-compromise road bike, capable of delivering top aerodynamic performance in the wind tunnel while still guaranteeing riding comfort even on rough asphalt and after many hours in the saddle.
THE X EXPERIENCE
Strada ITALIA X is designed as a complete system, built from the best frames in our production, paired with top-tier groupsets, wheels, and components from the best brands. The clearest expression of this approach is the new integrated 3T Uno GHIAIA cockpit, supplied as standard across the entire ITALIA X range, including the Strada model. The new Uno handlebar reflects our renewed commitment to designing high-end integrated components — a commitment that defined 3T's earliest days, before we began building complete Made in Italy bikes.
The guiding concept behind the entire ITALIA X range is a shift toward a user experience that goes beyond pure technological quality. That's why every Strada ITALIA X leaves our factory equipped with an integrated NFC tag that certifies its identity. A dedicated app for iOS and Android, arriving in late 2026, will allow owners to register their bike, verify its authenticity, and access product information and services reserved for owners. This will create a direct line between 3T and its community of owners, who will be invited to take part in events, product previews, and visits to our production facility.
VERSIONS AND PRICING
STRADA ITALIA X FRAMESET | 5.082€ VAT EXC. | 6.657$ VAT EXC.
STRADA ITALIA X ULTEGRA Di2 2X12 SHARQ | 7.869€ VAT EXC. | 10.452$ VAT EXC.
STRADA ITALIA X FORCE 1X13 XPLR SHARQ | 7.869€ VAT EXC. | 10.452$ VAT EXC.
STRADA ITALIA X DURA-ACE PM Di2 2X12 SHARQ | 9.754€ VAT EXC. | 12.956$ VAT EXC.
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