完全新作！日本のクリテリウムに標準を絞ったアルミレースモデル「KhodaaBloom STRAUSS RACE 3 105 Di2（試作品）」の試乗をした感想！

All-new! My impressions after test-riding the "KhodaaBloom STRAUSS RACE 3 105 Di2 (prototype)," an aluminum race model designed specifically for Japanese criterium races!

October 2, 2024

Eirin Imadegawa-Kyōdai-mae Branch Annex

I test rode Khodaabloom's new model "STRAUSS RACE3," scheduled to be released around spring 2025, at a test ride event!

- Table of Contents -

"About the model, price, and size"
"About the frame performance"
"About the parts configuration"
"Impressions from the test ride"
"Summary of STRAUSS RACE 3 105 Di2"

2025.KhodaaBloom STRAUSS RACE 3 105 Di2

【Manufacturer's suggested retail price】¥396,000 (tax included)
【Color (1 color)】Black/Blue
【Sizes (approximate height)】420 (150-165cm), 460 (160-170cm), 490 (168-178cm), 530 (175-189cm)

About the frame performance of the STRAUSS RACE 3 105 Di2 (prototype)

KhodaaBloom's new model "STRAUSS RACE 3" is still under development as of current (Oct. 2024).

The specifications, frame geometry, and price have been largely decided, so it was unveiled this time, but the detailed parts of the frame will be polished up until just before release.

Therefore, the complete bike weight and other details are still undisclosed.

In 2024, the "STRAUSS RACE 2" was announced as a frameset-only model, but the STRAUSS RACE 2 was simply a model that acquired UCI certification for the existing "STRAUSS Disc series," and there were no major changes to the frame performance itself.

However, the "STRAUSS RACE 3," scheduled for release in spring 2025, will be released as a racing frame with completely new frame standards!

First, the frame design adopts a logo graphic that evokes a "afterimage," with the theme of "speed that the eye cannot follow."

In terms of frame geometry, it has been updated to allow for quicker riding than the previous RACE 2.

The head tube length and front center have been shortened, and the head angle has been steepened, resulting in a quicker ride with a more aggressive posture.

Dropped seat stays are adopted, contributing to responsiveness, vibration absorption, and aerodynamic effects.

The tire clearance is designed to accommodate 28c to 30c.

The front fork uses a carbon fork with a tapered steerer that enhances steering rigidity.

The previous RACE 2 gave a strong impression of being an all-rounder, but this model seems to be highly focused on speed and cornering.

*As this is a model under development, changes may occur.

▲Back to TOP

About the parts configuration of the STRAUSS RACE 3 105 Di2 (prototype)

The basic specifications adopt Shimano 105 Di2 (2×12 speed).

Although the frame design is a little different, the mechanical 105-grade "STRAUSS RACE 3 105" will also be released simultaneously, so please check that out as well.

The model I test-rode this time had special specifications, and the wheels and tires were not genuine.

The model to be commercialized is expected to feature Shimano hub aluminum wheels with MAXXIS HIGHROAD (700×28C)!

Am I the only one who thinks it's a bit unfair to install carbon wheels (P&P AQUILON) for a test ride event? 💦

▲Back to TOP

Impressions from test riding the STRAUSS RACE 3 105 Di2 (prototype)

My impressions from the test ride, assuming that further refinements will be made until just before release and changes may occur, are that it's a very quick road bike.

If you push it with the image of the previous RACE 2, the handlebars will chatter. I felt that I had to be very conscious of my upper body while riding.

It's not an all-rounder road bike, but it really gives the feeling that it's specialized for Japanese races (especially criteriums).

Also, I felt that the responsiveness/acceleration had significantly improved. As stated on the manufacturer's official website, this gives the impression that it will be effective for instantaneous power and maintaining high output in criterium races, and I realized that RACE 2 and RACE 3 are completely different road bikes!

▲Back to TOP

Summary of the 2025.KhodaaBloom STRAUSS RACE 3 105 Di2 (prototype)

A road bike made specifically for Japanese races (criteriums).
Still under development, so there's potential for further performance improvements.

In an age where carbon road bikes with 105 Di2 can be bought for around 400,000 yen, KhodaaBloom is taking an assertive stance by setting the same price for an aluminum frame.

The company is approaching the industry from a different angle, in an industry where the high-end aluminum frame category is shrinking and foreign brands are flocking.

The STRAUSS RACE 3 series was completed by focusing on Japanese body types and Japanese races.

We look forward to future developments!

▲Back to TOP

＼この記事を書いた店舗／