On flat terrain, weight reduction won't have a significant impact because at 50 km/h, 90% of the effort is directed towards overcoming aerodynamic disturbances. However, when descending, the heavier the bike, the faster it goes.

In this regard, numerous studies have been conducted, including those by Fred Grappe, the coach of the FDJ.fr team, whose tests are precise and reliable.

Gesualdo, Italy - Nestled in the heart of Irpinia, Forgione Telai company has been producing custom steel frame bicycles since its inception. Led by the passionate and skilled craftsman, Vincenzo Forgione, the company has earned recognition for its commitment to craftsmanship and personalized service. Being a bicycle enthusiast himself, Vincenzo understands the importance of a well-fitted and expertly assembled bicycle. In an extraordinary initiative, Forgione Telai now offers customers the option to have the purchased components installed for free. Forgione Telai provides two options, highlighting the exceptional service offered to bicycle enthusiasts worldwide.

Vincenzo Forgione: Sponsor of Giro della Sicilia 2023

Vincenzo Forgione is a renowned Italian frame builder and a cycling enthusiast. Known for his custom-made steel frames, he is also one of the sponsors of the prestigious Giro della Sicilia, a cycling race held annually in the enchanting scenery of the Sicilian island.

The Perfect Fusion: Unveiling the Q Factor Masterpiece Frame by Italian Craftsman Vincenzo Forgione - A Steel Frame Bicycle designed to accommodate MTB wheels up to 2"2 on a road frame

The Q Factor steel frame is an example of Italian artisanal engineering, meticulously handcrafted in steel by Forgione Telai.

The customer requested the creation of this frame because over time, he experienced issues with the outer quadriceps and knee while pedaling on the MTB, but not on the road bike. Analyzing all the differences in riding position between the two bikes, it was observed that the substantial difference between the two bikes was the Q-Factor, the distance between the outer points of the pedal cranks. On the MTB, it's possible to have the foot 18-20 mm wider on each side. If the Q-Factor is larger, the hip/knee/foot axis is altered, and this could lead to issues for some individuals.

The theoretical basis exists, but the studies conducted involve too few cases to have consistency. Currently, it's considered a strictly individual matter and should be addressed as such, for example, with specific exercises. However, this can be a lengthy process. Meanwhile, to continue off-road riding with a footprint larger than a typical gravel bike, the customer requested if it was possible to create a frame that would accommodate a crankset with a road-like Q-Factor and 29-inch MTB tires. A significant challenge indeed...

Mario and his track bike!

My friend Mario Thor had the patience to send me more photos of his bike, years after I built it.

For those who would like to see which model I'm referring to, here's the link to the article published in 2014 among the comments of the track bikes customers.

Our friend Vincenzo Ambrosio sent us an email with photos from his last lap of the climb which from Crissolo leads to Pian del Re.
I want to thank him for taking a handcrafted Forgione steel frame.