Technical
ABOUT VALDORA TRIATHLON GEOMETRY
- Triathlon Geometry
- Designed for Triathletes
- Maximize Aerodynamics Through Comfort and Performance
- Frame Construction
- Versatility (brakes, fork…)
- Customization (bicycle package)
- Commitment to Excellence
Triathlon Geometry
VALDORA triathlon geometry is unlike any other that we know of. It was developed and tested in 2001 as the AC-Tri (alloy compact–triathlon) frame. Over the next three years it was tweaked to perfection before opening the molds for the PHX carbon frames in 2006. VALDORA has achieved an aero frame with triathlon specific angles that is responsive and climbs and descends with the ease of a road bike yet leaves the triathlete feeling fresh for the run. The unique configuration of adjustable seat tube angle (73 – 79 degrees for the PHX2), low bottom bracket, and taller head tube, with a more aggressive angle is how this was achieved.
June 2010 – UK’s 220Triathlon publication. “The PHX tackled some real steep climbs and trouser-changingly scary descents almost with the ease of a regular road bike”…” Valdora is no slacker and really gives the impression that this is a triathlon machine. You find yourself in the perfect body position aboard the PHX, taking a lot of strain off the quads and shifting work to the hamstrings in preparation for the run leg” Read the rest of the REVIEW
Designed For Triathletes
A VALDORA frame will perform the same for a 125 lb. time trialist as a 225 lb. former football player. The design factors that make Valdora frames superior for triathlon also make them superior for athletes of all ages, sizes and abilities. VALDORA frames are semi compact. The sloping top tube makes the bike easier to mount after the swim and easier to dismount before the run. Not to mention easier for shops/fitters to size riders on all the while needing to stock fewer sizes. A taller head tube means fewer spacers under the stem resulting in minimal power loss from steer tube flex. The semi compact geometry makes the frame stiffer, stronger, and lighter. No loss of power from bottom bracket flex. Most riders will find that they can spend more time in the aerobars, in comfort, compared to other tri bikes. The angles and vibration absorbing carbon leave the triathlete fresh for the run. After all, triathlon is a three discipline sport.
Maximize Aerodynamics Through Comfort and Performance
While Valdora frames are super aero (see Technical pages), they are designed to maximize aerodynamics through comfort. The design results in no recognizable flex on the front of the frame as well as no power loss when even the strongest of riders is hammering away. In fact, in many instances, riders are comfortable in the saddle and aerobars while climbing. Nothing like going up a slight grade in aero bars passing riders who are out of the saddle! More gains on the flats, eyes facing straight forward (no aero helmet sharks). Valdora bikes climb with out losing power and descend without feeling scary. Valdora bikes are slippery fast and aero on the flats. With Valdora geometry you’ll see far fewer aero helmet sharks and even fewer wind sail triathletes sitting up every 10-20 minutes due to neck, shoulder or lower back soreness, tightness, etc. Losing speed and power on the climbs, slowing on descents, not realizing optimum comfort in the aero position leaves the triathlete out side of the aero position.
Frame Construction
VALDORA frames are semi compact which contributes to making them lighter, stiffer and stronger. Because they were designed with climbing, descending and athletes of all size in mind, Valdora’s frame construction has always been in the fore front. They are responsive, and they don’t flex. VALDORA frames perform the same for a 135 lb. rider or a 235 lb. rider. What it comes down to is VALDORA’s OCRR Technology which is a description of the out come from our carbon lay-up and molding process. It combines the highest grades of carbon prepreg in different combinations, in varying numbers of layers and angles. All hand placed at specific regions of the frame to tune the ride. There are plenty of reviews that back up these claims. VALDORA has earned the highest possible strength and fatigue certification available in the bicycle industry. This is know in the industry as the “Full Test” and is made up of 100,000 cycles at high force on the head tube, seat tube, and bottom bracket of a single frame. Few attempt to get this certification and of those that do, few pass. VALDORA’s PHX was only the 3rd carbon tt/triathlon frame ever to pass at the highest level possible. So, 50 mph down hill on a 2.5 lb. VALDORA carbon frame….no worries.
Versatility
VALDORA triathlon bikes do not require behind the fork or under the bottom bracket brakes. We find these difficult for the end user to adjust and lacking in terms of performance. Any road bike brake caliper set can be utilized on a Valdora frame. Valdora frames have a replaceable break away rear derailleur hanger and the PHX2 frames also have a replaceable front derailleur hanger. Valdora frames do not come with a mal-functioning adjustable stem or a clunky integrated fork front end. No integrated frame seat ‘mast’ that has to be trimmed and happens to make shipping a bike nearly impossible. Valdora frames require a common 68 mm BSA threaded bottom bracket. The horizontal drop outs allow riders to snug the tire in as aero as possible to the seat tube for maximum aerodynamics. The spring loaded set screws in the drop outs are adjustable without having to remove the rear wheel. Valdora frames have threaded bosses for two water bottle cages. Want or need to take a season off from triathlon? VALDORA geometry builds up very nicely as an aero road bike.
Customizable
VALDORA lists several suggested bicycle component spec’s for each triathlon bike model. These are not the only options though. VALDORA can offer any component group and most wheel sets. Whether the bike is sent off as a frameset and build kit or complete bike, the customer can customize as much as they desire. There is not a premium frameset + custom build kit charge since assembly takes place in Tempe, AZ USA.
Commitment to Excellence
In the carbon bicycle frame business since 1997, VALDORA is committed to offering the highest quality product possible. Research and development are never ending. Customer service is of utmost importance. Suggestions and questions from customers are taken seriously. We will have a solution if there is a problem. If we don’t know the answer to a question, we will find an answer. VALDORA offers a money back guarantee. Our carbon frames are backed by a life time warranty against materials and workmanship. If you have a question, suggestion, or complaint, you can always reach us.
THE TECHNOLOGY
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(Left) 3D CAD drawing of the PHX-2 frame |
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Valdora carbon frames are constructed of only the highest grade carbon and resins. Utilizing Valdora's proprietary Optimum Composite Resonant Ratio Technology (OCRR), Valdora has the knowledge and ability to achieve the ride quality and power transfer that is among the best in the world. Every piece of carbon is hand trimmed and meticulously placed where it belongs. Layers of carbon are placed at different angles, thicknesses, and differing grades or modulous to achieve the "tuned" ride characteristic we and our customers demand. (Left) A bottom bracket shell / down tube section is on the way to becoming an aero frame. |
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INSTRUCTIONS
PHX/PHX-1 pdf Specs and Instructions
AC-Tri.pdf Specs and Instructions
For additional information.
WARRANTY
Valdora Warranty
Products Manufactured / Branded as Valdora are warranted against any manufacturing defects in materials and/or workmanship for the original owner for the following: carbon frames - life time / all other products - 1 year. With an original proof of purchase we will repair or replace, at our discretion, any defective frame/part with the same or comparable model (due to product evolution).
What is Not Covered
This warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, or normal maintenance items, or any damage, failure, or loss caused by accident, misuse, abuse, neglect, improper assembly, improper maintenance, or use of parts or devices not consistent with the original intent for the product sold, or failure to follow instruction for installation, assembly, or use. This warranty does not cover any products made by OI, Inc./Valdora but branded by another company. Such products bear their own seller's warranty.
Components offered by Valdora (not produced by Valdora) bear their own manufacturer's warranty. Any claims must be directed to said manufacturer's customer service department.
Warranty Void
This product is not intended for use in stunt riding, ramp jumping, acrobatics, or similar activities, or with motors or power-driven vehicles. This warranty is VOID where the Valdora / bp Stealth product has been used in any of these ways.
NOTICE: The user assumes the risk of any personal injuries, damages to, or failures of the products, and any other losses if the Valdora product has been used in any such event.
Incidental Consequential Liability for Damages
In no event shall Valdora or its' affiliated companies be liable for incidental or consequential damages. Proof of purchase is required to validate protection under the limited warranty or crash replacement warranty.
Important Point Regarding Warranty
This warranty applies only to the original owner. All claims should be processed through an authorized Valdora retailer. This warranty is void if your bicycle is subjected to abuse, alterations, modifications, improper maintenance, or other abnormal, excessive, or improper conditions. Freight costs are the responsibility of the owner.
Crash Replacement Warranty
Valdora stands by their products. The original owner may simply return a copy of the original invoice, along with the Valdora part that has been damaged. No questions asked. We will replace it with the applicable product of identical or similar value for a deeply discounted price (approx. 35% off suggested retail price at time of replacement). All Valdora branded / manufactured products are covered by this crash replacement warranty. Contact your local retailer or representative of Valdora for replacement costs.
****Damage to carbon steer tubes upon installation is not covered under the crash replacement warranty. Additionally, a compression cap made specifically for a carbon steer tube must be used for installation - DO NOT USE A NORMAL STAR NUT AS PROVIDED WITH THREADLESS HEAD SET! Valdora offers the correct carbon steer tube compression cap.
Length of Crash Warranty - Lifetime of Valdora product / for original owner. Valdora reserves the right to alter this warranty at any time.
Filing A Claim
All warranty claims should include:
- a dated copy of the original sales receipt
- a detailed explanation of the claim
- the Valdora product being returned for warranty claim
***All shipping charges are the responsibility of the claimant
e-mail for a return confirmation code and return address - returns will NOT be accepted without a code.
