New 3T Ultra Italy, now manufactured in Italy and ready for anything

The gravel has evolved in recent years towards increasingly demanding terrains and longer routes. In this context, maintaining speed without losing control has become one of the major challenges. The new Ultra² Italy from 3T is born precisely to respond to that scenario, with an approach that does not seek to do everything, but to do it better for longer.

3T takes a step further in gravel with the new Ultra² Italy, now made in Italy and ready for suspension

The Italian brand presents a new generation of its Ultra platform that introduces relevant changes both in its manufacturing and in its concept of use, with the idea of maintaining efficiency even when the terrain gets complicated.

Manufacturing in Italy and new Fusion Carbon construction

The surname “Italy” is not just an aesthetic issue. The Ultra² Italy is now produced at 3T's facilities in Presezzo, following the same line as other recent models from the brand. This implies the use of its own processes based on dry filament winding and RTM molding, on which its carbon technology is built.

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The novelty lies in the introduction of a hybrid manufacturing system called Fusion Carbon. This method combines part of those proprietary technologies with more traditional elements, aiming to make 3T's internal production more accessible without giving up its structural advantages.

This change also impacts the product positioning. The Ultra² Italy becomes the most affordable model within the range made in Italy, with complete bikes starting from €4,098 before taxes.

A reinterpretation of the Ultra concept

More than a specific redesign, 3T proposes an evolution of the Ultra concept supported by three pillars: comfort, control, and capability.

In terms of position, the geometry adopts the “3Touring” approach, with a higher stack and a shorter reach than its more performance-oriented models. Even compared to the Extrema Italy, the stack grows by 10 mm, resulting in a more relaxed and sustainable posture on long routes or multi-day trips.

The front behavior has also been refined to offer a more predictable ride. The steering angle varies between 69° and 72° depending on the size, seeking stability without losing maneuverability in technical areas.

Where the leap is most noticeable is in the adaptability to the terrain. With the rigid Fango Ultra² fork, the frame accommodates tires up to 57 mm, a figure that opens the door to configurations clearly oriented towards very broken terrains. This is complemented by the use of standard 27.2 mm seat posts, compatible with both telescopic posts and suspension systems.

The key is efficiency

Although these changes aim to improve comfort and control, 3T focuses on real efficiency on changing terrain.

The idea is to reduce energy losses that occur when the cyclist has to brake, correct, or absorb constant impacts. Instead of seeking maximum speed in ideal conditions, the Ultra² Italy aims to maintain the pace when the terrain stops being perfect.

This approach connects both with ultra-distance cyclists and with users who simply seek a bike that does not force them to slow down every time the path gets complicated.

Ready for suspension fork from the start

One of the most distinctive points of the project is that compatibility with suspension is not an added feature later, but part of the design from the beginning.

3T offers as an option the DT Swiss F 132 ONE fork, with 40 mm of travel, remote locking from the handlebar, and additional load capacity. Compared to the rigid fork, the system adds approximately 1 kg to the overall weight.

In use, the suspension seeks to improve vibration absorption beyond what large volume tires allow, greater contact of the front wheel with the ground, and the reduction of energy losses on uneven terrain.

All this without altering the position on the bike or its overall behavior, something that 3T has tried to keep consistent with its gravel performance DNA.

Designed for travel and real use

The Ultra² Italy has also been designed with a practical focus. The frame incorporates multiple anchor points for racks, fenders, and bags, as well as an internal compartment in the diagonal tube with a magnetic closure system.

Compatibility with mechanical and electronic drivetrains allows for simpler configurations for long trips, and the rigid fork accommodates internal routing for a dynamo, a detail clearly oriented towards bikepacking.

Models and prices

The 3T Ultra² Italy is offered in four sizes (S, M, L, and XL) and colors: Avorio, Bamboo, Glicine, and Lavico. The range is articulated in five complete builds, differentiated by drivetrain and wheel type. Here are the prices for the European market before taxes:

• GRX 1x12 with aluminum wheels:  €4,098
• GRX 1x12 Di2 with aluminum wheels:  €4,835
• SRAM Rival / GX Eagle AXS with aluminum wheels:  €4,835
• GRX 1x12 Di2 with Discus 45|40 wheels:  €5,737
• SRAM Rival / GX Eagle AXS with Discus 45|40 wheels:  €5,737

In any of these builds, the DT Swiss F 132 ONE Suspension Fork can be added for an additional €819.

More information on the 3T website.