Explore how Noah Fast of Uno-X made waves at Paris-Roubaix with his innovative gravel groupset and single chainring setup. Discover the advantages of this cutting-edge gear choice that helped him tackle the notorious cobblestones of the race, and learn why gravel technology is becoming a game-changer in professional cycling.
Last weekend, Paris-Roubaix — the ‘Hell of the North’ — took place. This race over the feared cobblestones of the Hauts-de-France demands a bike that is fully adapted to the conditions. The riders of Uno-X naturally chose the Noah Fast and ensured they were at the start in Compiègne in the best possible setup.
The powerful Norwegian Erik Nordsæter Resell — now lining up for his fifth edition of the Hellish Classic — immediately highlights the gravel groupset on the Noah Fast. Uno-X opts for SRAM Red XPLR. Last week, we already explained the advantages of this groupset in our blog. However, this weekend Uno-X goes for a very unique setup. At the rear, they are not using a 13-speed cassette, but a 12-speed version, ranging from 10 to 28 teeth.
With a 56-tooth chainring at the front, the riders had access to the “big ring.” In that sense, Paris-Roubaix is a relatively straightforward race, as there are no steep climbs requiring heavy downshifting. “We ride with the gravel GRC 1100 wheelset from DT Swiss,” the Norwegian continues. On these, the Continental Grand Prix 5000 S TR road tire is mounted. Uno-X opts for a 32 mm tire width, although the Noah Fast even allows up to 34 mm.
“Tire pressure depends on the rider,” Resell continues. “I personally choose 3.6 bar at the front and 3.7 at the rear.” “A final adjustment is the choice for double handlebar tape. This gives a bit more comfort.” With all these adjustments, the team has turned an aero performance race bike into a modern cobblestone machine. This clearly shows how the Noah Fast is built in line with current trends in the peloton.