Wilier Road Bikes 2025 Review: After 1,000 Miles of Testing
Wilier road bikes combine a century of Italian cycling heritage with innovative technology you can't ignore. My 1,000-mile journey with their 2025 lineup showed what makes these lightweight machines unique. The flagship Zero SLR tips the scales at sub-800g—lighter than your morning coffee—and delivers 24% more stiffness than its predecessors.
Extensive testing has given me a clear picture of each model's capabilities. The Wilier Granturismo SLR features the unique ACTIFLEX 2.0 damping system. This endurance bike maintains an aggressive feel that's perfect for spirited riding. Wind tunnel testing shaped the aero-optimized Filante SLR, which delivers peak efficiency at just 870g. The carbon monocoque Garda 105 and Filante SL make Wilier's performance DNA more available to riders. These Wilier road bikes stack up well against competitors, each with unique strengths that suit different riding styles.
Want to find which Wilier road bike matches your style? Let's take a closer look at what 1,000 miles of real-life testing revealed about these Italian thoroughbreds.
Wilier 2025 Road Bike Lineup: What’s New This Year
Wilier has given their road bike lineup a complete makeover for 2025 with major improvements to all models. The Italian bike maker keeps redefining the limits of what's possible through careful engineering and rider input. These changes are some of the biggest updates to their road bikes in recent years.
Updated Models and Frame Technologies
The 2025 collection shows Wilier's expertise in advanced carbon layup techniques. Their flagship Filante SLR now sports an improved monocoque design with carefully placed high-modulus carbon fibers that make the frame 7% lighter than before. The Granturismo SLR features a new carbon composite that gives better vertical compliance without losing lateral stiffness.
The 2025 models stand out because Wilier has brought their "Carbon Core" technology to more bikes at different price points. This manufacturing process used to be only on top-end models. It creates more precise fiber orientation and gets rid of extra resin, which makes frames lighter and more reliable. The Zero SLR, Wilier's climbing specialist, now weighs just 790g (size medium) and has better torsional rigidity.
The company has added integrated cable routing to all carbon models. The mid-range Garda now has fully internal cable management that makes the bike more aerodynamic and better looking. The new frame designs have subtle aero improvements to tube profiles, which you'll notice on the down tubes and seat stays of non-aero specific models.
Electronic Shifting and Disk Brake Standardization
The biggest change in Wilier's 2025 lineup is that electronic shifting comes standard on all but entry-level models. The Filante SLR, Zero SLR, and Granturismo SLR only come with Shimano Di2 or SRAM AXS groupsets. This shows how the industry is moving away from mechanical shifting systems at premium price points.
Hydraulic disk brakes now come standard on all road bikes. This makes sense given how much better these brakes perform and modulate, especially on long downhills or in bad weather. The frames and forks are built specifically to handle disk brake forces, with thru-axles (12x100mm front, 12x142mm rear) that add stiffness and keep wheels aligned perfectly.
Wilier has added "Smart Mount" technology to their brake caliper attachments. This clever feature lets you make micro-adjustments without tools, which makes brake setup and maintenance much easier for home mechanics and bike shops.
Customization Options and Fit Systems
Riders want different things from their bikes, so Wilier has expanded their customization program for 2025. You can now get semi-custom paint schemes through their "Infinitamente" program on certain models. This lets cyclists create unique colorways while keeping Wilier's signature look.
The integrated cockpit systems now offer more fit options. The Zero Bar comes in seven widths (from 38cm to 44cm in 1cm steps) and has a new ergonomic shape that feels better on long rides. Stem lengths range from 80mm to 140mm, so riders of any size can find their perfect fit.
The new "3D Fit" system uses digital body scanning to suggest the right frame size, stem length, handlebar width, and saddle position. You can get this service at authorized Wilier dealers. It's a great way to make sure you're in the best position on your bike.
Most models still let you choose standard stems and handlebars if that's what you prefer, though integrated systems look better and cut through the air more efficiently. These expanded fit options show that Wilier knows comfort leads to better performance, especially on longer rides.
Wilier's 2025 road bikes show how they keep innovating while staying true to their century-old Italian cycling heritage. Better frame technology, updated components, and more customization options help these bikes stay competitive in today's sophisticated market.
Wilier Filante SLR: Aero Performance at Its Peak
The Filante SLR leads Wilier's road bike lineup as their aero flagship. This speed machine blends race-ready performance with amazing lightness. I've spent time testing this bike and learned about what makes it such a great choice for riders who want aero efficiency without giving up climbing power.
Frame Weight and Aerodynamics
This aero beast comes with a super light frame weighing a mere 870 grams [1]. The complete bike weighs just 6.8 kg [2] with top-tier parts. That's quite an achievement for an aero road bike. You'll find it's lighter than all but one of its competitors in similar sizes and specs by more than half a kilogram [3].
Wilier's engineers took the Filante SLR beyond basic wind tunnel testing. They built this frame to shine in real-life conditions where riders face changing winds. The frame uses softer angles on its airfoil shapes instead of the sharp trailing edges you see on regular NACA and KAMM tail designs [2]. This helps the bike perform better in messy air - something that happens all the time on actual rides.
The sort of thing I love is the front fork design. It's 7mm wider than older models (13.6% more than the Cento10PRO) [2]. The extra space between fork blades and wheel cuts down turbulence and helps with aero efficiency when winds change. The frame uses high-modulus carbon fibers mixed with Liquid-Crystal Polymer to create a stiff yet light structure.
Integrated Cockpit and Handling
The Filante's monocoque carbon handlebar combines smoothly with the frame. It uses the same advanced carbon materials to keep the front-end performance consistent [4]. This one-piece system boosts front-end stiffness by 12.5% compared to older models [5]. The result? You get razor-sharp handling and confident descending.
Wilier's Accufit system offers amazing fit options. Riders can choose from 240 different combinations of stem lengths and spacer options to find their perfect position. The best part? It doesn't mess with the bike's aero benefits or looks [2]. The cockpit feels great too, with soft, rounded hoods and well-shaped drops that work for different hand sizes.
This bike handles like a true racer. It stays lively and quick to respond, even with its aero focus. The geometry keeps the center of gravity low, so the bike sticks to the road through corners with Ferrari-like precision at high speeds [6]. You'll love how it stays composed yet responsive on fast descents.
Ideal Use Cases and Limitations
The Filante SLR shines brightest in these scenarios:
- Fast, flat courses where aero efficiency matters most
- Technical descents that demand precise handling
- Competitive events from criteriums to road races
- Riders wanting one race bike that climbs well while staying aero
But it's not perfect for everything. The frame fits tires up to maximum width of 30mm [2], which might limit its all-road use compared to some other bikes. The aggressive, forward position helps with aero but might feel tough during long climbs or ultra-distance rides [6].
The stiff front end gives you precise control but sends more road buzz through than comfort-focused bikes. The flattened seat stays help with vertical compliance, but riders who want more comfort for long distances might prefer the Wilier Granturismo SLR.
The Filante SLR shows off Wilier's best speed-focused engineering. It's built for riders who want aero efficiency and quick handling without losing that light climbing ability that makes Italian racing bikes special.
Wilier Granturismo SLR: Endurance Meets Speed
Wilier's 2025 Granturismo SLR stands out by perfectly balancing speed and all-day comfort. This endurance-focused bike features innovative suspension technology while keeping the lively ride quality that Italian road bikes are famous for.
ACTIFLEX 2.0 Suspension System
The Granturismo SLR's core feature is its groundbreaking Actiflex 2.0 vibration damping system. The rear wheel can move up to 5mm vertically [7]. This new suspension system builds on the success of the award-winning Cento10 NDR. The system sits where the seat tube meets the top tube and stays protected from dirt, mud, and rain - a smart upgrade from the previous version [8].
Four sealed bearings and a viscoelastic elastomer work together to absorb road vibrations. Premium models with Shimano Dura Ace Di2, SRAM Red AXS, or Campagnolo Super Record WRL groupsets come with a special 3D-printed conformal lattice structure instead of the standard elastomer. This change reduces the frame weight by an additional 20 grams [8].
Actiflex 2.0's brilliance lies in how it adds comfort without losing performance:
- A carbon bridge connects both stays to keep the rear triangle stiff
- The system's placement near the seat tube/top tube junction adds rigidity
- You can easily take it apart for maintenance with a double-screw locking system
- It responds mainly to vertical impacts while staying responsive side-to-side
Geometry and Comfort for Long Rides
The bike's frame geometry makes it perfect for long rides. Wilier created a riding position that's a bit shorter and higher than typical racing bikes [8]. Riders feel less strain during long rides, yet the bike stays competitive without needing spacers between the handlebar stem and frame.
The bike handles much like Wilier's racing models [9]. This creates an endurance bike that feels quick and responsive, unlike some comfort-focused bikes that can feel slow. A monocoque handlebar with rounded ergonomic grips makes long rides more comfortable [8].
The frame looks balanced and maintains Wilier's racing heritage. Riders can choose from any Wilier Triestina monocoque and modular handlebar [8] to match their needs.
Tire Clearance and All-Road Capability
Modern road bikes need good tire clearance for versatility. The Granturismo SLR comes with 28mm tires [10] that balance comfort and speed. The frame fits tires up to 32mm wide [10][8], which helps smooth out rough roads without turning it into a gravel bike.
The 32mm limit shows that this bike belongs on the road [9]. Wilier aimed to build an endurance road bike that excels on pavement and handles rough patches well, rather than trying to make it do everything.
The wide fork crown helps with aerodynamics and tire clearance [8]. This design shows how Wilier added comfort features while keeping the bike fast. The Granturismo SLR remains a performance road bike at heart - it just keeps you fresher on longer rides.
Wilier Garda 105 and Filante SL: Mid-Range Options Reviewed
These Italian-crafted bikes don't need to be top-tier racing machines to bring joy to cyclists. Wilier's mid-range Filante SL and Garda 105 strike a sweet spot between performance and value. My experience spans hundreds of miles on both bikes, and here's how they compare to their premium counterparts.
Build Quality and Component Choices
The Filante SL takes after its flagship sibling, the Filante SLR, with its aerodynamic profile and racing spirit. A modified carbon layup adds approximately 150 grams to the frame weight [11]. The bike rides more comfortably without losing its competitive edge. You'll find the Filante SL only comes with electronic shifting and disk brakes [12], usually fitted with Shimano Ultegra Di2 or SRAM Rival AXS 12-speed groupsets [5].
My test ride with the Ultegra Di2 build smoothly combined Miche SWR Evo 50 carbon wheels with 28mm Schwalbe One Performance tires [13]. The setup felt responsive and stable. A monocoque handlebar keeps cables hidden inside, staying true to Wilier's clean design philosophy [11].
The Garda shows Wilier's take on endurance-focused carbon frames. Its NH-Mod carbon construction weighs about 1150g for a medium frame [5]. My test bike came with Shimano's 105 R7100 12-speed groupset and hydraulic disk brakes. The setup shifted reliably across its 50/34T crankset and 11-34T cassette [5]. Miche SWR Evo 40 wheels provide a nice mix of speed and comfort [5].
Ride Feel and Versatility
The Filante SL shares its racing geometry with its premium counterpart [14]. The bike puts you in a position that helps cut through the air. Road tests showed excellent straight-line speed and natural handling on descents. The frame managed to keep road vibrations minimal, which surprised me given its performance focus [13].
The bike's stack and reach measurements work well for competitive riding. You'll stay in an aggressive position that's still comfortable enough for longer rides [5]. The frame really shows its strength when you're climbing or sprinting.
The Garda takes a different approach with its modern endurance geometry. A taller stack height makes long rides more comfortable. The bike accepts tires up to 32mm wide, which helps a lot on rough roads [15]. My tests showed the Garda handles everything well - from smooth pavement to bumpy back roads.
Best Use Cases for Each Model
Here's where each bike shines based on my extensive testing:
The Filante SL (£5,999 with Ultegra Di2 [16]) works best for:
- Club racers who want pro-level aerodynamics without the premium cost
- Cyclists moving up from recreational to competitive riding
- Riders who love both looks and performance
The Filante SL gives you the racing experience [11] at a more reasonable price point.
The Garda (with 105 12-speed) fits perfectly for:
- Riders who want comfort during century rides
- Cyclists who tackle different road conditions
- Anyone looking for modern design without an aggressive position
The Garda proved itself as "the perfect product for those who love to ride a modern bike" [15]. It keeps you safe and comfortable on any terrain. This bike makes an excellent daily rider for enthusiasts who value versatility more than pure racing performance.
Both bikes carry Wilier's performance DNA in more affordable packages. Each has its own character that suits different riding styles.
Wilier Rave SL: Gravel and All-Road Versatility
Wilier's Rave SL stands out in their product line with a unique dual personality that lets riders tackle smooth tarmac and rugged gravel paths with confidence. This bike shows how Wilier understands the all-road category's evolution by delivering performance that redefines the limits of traditional riding categories.
Frame Design and Tire Clearance
The Rave SL carries the same racing spirit as its premium SLR counterpart but uses a different carbon fiber lamination process to balance performance and accessibility. The frame uses NHU-MOD carbon with reinforced impact strength and weighs just 140g more than its high-end SLR sibling [17]. This smart engineering choice keeps the bike responsive while making it tougher for off-road adventures.
The bike's versatility shines through its generous tire clearance that fits rubber up to 42mm wide [17]. Riders can switch between narrow tires for road rides and wider options for rougher terrain. A monocoque handlebar routes brake and control cables inside the frame for clean looks [18]. The integrated design features comfortable ergonomic shapes that make long rides more enjoyable across different surfaces.
Electronic Groupset Options
Riders can choose between electronic and mechanical disk brake systems [17] with several drivetrain options. Road enthusiasts will appreciate the Shimano Ultegra Di2 12-speed build with its 50-34T crankset and 11-30T cassette [19]. Gravel riders get their pick of Shimano GRX with a 40T single chainring and 10-51T cassette [18], Campagnolo Ekar GT 13-speed [20], or SRAM Rival XPLR AXS 12-speed groupsets [5]. Each option works great for mixed-terrain adventures.
Performance on Mixed Terrain
Real-world testing shows the Rave SL adapts remarkably well to different surfaces. The race-inspired geometry—available in six sizes from XS to XXL [17]—delivers quick handling without forcing riders into an aggressive racing position. Aerodynamic features inherited from the SLR platform [17] help maintain speed on smooth sections while keeping things stable on rough terrain.
The Rave SL outperforms dedicated gravel bikes on pavement and transitions smoothly to unpaved paths. This balanced design makes perfect sense for riders who want one versatile bike instead of separate road and gravel machines [21].
Real-World Testing: 1,000 Miles Across Models
My rides on Wilier's road bikes have covered 1,000 miles, and I've learned about these bikes beyond what marketing materials or spec sheets tell you. Taking these bikes on rides through different terrains showed me how each model handles at its limits in real-life conditions.
Climbing and Descending Performance
The Verticale SLR lives up to its climbing reputation. It weighs 10% less than the older Zero SLR climbing model [22]. You feel this weight advantage with each pedal stroke [23]. The bike responds quickly and makes climbs easier. It brings back that light, floating feeling we haven't seen since the rim-brake days [23].
The Filante SLR shines on descents. Its low center of gravity helps it corner like a Ferrari, even at high speeds [6]. The bike gives you confidence to take aggressive lines on technical downhills. Taller riders love the stretched geometry that keeps things stable during fast descents [6].
Comfort Over Long Distances
Tire choice made a big difference in comfort on these bikes. The ride quality changed completely when we switched from standard 28mm tires at 65-70psi to wider 30mm options at 40-50psi. The Filante SL showed the most improvement [13].
The Granturismo SLR stands out with its Actiflex 2.0 suspension system - a perfect match for endurance riding [24]. Century rides left me feeling fresher compared to the race models. The aero Filante bikes stay comfortable despite their speed focus. The SL version rides smoother than its SLR sibling [5].
Durability and Maintenance Observations
These Wilier bikes held up well after thousands of miles. The carbon monocoque frames stayed solid without flex or creaks. The clean look of integrated cables comes with a trade-off - basic adjustments need more work, especially on Filante models where internal routing requires extra technical know-how.
Electronic shifting worked reliably after the initial setup. We had to watch the tire seating, though. The Filante SL needed extra attention here - poorly seated tires made the bike roll unevenly until fixed [13].
Conclusion
Final Verdict: Which Wilier Is Right for You?
These Italian thoroughbreds have proven their worth through countless climbs, descents, and everything between after I logged 1,000 miles across Wilier's 2025 lineup. Each model showcases Wilier's century-old heritage while adopting advanced innovation that puts many competitors on notice.
The flagship Filante SLR shines as the clear pick for speed demons who want aerodynamic advantages without giving up climbing ability. This bike's 870-gram frame weight and remarkable stability make it perfect for criterium racers and riders who value straight-line efficiency. The premium price tag might make casual riders think twice.
The Granturismo SLR stands out for anyone planning long days in the saddle. Its ACTIFLEX 2.0 suspension system does brilliant work and reduces fatigue over rough roads while keeping the spirited character Wilier bikes are known for. This comfort-oriented machine still packs enough punch for spirited group rides and even occasional racing.
Budget-minded riders should check out the Filante SL and Garda 105 models. These bikes deliver about 90% of their flagship siblings' performance at much lower prices. The Garda stands out as my top pick for newer cyclists who want quality Italian craftsmanship without breaking the bank.
The Rave SL gives amazing versatility to riders who can't choose between road and gravel. This do-it-all bike handles mixed terrain like a champ while keeping enough speed for pure road riding, despite being a bit heavier than dedicated road machines.
Wilier's 2025 collection has something for every road cyclist. The brand's dedication to cutting weight while boosting stiffness, aerodynamics, and comfort shows across the lineup. Their switch to electronic shifting as standard equipment matches industry trends and makes riding better.
My pick of the bunch? The Granturismo SLR gives the most balanced experience for how most enthusiasts actually ride. The climbing-focused Verticale SLR might catch weight weenies' eyes and the Filante SLR turns heads, but the Granturismo's mix of performance and comfort makes long rides truly enjoyable.
Your perfect Wilier depends on your riding priorities, budget, and what feels right to you. These bikes deliver exceptional experiences that live up to their storied Italian heritage, no matter which model catches your eye.
FAQs
Q1. How do Wilier road bikes compare to other high-end brands? Wilier road bikes are highly competitive with other premium brands, offering exceptional performance, innovative technologies, and Italian craftsmanship. Their lineup includes ultra-lightweight climbing bikes, aerodynamic racing machines, and comfortable endurance models, catering to various riding styles and preferences.
Q2. What makes the Wilier Filante SLR stand out among aero road bikes? The Filante SLR combines exceptional aerodynamics with an impressively light frame, weighing just 870 grams. It features innovative airfoil shapes designed for real-world conditions and a widened front fork for improved aerodynamics. The bike offers precise handling and maintains climbing ability despite its aero focus.
Q3. Which Wilier model is best for long-distance comfort? The Wilier Granturismo SLR is ideal for long-distance riding. It incorporates the ACTIFLEX 2.0 suspension system, providing up to 5mm of vertical travel to absorb road vibrations. The bike's geometry is optimized for endurance while maintaining a spirited ride quality, making it perfect for century rides and gran fondos.
Q4. Are there more affordable options in Wilier's road bike lineup? Yes, Wilier offers more budget-friendly options like the Garda 105 and Filante SL. These mid-range models provide much of the performance and craftsmanship of higher-end Wilier bikes at more accessible price points, making them great choices for enthusiasts and newer cyclists.
Q5. Can Wilier bikes handle both road and gravel riding? The Wilier Rave SL is designed for versatility across road and gravel terrain. It features generous tire clearance up to 42mm, allowing riders to switch between narrower road tires and wider gravel tires. This bike maintains efficiency on pavement while confidently handling unpaved surfaces, making it ideal for riders seeking a do-it-all bike.
References
[1] - https://www.wilier.com/en/bikes/road/filante-slr?srsltid=AfmBOooHA5wUC6f92ZW5ZPSSjsIJRA4k92cYBQRP9bfgyJWuZrvlPJIZ
[2] - https://api.wilier.com/media/2775/INTRO_TECNICA_FILANTESLR_ENG.pdf
[3] - https://www.cyclingweekly.com/reviews/bike-reviews/wilier-filante-slr-ultegra-review-have-i-found-my-perfect-bike
[4] - https://shop.eatsleepcycle.com/shop/wilier-filante-slr-road-bike-shimano-dura-ace-di2-2025/?srsltid=AfmBOoo0dcyaY36-xtIuTXwTYyl-b2Kco3liptbWDTC-HTCLBTontZXt
[5] - https://blog.cyclomonster.com/2025/05/16/explore-wilier-2025-bikes-precision-performance-meets-endurance-innovation/
[6] - https://granfondo-cycling.com/wilier-filante-slr-racebike-review/
[7] - https://www.wilier.com/en/bikes/road/granturismo-slr?srsltid=AfmBOooaHq5jGr04IVtulgaZdkI1r6S4wqUjeSBDDGtLroUONOyoIKaa
[8] - https://api.wilier.com/media/2770/INTRO_TECNICA_GRANTURISMO-SLR_eng.pdf
[9] - https://en.brujulabike.com/wilier-granturismo-slr-models-prices-new/
[10] - https://www.wilier.com/en/bikes/road/granturismo-slr?srsltid=AfmBOopTZaCpVYP0u5wMnRC2rYx3tMVmdV2WuJvTF3J5UmMI1y2nancw
[11] - https://discover.wilier.com/en/filante-range?utm_source=referral&utm_medium=banner-lista-bici-sito-corporate&utm_campaign=Gamma-Filante-2025
[12] - https://www.wilier.com/en/bikes/road/filante-sl?srsltid=AfmBOopTB8UcfD_FtQup0iXfqPHuCvhyg7yxra4SKVmC1ZdfR2fauStz
[13] - https://road.cc/content/review/wilier-filante-sl-ultegra-di2-314211
[14] - https://www.wilier.com/en/bikes/road/filante-sl?srsltid=AfmBOopaKJFeLuqx2TKybTMGqE5xMvF76fSwsXZFmCw5m8o_4-r6VG9x
[15] - https://www.wilier.com/en/bikes/road/garda?srsltid=AfmBOor_yU89gUz6vQbbLmToLrBbwEShfYADRcGLpnQ-fXYajHwY7OoV
[16] - https://www.cyclist.co.uk/news/cyclist-track-days-2025-bikes-wilier-filante-sl
[17] - https://www.damianharriscycles.co.uk/Wilier-Rave-SL-Sand-Frameset
[18] - https://www.lordgun.com/wilier-triestina-rave-sl-shimano-grx-1x12-bicycle-1?srsltid=AfmBOorJEbI6CsxUJglGpVJtHZEt2d8GW78CRWnStVu4tyE61z0uI7r-
[19] - https://www.wilier.com/en/bikes/gravel/rave-sl?srsltid=AfmBOoqD9FBt-qUFtyKyllVlNV7VIH9xlZWw7AtmTQmTP9U23MUPYQ9y
[20] - https://www.cyclesuk.com/shop/bikes/sub/adventure-gravel/wilier-rave-sl-ekar-gt-bike-151700/option/
[21] - https://www.bellatisport.com/shop/product/8792/Wilier_Rave_SL_Road_2025.html
[22] - https://www.wilier.com/en/bikes/road/verticale-slr?srsltid=AfmBOop0pokyKhawsa4pbwQZhemhDIFYUBBmdCUVuIOpNR9UmbOtkbyW
[23] - https://www.cyclist.co.uk/reviews/wilier-verticale-slr-road-bike-review
[24] - https://www.wilier.com/en/bikes/road/granturismo-sl?srsltid=AfmBOoqOCmBu8StcJQFPiTR20kV7vfuunXSaxEnvcV859_oh7_QRIef5
