ENVE MELEE V2 FRAMESET - WHITE LIGHTNING
The Melee v2 improves the two things that matter most in modern road racing – weight and aerodynamics – at the same time. By advancing both critical performance areas simultaneously, it removes the tradeoff between a lightweight climbing bike and an aero race bike without sacrificing the responsive ride characteristics the Melee is known for.
The Melee v2 leans into its racing pedigree to deliver a purpose-built package with the singular objective of going faster.
Melee v2 accomplishes this by:
- Reducing total surface area of the frame by 7.5%
- Reduced maximum tyre clearance from 35mm to 33mm
- New headset design using smaller bearings
- New seat post design with new lightweight rail clamp
- BSA bottom bracket and UDH for further weight savings
SPEED SECRETS
Throughout the development of the Melee v2, the wind tunnel confirmed more than a few suspicions we had about what happens on the road, and why the most aero bikes aren’t always the most winning.
- Super deep aero tube profiles are wind tunnel fast, but not always real-world fast
- The frame’s tube shapes must work in harmony with the rider’s body
- A rider’s legs create turbulence and can dam up airflow, creating drag. The frame’s tube shapes must allow the airflow to progress across/through the rider’s legs and onto the back half of the frame and rear wheel
- Water bottles and their cages must be considered as part of the system
Initially, our Real-World Fast protocol required that all aero wheel development must be considered within the system of the complete bicycle. Over the years, we’ve seen that a rider’s body greatly influences the aero performance of rim and tube shapes. Today, ENVE’s updated Real-World-Fast development protocol requires a rider on board to validate each design. Aero testing without a real rider is an incomplete system.
WHERE THE WATTS WERE WON
The Melee v2 system is a staggering 17 watts faster than its predecessor. This is realised in these areas:
- Frame, fork, & seatpost: 11.4 watts
- Handlebar & bar tape: 3 watts
- Aero cages with bottle: 2.6 watts
RIDE DYNAMICS
While weight savings and improved aerodynamics were the two main objectives for the Melee v2, additional frame characteristics were not ignored. The Melee v2 is a thoroughbred race bike, and efficient power transfer remains a critical component for performance.
GEOMETRY
With racing in focus, the Melee v2 has been tuned for response, precision and agility. Seven frame sizes aim to accommodate riders of all sizes and fit needs, while five unique fork rakes ensure that optimal handling is achieved regardless of frame size.