Ultimately, the new 3T RaceMax is all about speed.
Whether riding road or gravel, everything on the RaceMax frame is engineered to go fast. As with all rigs in the 3T stable, each is aerodynamically optimised around particular wheel and tyre set ups geared towards a particular style of riding. This is done whilst retaining versatility that impinges on that optimisation as little as possible. The only exception being the Extrema.
The RaceMax follows the same core design principles (see technical info below) as all the bikes in the range. Everything starts from the tyres. I won't get into this too much as it is quite involved and really only a consideration if you are building up a Frame (Italia only in the UK), or if you plan to change wheels and/or tyres - in which case I sincerely recommend you research RAM and WAM on 3T's own site as there is a lot to digest! For complete bikes you can be assured that 3T are supplying them optimal.
From here, it becomes about REALFAST aerodynamics. In the case of the RaceMax, 3T engineer a perfectly fitting rear wheel cutout that factors mud clearance, and a closely trailing downtube to catch the airflow coming off the front tyre. In addition the new super-narrow headtube (more below), a multi-shape fork and aero details from seatstay to seatpost and from the shielded water bottle to the direct-attachment brake mounts, all contribute to the overall aerodynamics.
Most importantly though, 3T have engineered their bikes for realistic riding speeds (not just pros), wind speeds, tyre widths, bottle positions and even for mud. They don’t care if it is theoretically fast in the windtunnel with a fantasy spec. They care if it is fast the way we ride it in real world conditions.
In the case of the RaceMax, the result is a fast gravel bike that has the look and ride of a road bike, but one that rips through gravel effortlessly. It is why the platform has become so popular among gravel racers
A RaceMax frame can be built up with a focus on pure speed with 35-46mm WAM (Width As Measured) tyres in 700c - and this is the aero optimised set-up and rivals road bikes - yes really. However, it can also be turned into an unstoppable gravel slaying machine with 650b tyres up to 61mm WAM, making it ideal for those sporadic epic rides or events abroad. In a perfect world, 2 wheelsets would allow you to switch between the two setups easily.
The RaceMax Integrale represents 3T's gravel racing platform, combining aerodynamic integration with versatile performance capabilities. The WPNT models feature custom paint executed through 3T's in-house WPNT program in Italy, allowing for greater choice thanks to the flexibility to produce smaller quantities in specific colours compared to the standards imposed by Asian production.
The new Integrale variant of the RaceMax is named as such through 3T's comprehensive component integration.Routing cables internally yields obvious benefits from aesthetics to aero gains but it can also result in bulky headtubes with oversized bearings to house the cables, as well as issues with servicing & maintenance and often, travel!
3T's goal with the new Integrale was to hide the cables but keep the headtube narrow while maintaining ease of use. 3T use their APTO Integrale stem - the original minimalist Apto shape but with internal cable routing. The system delivers functionality beyond the aesthetic as you retain full adjustability of the carbon bar (or the possibility to change the bar with another 3T carbon bar) to find the perfect fit. Ulitimately aerodynamics are meaningless if you cannot comfortably hold your aero position.
All control lines run through the handlebar and stem, entering the frame through a specially designed headset system. This design provides aerodynamic advantages while maintaining serviceability, a critical consideration, particularly for the intended use case. The RaceMax Integrale is compatible with both 1x and 2x SRAM and Shimano electronic drivetrains.
A key to the versatility and handling of the RaceMax platform is its geometry. The frame geometry has been optimised for high-speed stability while maintaining agility at lower speeds because without confident handling - all the aero in the world won't make you fast. This is achieved through careful manipulation of key geometric parameters, including head tube angle, fork rake, and trail measurements. The result is stability and confident handling at speed with predictable handling across various speed ranges and terrain types.
The RaceMax Integrale Rival in Black is available with a SRAM 1x12 Speed Rival AXS Wireless Groupset and Fulcrum aluminium wheels. The 3T APTO Integrale and Superergo cockpit rounds out the build. Full specifications are below.
If you are new to the 3T range - it can be confusing as to where to stash your cash. While remembering all but the Extrema are incrediby versatile, the following overview will focus on each model's optimised form - so consider each on the basis of the majority of your riding.
RaceMax and RaceMax Italia: share the same geometry, angles, shapes and tyre clearance, while production techniques are different, as a result, the ride feel changes between RaceMax and RaceMax Italia. These are ideal for Fast Gravel riding, from racing or less technical, to tarmac heavy courses.
The Ultra has a similar geometry and fit, but different soul.
The RaceMax frameset is fastest with 35-46mm WAM tyres. It is compatible with up to 61mm WAM 650b tyres. The Ultra is the reverse. It is best with 55-61mm WAM 650b tyres thanks to its wider downtube but can run a 700c tyre up to a 46mm. RaceMax is more about pure speed while the Ultra is about the adventure, bike packing and tough terrain, while remaining fast on road.
The Primo features a more road inspired geometry, partially external cables while still allowing for excellent wheel and tyre versatility. Ride your faster days with 700c road tyres then swap to 650b when adventure calls. The perfect all-round bike.
The Extrema is the latest bike to hit the stable and is built to be fast over longer distances and the toughest, most epic courses. It is 700c only and features a different geometry designed to keep the rider fast over time through a combination of 3Ts usual aero approaches and sustainable positioning. Oh, and massive tyres!
Ultimately the RaceMax is perfect for riders focusing on competitive gravel events while maintaining the versatility to handle recreational riding and mixed-terrain adventures. The integration features provide tangible performance benefits without compromising the bicycle's fundamental versatility.