Campagnolo Bora wheels: technology and innovation made in Italy

Campagnola Bora wheels are one of the iconic products of the Campagnolo company, a symbol of the Italian brand's technological and performance excellence. First introduced in 1994, in almost 30 years of history Bora wheels have established themselves as an absolute benchmark in the world of high-performance wheels for racing bicycles. Let's take a detailed look at the history, features and innovations that have made Bora wheels so popular among cyclists.

Birth and history of the Campagnolo Bora

Campagnolo Bora Series wheels in prompt delivery:

Campagnolo Bora WTO 45
Campagnolo Bora WTO 33
Campagnolo Bora WTO Ultra 33
Campagnolo Bora ULTRA 
Campagnolo Bora ONE 50

The Bora story began in the early 1990s, when Campagnolo decided to develop a new product hitherto unheard of in the company's range: a set of high-performance wheels specifically for use on time trial and triathlon bikes.

After years of absolute dominance in the field of groupsets and components, Campagnolo also wanted to try its hand in the wheel sector, which is booming thanks to new composite materials such as carbon fiber and Kevlar.

The goal was ambitious: to create the most aerodynamic, lightest and highest-performance wheels on the market. After a long period of research and wind tunnel testing, the Bora TriAthlon was unveiled in 1994: lenticular carbon wheels that were lightweight and super stiff.

The name Bora derives from the katabatic wind blowing in the plain between Slovenia and Croatia, a symbol of the exceptional performance against the air that the wheels promised. From the first version, the Bora employed ceramic bearings, a great innovation for the time.

Product evolution

The success of the first Compagnolo Bora corsagnolo wheels was immediate in the world of time trial racing. Campagnolo continued to develop and improve the product, launching new versions. In 1995 came the Bora UL (Ultralight) with 22 mm rims, in 2001 the Bora 'wide body' with 27 mm rims.

In 2004 the even lighter and stiffer Bora Ultra was launched, used by professional cycling teams. In 2007 came a major redesign of the wheel, with new rims and bearings.

2015 saw the introduction of the Bora One, the first Bora with one-piece rims to increase stiffness and responsiveness. Campagnolo's latest frontier of innovation is the 2020 Bora Ultra WTO, with soloUnpiece rims and hi-tech solutions such as the G3 carbon hub.

Cutting-edge technologies

Since the first Bora, Campagnolo has used innovative solutions that have set the standard in the wheel industry. Lenticular rims, which are popular today, were first used on the Bora itself in 1994.

The use of ceramic bearings, which are much smoother than traditional bearings, was also introduced by Bora in the early 1990s, when this technology was in its infancy.

Today the Bora represent the ultimate in Campagnolo research, with exclusive solutions such as:

• Seamless, soloUnpiece rims for extreme stiffness and responsiveness.
• C-LUX technology, which combines carbon fiber and liquid crystal polymer resin for stronger rims up to 50%.
• Symmetrical G3 rim profile designed in wind tunnel for excellent aerodynamic performance.
• MoMag technology: carbon hubs optimized to be magnetic so that the spokes are attracted to the center to have the wheel perfectly centered at all times.
• Ultra-smooth ceramic USB bearings capable of amplifying wheel stiffness and responsiveness.
• Minimal weight differences between front and rear rims to ensure perfect bike balance.

Design and craftsmanship

In addition to the hi-tech component, a strong point of the Campagnolo Bora is undoubtedly the design, the result of the perfect fusion of Italian craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology. The rims with clean surfaces, bold color choices such as deep red, and embossed logos make the Bora an object with a unique and perfectly recognizable aesthetic.

The production processes also combine craftsmanship and technology: the rims, made in the Bergamo area, which has a great tradition of wheel making, are shaped by hand and fired in special ovens to enhance their mechanical properties. Each Campagnolo Bora wheel is a concentrate of style,passion and Italian two-wheel culture.

Sports champions and feats

Since their inception, Bora wheels have been chosen by cycling's greatest champions, fascinated by their ability to make the bike fly. The Bora proved successful in time trials, mountain stages, and sprints with close ranks.

Suffice it to say that from 1994 to the present, 60% of the Olympic and world medals in road cycling have been won by athletes on bikes equipped with Campagnolo Bora wheels.

Among the champions who have chosen Bora bikes are legendary names such as Marco Pantani, Jan Ullrich, Paolo Bettini, Oscar Freire, Mario Cipollini, Alberto Contador, Vincenzo Nibali and many others. Bora bikes have accompanied such epic feats as Marco Pantani's Giro-Tour one-two in 1998 or Paolo Bettini's success at the 2006 World Championships in Salzburg.

On-road and off-road use

Born for time trials and triathlons, over the years the Bora have evolved to become excellent on the road as well. Today they are produced in both road and off-road versions. Bora WTO road wheels, with 33-45 mm rims, are among the most popular wheels in professional cycling and among discerning amateurs.

Campagnola Bora WTO offroad wheels, on the other hand, have 25-33 mm rims, suitable for gravel and adventure use. Even in offroad and granfondo competitions, the Bora wheels provide excellent performance.

This is thanks to the proverbial stiffness that amplifies responsiveness on uneven terrain and the vibration-dampening ability typical of lenticular rims. In short, the Bora excel on both asphalt and dirt.

Product range and prices

Campagnolo offers Bora both aftermarket and original equipment for major frame companies. The range includes:

• Bora WTO for road in 33,45 and 60 mm versions. The 33 and 45 mm are also available in 'tubular' versions for tubular tires.
• Bora WTO for off-road in 25 and 33 mm versions.
• Bora One for triathlon and time trial, with 85 mm rims.
• Bora Ultra TT 75 and 85 mm lenticular wheels for time trial and track.

Bora prices vary depending on the model but are definitely in the high end of the market, ranging from 1500 to 3700 Euros for the top-of-the-line carbon versions. The aluminum Bora have more affordable but still challenging prices, indicatively from 500 to 1200 Euros.

Campagnolo's Bora wheels represent the daydream 'dream' of every cycling enthusiast. Iconic wheels that have made and continue to make history, synonymous with speed, technological innovation and made-in-Italy beauty. Campagnola Bora wheels reward with excellent performance both the professional cyclist who wants to excel and the amateur who seeks the best to have fun on two wheels. A timeless product that continues to evolve while remaining at the top.

Frequently asked questions about Campagnolo Bora wheels

1. What are Campagnolo Bora wheels? Campagnolo Bora wheels are a range of high-performance cycling wheels designed and manufactured by the Italian company Campagnolo. These wheels are known for their light weight, stiffness and aerodynamics, ideal for cyclists seeking maximum performance.

2. What are the main features of Campagnolo Bora wheels? Campagnolo Bora wheels are known for their high-quality carbon construction, aerodynamic profile, fine hubs and elegant design. They are available in different profile heights to suit the needs of on-road and off-road cyclists.

3. What models of Bora wheels are available? Campagnolo offers a variety of Bora models, including Bora Ultra, Bora WTO, and Bora One. Each model may have specific features, so it is important to check the specifications of the model you are interested in.

4. What advantages do Bora wheels offer over other cycling wheels? Campagnolo Bora wheels offer many advantages, including increased speed due to their aerodynamics, increased stiffness that allows for better power transmission, and a reduction in overall bike weight.

5. Are Campagnolo Bora wheels compatible with disc brakes and traditional brakes? Yes, Campagnolo offers versions of the Bora wheels that are compatible with both disc brakes and traditional pad brakes. Be sure to choose the correct model based on the type of brake on your bicycle.

6. Can I use Bora wheels for competitions? Absolutely. Campagnolo Bora wheels are often chosen by professional cyclists for competitions because of their high-level performance. However, it is important to make sure that the wheels meet the specific regulations of the competition in which you are participating.

7. Do Bora wheels require special maintenance? Like all high-quality wheels, Bora wheels require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Keeping bearings clean, checking spoke tension and inspecting the brake profile are some of the recommended practices.

8. Are Campagnolo Bora wheels covered by warranty? Yes, usually Campagnolo Bora wheels are covered by a limited warranty against manufacturing defects. However, you should check the specific details of the warranty that came with the product or with your authorized dealer.

9. Can I buy replacement parts for Bora wheels? Campagnolo usually offers replacement components for its Bora wheels, including spokes, hubs, and accessories. You can purchase these components through authorized dealers or Campagnolo's official website.

10. How can I choose the right model of Bora wheels for me? Your choice of model will depend on your personal cycling needs. Consider the type of terrain you usually ride on, your riding style, and your wheel profile preferences. Consulting an expert or bicycle dealer can help you make the best decision.