Made in Milan: Cinelli Launches Limited-Edition Speciale Steel Gravel Bike

In an industry often dominated by mass production and incremental updates, Cinelli operates on a different frequency. The legendary Italian brand doesn't just launch bikes; it unveils statements of purpose. The new Speciale Gravel, making its debut at Eurobike 2025, is a perfect embodiment of this philosophy—a limited-edition steel machine that is as much a piece of art as it is a high-performance gravel bike.

Designed and welded in Milan, right next door to the iconic Columbus tubing factory, the Speciale Gravel is a celebration of in-house Italian craftsmanship. It's a bold departure from the norm, offered exclusively online or in-person at Eurobike from June 25-29, making it an instant object of desire for collectors and purists alike.

An Evolution of Steel Mastery

At its heart, the Speciale Gravel is a direct descendant of Cinelli’s highly regarded Nemo Gravel frame, but it's far more than a simple refresh. The engineers revisited the entire construction, meticulously optimizing the profiles of the celebrated Columbus Spirit steel tubing. This "Top Performance" steel alloy is renowned for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and superior ride quality, allowing for thin-walled tubes that deliver a lively, comfortable, yet responsive feel.

The result of this refinement is a frame that sheds nearly 200 grams, tipping the scales at a claimed 2,120 grams (approx. 4.67 lbs). This is a remarkable figure for a steel frame built for the rigors of modern gravel riding.

Modern Capability Meets Timeless Style

While its soul is classic Italian steel, the Speciale Gravel's features are thoroughly modern. The frame is paired with a Columbus Components Divide Integrated carbon fork, ensuring precise handling and vibration damping up front. Full internal cable routing maintains clean lines and is compatible with all modern 1x and 2x electronic or mechanical drivetrains.

The geometry is tuned for aggressive performance but retains the versatility that mixed-terrain riding demands. Key features include:

• Massive Tire Clearance: Ample room for up to 29 x 2.2” (or 700c x 56mm) tires allows riders to tackle everything from fast-rolling hardpack to technical singletrack.
• Dropper Post Ready: With compatibility for dropper posts, the Speciale is equipped to handle steep, challenging descents.
• Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH): The inclusion of a UDH is a practical, forward-thinking choice that provides peace of mind and easy serviceability when traveling far from home.

A Curated Build for Immediate Adventure

The Cinelli Speciale Gravel is offered in a single, distinctive "Agave" colorway that highlights its elegant lines. The complete build is a thoughtful selection of components chosen for reliability and performance:

• Drivetrain: Shimano GRX 1x
• Wheels: Fulcrum Rapid Red alloy
• Tires: Vittoria Mezcal XC 29 x 2.1”
• Cockpit: Columbus Components

This limited run comes with a price tag reflecting its handcrafted nature. Standard builds start at €4,800. For those seeking the ultimate fit and exclusivity, a fully made-to-measure version is available starting at €5,800.

More Than Just a Bike

In a market saturated with outsourced carbon frames, the Cinelli Speciale Gravel is a defiant statement. It leverages the brand's deep history and the unmatched talent of its Milan-based artisans. This isn't a bike built to chase trends; it's a bike built with soul, for riders who appreciate the story, the craftsmanship, and the distinctive ride quality that only a masterfully built steel frame can provide.

The Speciale Gravel isn't for everyone, and that's precisely the point. Its scarcity and unique purchasing model are part of its allure. For the right rider, this isn't just another gravel bike—it’s the one they didn’t know they were waiting for.