We are often asked to explain the differences between Stelbel Road models. Not so much in terms of materials or numbers, but to understand their soul, their attitude, and their behavior on the road. The question is always the same: which one to choose?
It is a legitimate request, especially when talking about frames built with different materials but shared by the same design philosophy. High-performance steel, stainless steel, titanium: every choice involves precise nuances in dynamic response.
This overview was created with the intent of clarifying the identities of our Road models, starting from what they have in common and arriving at what distinguishes them, without simplifications and without slogans.
SB/04
The high-performance steel frame
SB/04 is the frame that, more than any other, defines the contemporary identity of Stelbel. It was born with a clear intention: to be a modern steel frame dedicated to competition.The SB project is at the core of the brand’s rebirth in 2014–2015. After the SB/01 and SB/02 prototypes, used as a testing ground to refine new technical solutions, came SB/03, the first model to consolidate a precise vision: steel should not just be a romantic choice, but a technical one. SB/04 represents the coherent evolution of that journey.
The tubing is Columbus, largely developed to our specifications. The matrix is that of the Spirit HSS family, but several elements are completely customized. The 44 mm down tube is the most generous in the range. The constant-section 36×18 mm oval chainstays work to increase lateral stiffness while maintaining controlled vertical response.The bottom bracket area has always been central to the project’s development. SB/03 was the first Stelbel model to adopt the T47 standard back in 2017.
The head tube is tapered, with a 1”1/4 lower bearing and integrated lightweight seats of our own design.The dropouts are 3D printed using Binder Jetting technology, a solution that allows for high dimensional precision. On the road, the SB/04 is a reactive frame. It is the most pure performance-oriented model in the Road range. SB/04 remains, above all, the frame that bears the initials of Stelio Belletti.
Rodano
The balance of steel
Rodano is the model that interprets steel in a more classic way, without sacrificing a modern structure. It was born for those seeking continuity in response and ride quality, even over long distances.
The name recalls the hamlet of Rodano, east of Milan, home of the Stelbel workshop until 1990. The tubing comes mainly from the Columbus Spirit and Life families. The 38 mm down tube defines a less aggressive setup compared to the SB/04.
The head tube is straight, with a 44 mm internal diameter, requiring an external cup headset. A choice that privileges structural simplicity and aesthetic consistency. The dropouts are made to our design with CNC machining.
On the road, Rodano offers a progressive response. It is not a soft frame, but a balanced one. It is a frame that invites you to maintain a rhythm rather than seeking a sharp sprint. Within the Road range, it occupies the position we could define as Endurance.
Antenore
Stainless Steel between construction wisdom and philosophy
Antenore is the XCr stainless steel model of the Stelbel Road range.
The name is a tribute to Antenore Belletti, Stelio’s father, who was the first to weld stainless steel in the workshop.The tubing is Columbus XCr, a stainless alloy with high mechanical resistance. These are thin tubes that require great control during welding.
The 42 mm down tube defines a solid, performance-oriented setup.The dropouts are 3D printed with Binder Jetting technology in 17-4PH alloy.
On the road, Antenore returns a feeling of precision and control. Stainless steel offers a direct response with fewer vibrations compared to traditional steels. Antenore is a frame destined to last over time.
Ti9
Titanium according to Stelbel
Ti9 is the titanium model of the Stelbel Road range. Its project has roots in the mid-80s, the result of the friendship between Stelio Belletti and Amelio Riva, who later became the first builder of Passoni frames.
The adoption of Columbus Hyperion tubing marked a decisive step. Hyperion is an advanced alloy with a weight/stiffness ratio that allows for a reactive frame. The bottom bracket is a dedicated T47 in titanium, designed and manufactured in-house.
Ti9 is the first Stelbel Road frame to adopt UDH-compatible 3D printed dropouts. On the road, Ti9 returns a feeling of solidity and control. The response is immediate; titanium is not used to “sweeten” the behavior, but to offer a progressive and consistent response.
Geometry and attitude:
a quick recap. Every Stelbel frame can be custom-made according to the specifications of a Bike Fit report—which we always highly recommend to achieve the best possible balance between position, comfort, and efficiency on your new bicycle.
To provide a reference for our approach to geometry, an 8-size chart is available for each model in our Road range. Looking at them, you can immediately grasp the character of each design: the SB/04 offers a more race-focused setup; the Antenore and Ti9 maintain a performance-oriented attitude, though with a slightly less aggressive footprint compared to the SB/04; the Rodano, on the other hand, adopts a more conservative geometry, featuring a slightly higher stack and revised angles to enhance stability and comfort over long distances.
The diagram below maps out the positioning of each model based on the chosen material and its corresponding on-road attitude.
The SB/04, Rodano, Antenore, and Ti9 are born from different materials and design sensibilities, yet they share the exact same construction method and meticulous attention to every detail.
However, it is worth remembering that while each frame carries a distinct identity, it is never set in stone. The artisanal nature of our work and custom construction can significantly alter the bike’s behavior, balance, and dynamic response.
The model is simply a technical foundation.
The final result is always the product of a shared dialogue. And it is precisely from that dialogue that every Stelbel takes shape.
