Gravel as a Platform, Not a Category
Nina is conceived as a gravel platform rather than a bicycle limited to a single interpretation. In its standard configuration it is a modern gravel frame, stable and efficient on rough terrain, well suited for long rides, extended travel and endurance gravel races.
At the same time, the inherent flexibility of the design allows for more specialised use cases. Through different component choices and fork pairings, Nina can evolve into a fast all-road bicycle, capable of being equipped with mudguards and optimised for mixed road use. This approach is particularly appreciated in Northern Europe and the UK, where changing conditions and year-round riding require practical yet carefully balanced solutions.
Steel, Craft and Ride Quality
The frame is built using Columbus steel tubing from the Life and Zona families, selected to meet the demands of gravel riding. These tubes favour stability, vibration control and durability without unnecessary excess, allowing the Nina to remain composed over long distances and varied surfaces.
Steel remains central to the character of the bike, offering a natural sense of control on loose terrain and a reassuring ride quality that becomes increasingly valuable as time in the saddle accumulates.
TIG Welding and Workshop Craft
All Nina frames are TIG welded in our Bergamo workshop. This technique has always been central to Stelbel and remains one of the defining elements of our frames.
Each junction is carefully finished by hand, with time dedicated to refining every detail according to our aesthetic and structural standards. Working with thin-walled steel requires precision and patience, and this process allows us to maintain consistency, alignment and a clean visual language across every frame we produce.
Design Considerations
Nina is designed around modern gravel standards while preserving the freedom that defines the model. Tyre clearance reaches up to 700×50c in the standard gravel configuration, offering confidence and control on uneven terrain.
The frame uses Paragon Machine Works dropouts, compatible with the UDH standard, and features a Stelbel-designed CNC-machined stainless steel T47 bottom bracket shell in the 68 mm version. On request, a wider 73 mm shell can be specified for builds oriented towards more demanding off-road use.
Hidden cable routing can be achieved through the adoption of what we call the Evoluzione system, our proprietary approach to adapting each fork to the frame in order to achieve a clean, fully hidden cable layout. This solution is available with wireless shifting groupsets and hydraulic disc brakes.
From 2026, Nina features a CNC-machined Paragon EC44–EC44 head tube. This solution improves structural continuity and visually complements the external upper headset cup, resulting in a more coherent and balanced front-end design. With this update, we also introduced a revised front engraving, more elaborate and distinctive, developed to better represent Stelbel’s off-road identity while remaining consistent with the refined aesthetic of the frame.
Alternative fork options can be specified to shift the character of the Nina towards a more road-oriented or all-road configuration, including the use of mudguards where required.
The platform supports 1x and 2x drivetrains and is compatible with mechanical, electronic and wireless groupsets, reinforcing its adaptable nature.
Geometry and Riding Intent
The geometry of the Nina is always defined together with the rider. Rather than following a fixed template, each project begins by understanding how the bike is meant to be used.
Some riders prioritise stability and comfort for long-distance travel and multi-day rides, others seek precision and efficiency for long gravel races. Custom geometry allows the Nina to reflect these intentions while preserving balance, predictability and control.
Paintwork Options
Alongside our standard and plain finishes, the Nina is available with a special paint scheme developed in collaboration with Studio TEMP, a design studio based in Bergamo.
This livery, named Runic, draws inspiration from the ancient rock engravings found in the valleys surrounding our city and translates them into a contemporary graphic language. It is an optional finish that reflects both place and spirit. Further details are available in our dedicated article on paintwork.
A Frame with Long-Term Value
Nina is built as an object of lasting value. Steel is durable, repairable and well suited to extended use. Combined with a made-to-order approach and careful construction, it supports a more conscious way of owning and riding a bicycle.
Each Nina is personal by nature, shaped around a clear purpose and intended to accompany its rider across many kilometres, seasons and journeys.
How to Order
You may begin the process by completing the contact form or writing to [email protected].
Orders can also be placed through one of our authorised dealers worldwide. If a dealer operates in your area, we will be glad to introduce you.
Nina is available as a frame kit or as a complete bicycle with carefully selected configurations, always open to personalisation.
To confirm production, a 50 percent deposit is required. Lead times vary throughout the year and generally range between four and seven months. As each Nina is built to order, projects with a higher level of customisation may require additional time.
Additional Resources
Further information about paintwork options and design collaborations is available in our dedicated articles.
If you are considering the Nina platform and would like to understand the differences between Nina and Nina XCr, including material choices, ride characteristics and intended use, you may find our dedicated comparison article helpful.
