No-Holds-Barred: A Look at Ceepo’s New Superbike
No, this isn't some pie-in-the-sky concept bike, this is Ceepo's new rule-shattering production Shadow-R.
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Forgoing the standard above-wheel front fork and seatstay, this superbike relies exclusively on disc brakes to slow things down. Though the singular lines are meant to shield more components from the wind, the unique “side-fork” also serves to dampen road vibrations over longer distances. Despite its funky looks, Ceepo claims most stems are compatible with the design and the bike is easily serviced. Our brief tests did show that the handling was different than a bike with standard forks, but after an adaptation period, it never felt limiting—after all, this is the bike American Andy Potts and Italian Alessandro Degaspari rode in Kona.
Front-End Future
By using what amounts to a fender fairing and front-end cowling, the Shadow-R is able to divert turbulent air better than anything a UCI-legal bike would allow.
Wide Fast
Without a seatstay to disrupt aerodynamics, a burley chainstay holds the wheel in place and allows for a massive 28mm-tire maximum width.
Belly of the Beast
Beneath this aerodynamic spaceship lies an integrated tool box, negating the need for a seat bag that could disrupt the Shadow-R’s laminar lines.
Shock Collar
The Shadow-R’s reversible seatpost allows for a wide range of fitting options. The top tube beam design not only allows for smoother aerodynamics, but also acts as an effective shock absorber for long, bumpy rides.
Food Stuffs
Like many similar superbikes, the Shadow-R has a built-in top tube storage compartment for nutrition and other easy-to-reach items.
Aero Shadow
With the absence of a conventional two-sided fork, the Shadow-R presents far fewer leading edges to the wind. The central beam (in yellow) shields the hub, bottom bracket, and many of the aerodynamically messy moving parts.