The Chiru Kunlun embodies the excellence of ultra-endurance road cycling. Designed for the legendary Transcontinental Race 2019 (4,400 km across Europe), this Grade 9 titanium frame combines exceptional comfort, targeted stiffness, and absolute reliability to devour kilometers on asphalt, cobblestones, and gravel. Its name is inspired by the Kunlun Mountains in Tibet, habitat of the Chiru antelope, symbol of endurance and resilience in extreme environments.

Exceptional titanium for ultra-distance

Made from 3Al/2.5V Grade 9 titanium with variable wall thickness and cold-formed, the Kunlun offers the best compromise between light weight (1,600-1,700 g in size M), vibrational comfort, and longevity. The tubes are welded with haute couture artisanal craftsmanship and benefit from a lifetime warranty on welds. The brushed finish with laser engravings and the antelope head badge give this frame a timeless elegance designed for long-distance adventure.

Endurance geometry and modern standards

• Balanced geometry: Head tube angle between 71.7° and 73.2° depending on size, offering stability on descents and agility on climbs. Wheelbase of 1,001 to 1,017 mm (size M) for confident handling.
• Optimized Stack & Reach: Stack/Reach ratio from 1.38:1 (XS) to 1.53:1 (XL), favoring an upright and comfortable position for long distances.
• Threaded T47 bottom bracket: Robust 85.5 mm standard for durable, play-free crankset.
• 142 × 12 mm thru-axle: Optimal stiffness and precision for Flat Mount 140 mm disc braking.
• Generous tire clearance: Accepts up to 700c × 34 mm, ideal for comfort tires like gravel slick or semi-slick.

Rear triangle: vertical comfort and lateral stiffness

The Kunlun stands out with its unique rear architecture: the long, flexible seatstays, mounted high on the top tube, provide excellent vertical vibration filtering. In contrast, the CNC-machined monoblock aluminum dropouts (one week of machining per set) guarantee maximum torsional stiffness for efficient pedaling on climbs and sprints. This comfort/efficiency marriage is at the heart of the Kunlun philosophy.

Bikepacking versatility and drivetrain

• Bikepacking ready mounting: 3 bottle cage mounts (3 × 750 ml), frame bag and top tube bag mounts, rack and fender compatibility.
• Full internal routing (V2): Cables, hoses, and housings hidden for Di2, AXS groups, and dynamo lighting. Exits protected by rubber grommets.
• Flexible drivetrain: Single chainring recommended for mechanical transmission (44T max), double chainring possible with electronic (50 × 34T Ultegra, 48 × 31T GRX, or AXS/Campagnolo Ekar).
• 27.2 mm seatpost: Narrow diameter that adds vertical flex to absorb road imperfections.

Versions and compatibility

The Kunlun has evolved from V1 (external/mixed routing) to V2 (full internal routing, antelope head badge, laser-polished finishes). Compatible with CEC #372 carbon forks (axle-to-crown height 372 mm) or titanium forks for an even more comfortable 100% titanium setup. Derailleur hanger included (TS1 or UDH compatible depending on model). Five sizes (XS to XL) to fit all body types (155-198 cm).

The Chiru spirit: Dream, Design, Craft, Ride

Chiru Bikes, founded in 2009 by Pierre-Arnaud Le Magnan, engineer and ultra-cyclist, tests every innovation in the field during extreme races (Transcontinental Race, French Divide, Silk Road Mountain Race). The Kunlun crystallizes 20 years of French craftsmanship and excellence in titanium adventure bike design. An artisanal brand based in France, Chiru manufactures its titanium frames in Taiwan with rigorous quality control and environmental commitment (infinitely recyclable titanium).