Guava Bikes launches the ‘ACE’

Heaps of new bikes, frames and other equipment were launched and presented during Traka on the first weekend of May. One of the products on show was the ACE, Guava Bikes’ new gravel racing model.

Text: Sjors Beukeboom Photos: Guava Bikes

Guava’s original model, the Spot, was a lively and versatile bike that could be raced at the highest level or taken bikepacking for a weekend adventure. The ACE is the next step in the brand’s search for the perfect gravel bike; an evolution of the original geometry, designed to be lighter, more responsive and with quicker handling built for gravel racing.

The result is a noticeably faster bike that has shed its bikepacking mounts, while keeping the option for one top tube bag and two bottle cages. The frame itself weighs around 900 grams, depending on the size, around 300 grams lighter than the previous model.

Fun is fast(er)

Given the growing popularity of gravel events, not only in Catalonia but also worldwide, producing a more race-ready frame was a natural evolution for the Barcelona-based bike brand. The racing setup of the ACE features 54 mm tyre clearance, front derailleur capability and a rear UDH derailleur dropout.

Where the Catalan brand originally focused on ‘freedom machines’ that should be ‘fun’ and ‘adventurous’; the ACE remains fun, yet more performance-oriented and aerodynamic, and therefore faster.

“With the ACE, we evolve the ride experience to be faster and more responsive, without losing the fun side”, says co-founder David Alvarez.

The difference is notable. Whilst the Spot would be the ideal bikepacking companion to enjoy the scenery without being in a rush, the ACE seems to prefer moving forward. It is a frame designed with a different purpose and aimed at a different gravel cycling audience: those who look for competition on unpaved roads.

Handlebars

In order to offer more flexibility in fit, the founders of Guava Bikes (Alvarez, Nacho Suárez and FC Barcelona legend Bojan Krki) developed a new handlebar system compatible with the ACE, called the XX. Four stem lengths are available (60, 80, 100 and 120), and two bar widths of 40 and 42 cm, measured centre to centre at the brake hoods. The bars have a forward sweep of 5 degrees and a flare of 16 degrees, making them suitable for a more forward and aggressive position.

In addition to the introduction of the XS frame size to the collection, another step forward is the SCIMM fitting tool, which Guava Bikes has integrated on its website; the first bicycle brand to do so.

“Customers can choose their fit and take a stock stem size, or use SCIMM fitting to get the correct stem size”, comments Alvarez. “People can receive a much more accurate fitting recommendation with the tool. The results are then used to custom fit and assemble the perfect Guava ACE.”

All Guava bikes continue to be painted and assembled to order in Barcelona, with a combination of 12 colours for the frame paint, logo and build kit. The bike is painted, assembled and shipped within three weeks, or it can be picked up from their shops in Girona or Barcelona.

RRP:

Ace Shimano GRX827 Di2 6.399,00€
Ace Sram Force E1 6.999,00€
Ace Sram Red E1 9.999,00€