ACOL IMPERO XP Road Bike SRAM Force AXS E1 / Fulcrum Soniq

The perfect harmony: nimble, versatile performance and aerodynamic efficiency

The IMPERO aims to combine two traditionally different frame characteristics in a single, unified high-performance platform.

The rear triangle uses an ultra-light SL structure for maximum responsiveness and outstanding efficiency on climbs. The front triangle, by contrast, applies the design principles of the highly aerodynamic DIVINUS platform to significantly reduce drag at high speed.

This harmonious combination delivers balanced performance in every riding situation – from explosive race sprints to long, demanding endurance rides.

The IMPERO goes beyond the traditional all-rounder concept: a versatile frame combining multiple characters, designed for the widest possible range of uses and riding conditions.

The IMPERO strives for the perfect balance of four key qualities: aerodynamics, low weight, stiffness and comfort. ACOL's unique development philosophy lies in harmoniously combining these qualities, which are often seen as contradictory.

To achieve this, every detail of the design was reviewed from the ground up, from the frame tube design and carbon layup to the moulding process. Unnecessary elements were consistently removed, while special attention was paid to maintaining the right stiffness. At the same time, airflow and a high level of ride comfort were optimised.

The result is the IMPERO: a true all-rounder bike perfected in every detail for outstanding performance, whatever the terrain or riding conditions.

One of the key goals in developing the IMPERO was to remove unnecessary elements while maintaining the required stiffness.

Structural simplification reduced the number of bonded surfaces, eliminating areas that are potential weak points in traditional frame designs. This fine-tuning results in more uniform, monolithic stiffness and greater structural integrity across the whole frame. The design also ensures more even pressure distribution during the critical moulding process.

The rear triangle – which is less aerodynamically significant than the front triangle – was designed with a rounded, simple shape to maximise low weight. The geometry and internal structure of this section build on valuable experience and data gathered while developing the ultra-light SL model.

Reducing weight doesn't mean sacrificing stiffness. Thanks to precisely designed carbon layup and structural optimisation, the stiffness-to-weight ratio has improved significantly. This improvement is rigorously confirmed by both real stiffness measurement data and FEA (finite element analysis) simulations.

The bottom bracket and chainstays have been optimised to efficiently transfer the torque generated while pedalling. As a result, the frame responds instantly, with no measurable flex when sprinting or climbing. The design enables lossless power transfer even above 400 watts.

By meeting the conflicting demands of low weight and high stiffness, the IMPERO sets a new benchmark for frame stiffness.

The IMPERO fork was designed not only for low weight but also for outstanding resilience. Even after an extremely demanding 300,000-cycle durability test – three times the 100,000 cycles required by the ISO 4210 industry standard – it delivers consistent performance, with significantly less displacement than previous generations.

The secret to this outstanding strength lies in the Impact Spine structure integrated into the fork.

This innovative reinforcement system supports the fork's central axis like a spine, increasing both stiffness and durability by reducing deformation, even under heavy loads and repeated impacts.

While conventional forks can accumulate micro-deformations after tens of thousands of cycles, the IMPERO fork with Impact Spine technology retains its outstanding durability and consistent performance even after the full 300,000-cycle test.

The IMPERO isn't just about low weight and high stiffness.

The precisely shaped lines and carefully designed carbon layup of the rear triangle – building on experience gained while developing the SL model – effectively dampen road vibrations, significantly reducing fatigue on longer rides.

The rear triangle and seatpost are designed to increase vertical compliance and effectively absorb impacts while maintaining lateral stiffness. This special balance ensures stable, comfortable riding without performance loss – the hallmark of a high-performance bike truly built for the long haul.

The IMPERO is available in seven sizes, from XXS to XL, so riders of different builds and with different fit needs can find the right size.

Special attention was paid to the smallest XXS size, which offers a low standover height, making it comfortable for riders under 160 cm. This means shorter riders and women can easily find a natural, proper riding position.

The improved Race Geometry delivers nimble, direct responses in all conditions – whether climbing, on the flat or sprinting – while its balanced design keeps in mind the comfort needed for long-distance riding.

Combined with customisable handlebar sizes, flexible fit options let every rider – regardless of height, arm length or shoulder width – create a personalised setup that perfectly matches their physique.