The Bianchi Infinito XE 105 Di2 2x12sp Fulcrum Racing 918 DB bike sits right at the sweet spot of modern endurance road cycling. It combines Bianchi’s long-distance-focused carbon frame with Shimano’s latest 12-speed electronic shifting, delivering comfort, precision, and efficiency in one well-balanced package. Let’s explore more in this honest Bianchi Infinito XE 105 Di2 review.
This is not a pure race machine.
It’s not a relaxed leisure bike either.
Instead, it’s designed for riders who want to go far, ride fast, and finish strong, whether that means gran fondos, long weekend rides, or full-day adventures.
Overview / Verdict Up Front
Who this bike is for
– Endurance riders and gran fondo cyclists
– Riders upgrading to electronic shifting
– Cyclists who want comfort without sacrificing speed
– Serious training and long-distance road riding
Who this bike isn’t for
– Aero race specialists
– Riders wanting aggressive race geometry
– Short-ride casual cyclists
Quick take
The Infinito XE 105 Di2 is a refined endurance road bike that blends smooth ride comfort with modern performance tech. It’s efficient, stable, and confidence-inspiring, ideal for long rides where comfort and control matter as much as speed.
Key Specs (Real-World Relevant)
Frame: Full carbon endurance frame
Fork: Full carbon disc fork
Groupset: Shimano 105 Di2 2×12-speed electronic
Brakes: Shimano hydraulic disc brakes
Wheels: Fulcrum Racing 918 DB wheelset
Tyres: Vittoria Zaffiro Pro V 700×28
Tyre clearance: Up to ~32 mm
Geometry: Endurance-focused with longer chainstays
Cable routing: Internal hydraulic routing
The frame is designed for long-distance efficiency, with a taller head tube and longer wheelbase to reduce rider strain and smooth rough roads.
Ride Impressions (Core Section)
Comfort: Built for Distance First
Comfort is the defining strength of this bike.
The carbon frame absorbs road vibration effectively, and the endurance geometry reduces pressure on the back, shoulders, and hands, especially noticeable on rides lasting several hours.
Longer chainstays and frame shaping help smooth road surfaces and maintain stability.
This is a bike that makes rough pavement feel manageable and long rides feel sustainable.
Electronic Shifting: Precision That Changes the Ride
The Shimano 105 Di2 system transforms how the bike feels on the road.
You get:
– Instant gear changes under load
– Perfect shifting every time
– Smooth transitions on climbs
– Consistent performance in all conditions
The 12-speed cassette provides a wide gear range, ideal for varied terrain and endurance riding.
Once you ride electronic shifting on long climbs or fast group rides, it’s hard to go back.
Handling: Stable, Predictable, and Confident
The Infinito XE handles with calm precision.
You’ll notice:
– Predictable steering
– Stability at speed
– Confidence on descents
– Control when fatigued
The taller head tube and longer wheelbase prioritise stability and control over twitchy responsiveness.
This makes the bike especially reassuring on long or technical descents.
Stiffness & Acceleration: Efficient Without Harshness
The frame delivers efficient power transfer, but without the harsh ride of race-focused bikes.
Acceleration feels smooth and controlled, and responsive when pushed, making it ideal for tempo riding.
It’s built for sustained effort rather than explosive sprinting — exactly what endurance riders need.
Climbing: Comfortable and Sustainable
Climbing performance is strong thanks to:
– Lightweight carbon construction
– Wide gearing range
– Efficient pedalling position
The bike encourages a steady rhythm rather than aggressive attacks, perfect for long mountain routes.
Descending & High-Speed Stability
Descending is one of the bike’s biggest strengths.
– Hydraulic disc brakes deliver consistent stopping power
– Geometry keeps the bike planted
– Wider tyre compatibility improves grip
Even at high speed, the bike feels composed and controlled.
Long Rides (4–8+ Hours): Where It Truly Excels
This is the environment the bike was built for.
Over-extended rides you’ll experience:
– Reduced vibration fatigue
– Stable posture
– Predictable handling when tired
– Smooth shifting throughout the ride
Everything about the design supports distance and endurance.
Geometry & Fit
The Infinito XE uses endurance-optimised geometry:
– Taller front end for comfort
• Longer chainstays for stability
• Balanced reach for efficient posture
This puts the rider in a lower-stress position that still allows strong power output.
It’s more relaxed than race bikes, but still performance-oriented.
Wheels & Rolling Performance
The Fulcrum Racing 918 DB wheelset is built for endurance efficiency.
Benefits include:
– Reliable durability
– Smooth rolling performance
– Good balance of comfort and responsiveness
Paired with 28 mm tyres (and clearance for wider), the bike is well-suited to varied road surfaces.
Ride Character Summary
Overall feel:
– Smooth and comfortable
– Stable and predictable
– Efficient for long distances
– Modern performance-focused
It’s a bike that encourages steady pace and sustained effort.
Comparisons
vs Bianchi Infinito CV
CV adds vibration-reducing carbon tech
XE offers similar geometry at a lower cost
vs Trek Domane SL
Domane softer ride feel
Infinito XE slightly sportier response
vs Specialized Roubaix
Roubaix uses suspension-style comfort
Infinito XE uses carbon compliance
Pros & Cons
Pros
– Excellent long-distance comfort
– Precise Shimano 105 Di2 shifting
– Stable endurance geometry
– Wide tyre clearance
– Strong all-round performance
Cons
– Not aero-optimised
– Not ultra-light climbing specialist
– Stock wheels are solid but not premium
Who Should Buy This Bike?
Perfect for:
– Gran fondo riders
– Long-distance cyclists
– Riders upgrading to electronic shifting
– Serious endurance training
Less ideal for:
– Pure racers
– Sprint-focused riders
– Comfort-only casual cyclists
Final Thoughts
The Bianchi Infinito XE 105 Di2 Fulcrum Racing 918 DB is one of the most well-balanced endurance road bikes available today.
It combines smooth carbon comfort, stable handling, modern electronic shifting and real-world versatility.
It’s not designed to win sprints — it’s designed to win long days in the saddle.
For riders who value distance, control, and consistent performance, this bike delivers exactly what endurance cycling demands.
Quick Summary
Best for: Long-distance endurance riding
Ideal tyre size: 28–32 mm
Sweet spot: Comfort + electronic precision
Ride feel: Smooth, stable, efficient
