A few weeks ago, you could already read about the history of the Italian-Dutch bicycle brand Italvega. Now, it’s time to highlight both top models. Owner Nicholas Hurenkamp gave me the Nuovo Supersport and the Super Speciale to take home. It’s time for the verdict.
Super Speciale
This is Italvega’s all-round model. However, what immediately stands out are the looks. As such, this is Italvega’s greatest weapon. Where most models and brands these days have black as their trademark and often apply subtle colors, Italvega is a fine exception to that current rule. The Super Speciale is available in several colors, including the beautiful Royal Green, our test bike’s color, and Blue Grey. Have a nice color of your own in mind? Much is possible in consultation with Italvega. Feel free to indicate your wishes so you can have unique paintwork and therefore a unique bike made.
The geometry is a bit more comfortable than that of the Nuovo Supersport. On asphalt, the bike feels comfortable and the handling is direct and precise. Gear shifting is a pleasure thanks to the 12-speed Campagnolo drivetrain. You can quickly find the right and finest gear for any gradient. The bike comes standard with 25mm tires, but if you want wider tires, you will unfortunately have to look further. This is because 25mm is the maximum tire width for the Super Speciale. However, this is not a problem with the Nuovo Supersport. The Vittoria Corsa tires give the bike the classic look and complete the beautiful picture.
The cables are nicely concealed internally, which thus also benefits aerodynamics. In addition to comfortable riding, the Super Speciale flourishes in details. For example, the cable nipple is the same color as the frame, and the stem is pleasing to the eye and completely in line with the other colors. Everything has been thought of. This bike is perfect for the sporty cyclist looking for a unique body. A bike that will amaze and give you butterflies in your stomach every time you pull it off the wall to go for miles. Would the wife get jealous?
Nuovo Supersport
The Nuovo Supersport breathes aerodynamics. And that is noticeable while cycling. Every pedal stroke is easily converted into speed, and the bike is stiffer than the Super Speciale. On this bike, you want to hit the gas pedal. Besides the fine looks, the Campagnolo equipment is an absolute must. Italian quality meets design, shall we say.
The bike is also equipped with Deda components, and the stem is painted. The beautiful paint job is a feast for the eyes. This is a bike you will turn your head back to while waiting at the traffic light on a Saturday morning. That beautiful paint job has a small downside, by the way, because you don’t want to damage it. Adjusting your seat post can cause nasty scratches. Case in point, then, to tackle that very carefully.
Although the bike is not lightweight, it has pleasant handling, and you fly over the road. The wide fork and rear fork ensure optimal air flow. The faster you go, the easier it is to generate speed with the Supersport. But even on the rolling roads of the Veluwe, this bike stands its ground. Steering through tight, sharp corners is no problem at all.
In all honesty, a Super Record set-up would not be out of place, but at the same time, it would push up the price tag even further. Scope’s tall R5 wheels further underpin the aerodynamic properties of the frame. Fan of details? The wheel decals are painted in the same color as the frame. On those same wheels are TT tires from Pirelli, allowing you to take full advantage of minimal rolling resistance in dry conditions.
The unique design of both bikes justifies the price. With an Italvega, you will stand out and give your cycling experience a new lease of life.