Get ready, cycling enthusiasts! Pinarello has just unveiled their stunning new F Series, and it’s making waves as it inches closer to the iconic Dogma F than ever before. During a recent launch near the brand’s headquarters, the palpable excitement in the air was mixed with a thrilling sense of déjà vu for me, reminiscent of my exhilarating ride on the Dogma F last year.

So, what makes the new F Series stand out? Simply put, it’s a remarkable homage to the flagships of Pinarello, offering nearly all of the premium performance found in the Dogma F, but at a fraction of the price. For those not part of Team Ineos Grenadier, this bike just might become your new best friend.

Crafting a Unique Identity with Remarkable Features

Unlike other brands that often take shortcuts by using the same molds with lower-grade materials for their entry-level models, Pinarello has gone the extra mile. The F Series is crafted as a unique model with its own dedicated molds and production processes. Yet, it cleverly borrows several innovative features from its illustrious sibling, the Dogma F.

Starting with aerodynamics, the new F Series adopts the cutting-edge E-TICR headset technology, which moves internal cable routing to the front of the steerer. This not only allows for a slimmer headtube but also enhances aerodynamic efficiency, making it a sleek contender in the racing arena.

The redesign continues with the Onda fork, which has been optimized for thinness and paired with a refined rake, aligning geometrically with the Dogma F. This guarantees the outstanding handling that Pinarello aficionados have come to expect.

Aero Excellence Meets Lightweight Design

The F Series also boasts a down tube that’s as slim and sharp as they come, designed to slice through the air effortlessly. Enter the "Aero Keel"—a tall, narrow bottom bracket that harnesses relaxed UCI regulations to enhance airflow disruption.

But aerodynamics isn’t everything; Pinarello’s designers haven’t overlooked weight. With the F7 and F9 variants featuring Torayca T900 carbon, the F Series frameset is now 200 grams lighter than its predecessor and incredibly close to the flagship Dogma F.

Versatility for the Everyday Cyclist

The new F Series makes no apologies for catering to the everyday rider, flaunting a respectable tire clearance of 32mm. This surpasses the Dogma F’s limit of 28mm, responding directly to growing consumer demand for versatility. Federico Sbrissa, the brand's marketing director, emphasizes their commitment to listening to riders: "We’ve watched and paid attention to the market; we know riders are asking for bigger tires."

The Pinarello Experience, Redefined

Despite the F Series being tailored for more casual riders, it retains the fierce competition-ready spirit of the Dogma F. The geometry is identical, allowing for a seamless transition between the two bikes. I tested the F7 on the picturesque hills surrounding Treviso, and it felt just like riding the Dogma F—responsive, agile, and a sheer joy to ride.

As I navigated the slopes, the experience was almost indistinguishable. The bike leaned into turns with the slightest weight shift, and the rear triangle remained steadfast under increased load—essential for tackling steep climbs.

In conclusion, the F Series emerges as the strong contender in Pinarello's lineup, offering near-equal performance and ride quality to the Dogma F, minus a bit of that prestigious World Tour spirit. For cyclists seeking performance that doesn’t break the bank, this bike might just be the perfect match.