From Etna to the Sea: A Bike with Two Souls We took the new Palta III from Basso Bikes for a spin on the ashes of Mount Etna
The world of cycling is clearly divided between road enthusiasts and gravel riders. Both share a passion for the outdoors, but once in the saddle, the former seek competition and physical challenge, while the latter prefer adventure on dirt roads and less-traveled paths. Basso Bikes bridges this gap with its latest technological innovation: Palta III. This is the third generation of the iconic gravel bike that has established the brand as a benchmark for enthusiasts. To fully immerse us in the world of gravel, Basso Bikes took us to Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. Riding along steep, ash-covered paths, we put the new bike to the test, exploring its performance and all the latest innovations. In just 48 hours, we even reached the sea, experiencing it in every kind of condition - from the most extreme to the everyday.
Every aspect of the Palta III has been refined to deliver a superior riding experience, whether for gravel lovers or long-distance cyclists. Improvements range from weight reduction and enhanced aerodynamic efficiency to the 3B Clamp System, designed to limit vibrations, and the new internal storage compartment. The innovations go even further: the collaboration with Vibram has led to the integration of a rubber layer beneath the saddle, which absorbs impact energy and reduces the risk of scratches. In addition, the partnership with Apidura offers a range of waterproof accessories, ideal for tackling any weather condition.
Palta III has been conceived and built to excel on any type of terrain, even the most demanding and complex. Such as climbing Mount Etna, tackling an extremely challenging route marked by a difficult combination of loose gravel and volcanic ash. This natural setting, as striking as it is hostile, not only tested the athletes’ limits of endurance but also strongly reaffirmed a fundamental concept for anyone who loves adventure on two wheels: choosing the right bicycle is a crucial factor. Having the appropriate bike is therefore the essential first step to successfully and safely tackling any route, whether it’s a fast stretch of asphalt or an exciting exploration on gravel roads.
