Frameset
Frame
Colnago G4-X monocoque carbon frame
Fork
Colnago carbon fork for disc brakes, external cables, round-section legs
G4-X Shimano GRX 822 1x + Alloy Wheels
Introduced in 2024, the Colnago G4-X is a dedicated gravel race platform that leaves behind the cyclocross-first compromises of its predecessor, the G3-X. While it retains UCI cyclocross homologation, its primary focus is high-speed gravel competition. The monocoque carbon frame adopts modern standards, including a threaded T47 bottom bracket, a SRAM Universal Derailleur Hanger, and fully integrated cable routing. Colnago also increased nominal tire clearance to 45mm, reflecting the demands of modern race courses without sacrificing compatibility for 2x drivetrains. Positioned alongside the more endurance-oriented C68 Gravel, the G4-X is an uncompromising tool built for aggressive riders who prioritize power transfer and aerodynamic efficiency over plush compliance. It is a speed-focused chassis designed to excel on fast, rolling terrain and punchy climbs.
$4,750
Image pending
Build
Size
| Stack | 573mm |
| Reach | 390mm |
| Top tube | 560mm |
Fit and geometry
The G4-X geometry is tuned for an aggressive, forward-biased racing posture. Colnago slightly extended the reach compared to the previous generation, encouraging a low, aerodynamic tuck over the front end. This elongated position pairs with a relatively slack 71.5-degree head tube angle on most sizes and a consistent 430mm chainstay length across the board. The result is a fit that naturally weights the front wheel, which testers found highly advantageous for maintaining traction on loose, steep climbs.
While this forward weight distribution aids climbing and fast, sweeping corners, it requires a more assertive riding style on technical descents, where getting your weight back can feel challenging. A notable practical benefit of the geometry is the complete absence of toe overlap across all frame sizes, simplifying low-speed maneuvering. Cockpit setup varies significantly by build; the top-tier models feature Colnago’s CC.01 Wide integrated carbon bar and stem, which locks in the fit and limits accessory mounting, while lower-tier builds use a traditional two-piece Deda alloy setup that allows for easy adjustment.
Full specs
Groupset
Shift levers
SRAM RED eTap AXS HRD (shift-brake system)
Rear derailleur
SRAM RED XPLR eTap AXS (RD-RED-1E-E1)
Cassette
SRAM XPLR 13-speed, 10-46T
Chain
SRAM RED Chain (CN-RED-E1)
Crankset
SRAM RED XPLR AXS 1x, 40T (crank length: sizes 450–480: 170mm; sizes 520–570: 172.5mm)
Bottom bracket
T47 SRAM DUB Road
Front brake
SRAM RED eTap AXS HRD hydraulic disc
Rear brake
SRAM RED eTap AXS HRD hydraulic disc
Front rotor
SRAM CenterLine XR, 160mm
Rear rotor
SRAM CenterLine XR, 160mm
Wheelset
Front wheel
Vision SC 45 Disc carbon wheel (45mm depth, 21mm internal, hooked)
Rear wheel
Vision SC 45 Disc carbon wheel (45mm depth, 21mm internal, hooked)
Front tire
Pirelli Cinturato Gravel 40 TLR
Rear tire
Pirelli Cinturato Gravel 40 TLR
Cockpit
Stem
Colnago CC.01 Wide integrated cockpit stem (size 450–480: 90mm; size 520–570: 100mm)
Handlebars
Colnago CC.01 Wide integrated cockpit bar (size 450: 400mm; 480–540: 420mm; 570: 440mm)
Saddle
Selle Italia Novus Boost EVO Superflow FeC / Selle Italia Model X BB FEC
Seatpost
Colnago carbon seatpost, 0.15 offset, D-shape
Builds
The G4-X lineup spans five complete builds, ranging from mechanical Shimano GRX 820 to SRAM Red XPLR. Colnago does not offer a frameset-only option, meaning buyers must select a complete package. The entry points feature 1x or 2x Shimano GRX groupsets paired with alloy Fulcrum Rapid Red wheels and standard two-piece alloy cockpits. Moving up the ladder introduces electronic shifting with SRAM Rival, Force, or Red, alongside carbon Vision or Zipp 303S wheelsets.
A consistent critique across the build range is the perceived value of the stock rolling stock and contact points. Even the premium SRAM Red build, priced near the top of the market, ships with mid-tier wheels and a heavy Selle Italia Model X saddle. Because the frame utilizes standard interfaces like a T47 bottom bracket and a UDH, future upgrades are straightforward. However, riders seeking peak race performance should factor in the likelihood of immediately swapping the wheels and saddle to match the high-end capabilities of the carbon chassis.
Shimano GRX 820 2x + Alloy Wheels
$4,750
Shimano GRX 822 1x + Alloy Wheels
$4,750
Selected
Shimano GRX Di2 825 2x + Carbon Wheels
$6,250
SRAM Force XPLR 1x13 + Carbon Wheels
$6,250
SRAM Red XPLR 1x13 + Carbon Wheels
$9,750
Reviews
Reviewers universally characterize the G4-X as a highly efficient, rigid machine that behaves much like a dedicated road bike on the dirt. The frame's exceptional power transfer is a recurring theme, with testers noting that the "bottom bracket area is super stiff" (Velo), making the bike feel remarkably responsive during hard accelerations and steep climbs. On smooth, fast gravel, this rigidity translates into effortless speed maintenance.
However, this singular focus on efficiency introduces a clear tradeoff in comfort. The stiff chassis transmits significant feedback on rougher surfaces, with one tester noting that hitting drainage ditches "sent significant shocks through my hands and feet" (BikeRadar). Consequently, riders must rely heavily on tire volume and pressure to manage vibration over long distances.
Handling opinions split depending on the terrain. On sweeping, non-technical corners, the bike is "stable for cornering" and feels "playable and fun to ride" (Signaturecycles). Yet, when the gradient drops into steep, chunky descents, the aggressive posture can feel demanding. It is a platform that rewards skilled bike handlers but is "not a bike that will make you feel like a hero who rides above your skill" (Velo).
