Basso has introduced the Palta III – the brand’s third generation of its gravel platform, and, at launch, is positioned as “the answer to a fragmented market, bridging the gap between pure racing and off-road capability”.
Developed under the philosophy “Two Souls. One Bike. Zero Regrets,” the Palta III is “designed for riders who refuse to choose between fast-paced racing and rugged adventure”.
Evolutionary design and Italian craftsmanship
With the Palta (named after the local Veneto dialect for “mud”) having been first introduced in 2018, the Palta III is the third evolution of the platform. Maintaining Basso’s “Sempre Veloce” (Always Fast) racing DNA, while retaining the versatility needed to cover the vast majority of off-road drop-bar riding.
The launch announcement highlights that with Palta III, geometry has been refined – through small changes – with “every detail having been engineered for the perfect ride”. Also highlighted that “A focus on achieving the perfect fit has been achieved through a high stack, sloping top tube and six overlapping frame sizes to ensure a flexible and tailored fit for every rider”.
The Palta III is available in three colourways – Purple Dust, Carbon Chrome, Galaxy Dream -and backed by a five-year warranty.
Technological refinements
Palta III introduces significant technological refinements across the board. Hand-made in Italy, the new frameset features a mix of high-performance Torayca carbon fibres (70% T800, 20% M40JB, 10% T700) designed to balance weight, stiffness, comfort and strength.
Key design highlights include:
- Reduced Weight: The Size M frame now weighs from just 970g.
- Aerodynamic Efficiency: A 18% reduction in frontal aerodynamic impact area compared to its predecessor.
- Optimised Power Transfer: Bottom bracket and rear triangle stiffness have increased by 19% and 12%, respectively, for explosive acceleration.
- Enhanced Comfort: Head tube stiffness has been reduced by 15% to improve vibration dampening and fluid steering on rough terrain.
Integration of in-frame storage
For the first time on the Palta platform, a dedicated internal storage compartment is included. Concealed by a carbon cover – and secured by a Fidlock magnetic latch with a mechanical locking system – the compartment houses two waterproof internal bags for tools and essentials.
The Palta III utilises the second-generation 3B Clamp System (patent pending), featuring an anti-vibration function that significantly improves comfort on uneven surfaces. This is paired with Basso’s Diamante carbon seatpost and a shorter seat tube to encourage additional flex and extra comfort.
Tyre clearance and frame mounting points
Tyre clearance has been expanded to accommodate up to 52mm at the front and 50mm at the rear, allowing for lower pressures, greater comfort and superior traction on technical trails.
Palta also comes with several extra mounting points. The top tube hosts points both above and below for additional bottles, bags and other accessories. Two further mounting points under the downtube expand storage and hydration possibilities, ensuring riders are fully equipped for any distance.
Vibram collaboration
The Palta marks the introduction of a collaboration on new innovation from Basso and another iconic Italian brand, Vibram.
A specially designed rubber downtube not only protects from scratches and dirt but also helps to soak up energy from impacts.
The guard features a signature ‘Diamante’ texture and proudly displays Vibram’s famous yellow octagon, a mark of performance and durability worldwide.
Apidura partnership
Basso has partnered with leading technical bikepacking brand Apidura to develop a range of bespoke frame bags to complement the bike’s refined approach to race and adventure. Streamlined, integrated and built to perform without compromise, the waterproof bags use bolt-on attachment for a clean, seamless fit while still allowing easy access to bottles and the Palta’s in-frame storage.
In the UK, Basso Bikes are distributed by Chicken CycleKit. With Palta III, there are three UK-specific build options:
- SRAM Force XPLR AXS / Miche Graff Aero 48 Wheelset – £5399
- Shimano GRX Di2 1×12 / Miche Graff Aero 48 Wheelset – £4699
- Shimano GRX 1×12 / Miche Graff XL Wheelset – £3999