Simplon Kiaro in Review

Visually, the Kiaro remains pleasantly understated. No over-the-top aero gimmicks, no exaggerated edges – instead, flowing shapes and clean integration.
Simplon offers the bike in two elegant color variants: white/green for those who like it fresh and eye-catching, and black/white for fans of classic understatement. Both designs look classy and high-quality without being excessively loud.

On top of that, there’s the agony of choice when it comes to the equipment: the Kiaro is available in four variants, priced between 3,499 and 5,699 euros.
The entry-level model already offers solid equipment for ambitious touring riders, while the top version with Shimano Ultegra Di2 and high-quality components leaves nothing to be desired. In between, there are two well-balanced options that – depending on your preference for electronic or mechanical shifting – offer a good balance of price, performance, and weight.
Additionally, the bikes can be individually configured on the homepage.

Tech Specs

On long tours, you quickly realize: small details make a big difference. Simplon has understood this – and equipped the Kiaro with a few smart extras that are usually only found on much more adventure-oriented bikes.
The down tube contains an integrated pouch, perfectly sized to hold a spare tube. Next to it, there’s a small, clever multitool – always within reach but neatly hidden away. They even included a mount for a CO₂ cartridge. A GPS tag also finds its place here.

The carbon frame is designed to cleverly balance stiffness and comfort. Around the bottom bracket and head tube area, everything is geared towards maximum stability, while the slim seat stays and the special carbon structure at the rear absorb vibrations.
It works: Even coarse asphalt, like the cobblestones on the Höhenstraße, feels surprisingly smooth.
At the front, the Raptor fork does its job with its rear-facing dropouts. Simplon calls this special design the “Raptor Dropout” – it effectively dampens vibrations and provides noticeably more comfort, especially on rough asphalt.

A look at the geometry reveals where the journey is headed: stack 599 mm, reach 380 mm; resulting in a stack-to-reach ratio (STR) of 1.58 – meaning an exceptionally comfortable riding position.
You don’t sit stretched out like on a race bike but rather slightly upright, with a wide view over the handlebars. Just right for long tours or relaxed weekends on the bike.

Geometry

On the test bike, the integrated handlebar-stem unit ARC1 was installed – in size M with a length of 105 mm and a width of 420 mm. The handlebar felt stable and ergonomic, but for my taste, it is a bit wide. A 40 cm, or possibly even a 38 cm, would be perfect for me personally to sit more compactly and aerodynamically.
The test model, essentially a representative of the € 5,699 Ultimate line that emigrated from Japan to the USA, was also equipped with a Sram Force AXS 12-speed – electronic, precise, and reliable. The gear shifts are quick and solid, and the system operates quietly and effortlessly. The wheels used were DT Swiss ER 1600 aluminum, robust, stiff, and with a pleasant smoothness. The bike was fitted with 32 mm Schwalbe Pro One tires – a good choice for the Kiaro, as they combine low rolling resistance with remarkable comfort. And if you prefer wider tires: the frame allows for up to 38 mm tire clearance.

If you want all-around practicality, you can also mount fenders – discreet, lightweight, perfectly integrated. This turns the Kiaro into an all-weather companion that remains unfazed even by a rain shower.

The Kiaro is also interesting for beginners. The relaxed geometry, the secure road handling, and the option to mount slightly wider tires make the first steps into the road cycling world enjoyable. Those who have previously ridden a trekking bike or fitness bike will find a smooth yet sporty transition here – with room for improvement.
And the best part: the bike remains versatile. With a set of carbon wheels, the Kiaro can easily be pushed towards performance – less weight, more stiffness, more momentum. A worthwhile investment for anyone who wants more than just a leisurely ride.