Rick Ottema’s AURUM MANTO at Unbound Gravel
After stepping onto the podium at Marly Grav Race just a few weeks earlier, Rick Ottema arrived at Unbound Gravel as one of the riders to watch within the Foodmaker GravelKings Team. To take on one of the most demanding events on the international gravel calendar, the Dutch rider relied on an AURUM MANTO equipped with a setup specifically designed to combine speed, efficiency and control across hundreds of kilometres of constantly changing terrain.
In this article, we take a closer look at Ottema’s result in Kansas, the key factors behind his performance, and the exact AURUM MANTO setup he used to tackle the challenge.
Rick Ottema’s result at Unbound Gravel
Once again, Unbound Gravel brought together some of the world’s best gravel specialists on the iconic roads of Kansas. In an edition defined by heat, high speeds and relentlessly demanding terrain, Rick Ottema delivered a strong performance in the flagship 200-mile race, crossing the finish line in 22nd place.
The result confirms the excellent form of the Dutch rider, who arrived at Unbound following a podium finish at Marly Grav Race. In an event where pacing, mechanical reliability and the ability to sustain a high output for more than 320 kilometres are crucial, finishing among the front of the field is a testament both to the rider’s level and to the performance of the equipment beneath him.
The AURUM MANTO setup for Unbound Gravel
In a race such as Unbound Gravel, where terrain conditions are constantly changing and small details can make a significant difference, every component has a specific purpose.
Rick Ottema’s setup was as follows:
Frame: AURUM MANTO
Handlebar: Gemini Älzir
Handlebar width: 38 cm at the hoods / 42 cm in the drops
Groupset: Campagnolo Super Record X Wireless
Cassette: 10-33
Crank length: 170 mm
Wheels: Campagnolo Bora
Front tyre: Panaracer GravelKing X1 50 mm
Rear tyre: Panaracer GravelKing X1 45 mm
Tyre pressure: Between 1.7 and 1.9 bar, depending on course and weather conditions
Bottle cages: Wolf Tooth
Pedals: Wolf Tooth
Chain guide: Wolf Tooth
The entire setup was developed with one clear objective: to maximise speed and efficiency without compromising the comfort and control required to tackle one of the toughest gravel races in the world.
One of the most interesting aspects of this configuration is the tyre combination. The 50 mm front tyre provides increased compliance, stability and confidence over rougher sections, while the 45 mm rear tyre promotes fast and efficient rolling performance.
Another noteworthy element is the relatively low tyre pressure chosen for such a fast race. Running between 1.7 and 1.9 bar improves comfort, increases traction and helps reduce rider fatigue over long hours of racing on unpredictable surfaces.
The Gemini Älzir handlebar also plays an important role. With a width of 38 cm at the hoods and 42 cm in the drops, it combines an aerodynamic riding position on fast sections with enhanced control and stability when the terrain becomes more technical.
Why is the AURUM MANTO ideal for races like Unbound?
The demands of a race such as Unbound Gravel require the perfect balance between performance, comfort and reliability.
The AURUM MANTO was developed precisely to meet those challenges. Its geometry promotes stability during long days in the saddle, while its generous tyre clearance allows riders to adapt their setup to the specific demands of each event.
The ability to run high-volume tyres, such as the 50 mm and 45 mm Panaracer GravelKing X1 tyres used by Ottema in Kansas, gives riders the freedom to optimise the bike’s behaviour according to terrain conditions without sacrificing efficiency.
The result is a bike capable of performing at the highest level, whether in competition or on long-distance adventures, providing the confidence needed to tackle unpredictable terrain for hours on end.
A real-world test for the AURUM MANTO
Beyond the final result, Unbound Gravel remains one of the most demanding proving grounds for any gravel bike.
Rick Ottema’s participation, together with the Foodmaker GravelKings Team, once again demonstrated the AURUM MANTO’s ability to perform when terrain, distance and conditions demand the very best from both rider and machine.
Once again, the combination of speed, efficiency, comfort and control allowed the AURUM MANTO to successfully take on one of the most prestigious and demanding events on the international gravel calendar.
