Factor is reimagining the gravel segment with the launch of its new SARANA, targeting the “ultra” gravel scene by offering front suspension options with up to 30mm travel, as well as a rear triangle that incorporates leaf spring-style seat stays that are designed to further reduce vibration.
“The SARANA represents our deliberate expansion of the gravel spectrum. It’s been created for ultra-distance racing, events measured in days rather than hours, where riders are entirely self-supported and performance depends as much on efficiency and resilience as on outright speed. Races that stretch across countries, through days and nights, where riders are their own mechanics, navigators, and occasionally, their own worst enemies. As our interpretation of what a true ultra race bike should be, the SARANA reflects the same instincts that drive every Factor: curiosity, precision, and the belief that speed is something to be felt as much as measured,” says Factor.
Additionally, Factor says it designed the bike’s geometry with high-speed and variable terrain in mind, with each size dialed in with a fork trail of 60mm, 425mm chain stays and a 73 degree seat angle, while the head tube is 71.5 degrees with a bottom bracket drop of 80mm. Plus, the SARANA also provides dropper seat post compatibility, as well as a wide range of cockpit options from its Black Inc components brand.
Aerodynamics also played an important role when developing the SARANA, treating it an aerofoil-shaped fuselage, along with waterproof frame and top tube bags with welded seams that are designed to further smooth out airflow in the area of the head tube.
Designed around 1x drivetrains only, the SARANA can accommodate tires up to a hefty 57mm, along with chainrings as large as 52T.
“The speeds, durations, and demands of ultra racing were unlike anything Factor had optimised for before, yet the principles were the same: efficiency, responsiveness, control. Working directly with Canadian ultra racer and 2025 Unbound XL champion, Rob Britton, the engineering team began translating his racing mindset into design parameters. British Columbia became the SARANA’s testing ground: vast, rough, and relentlessly varied. Each prototype was ridden, refined, and redefined by feedback from the field. Over months of riding in British Columbia, through heat, rain, altitude, and isolation, Rob pushed each iteration of the SARANA through the kind of punishment only real ultra events deliver. Every ride produced a set of numbers, but more importantly, a set of sensations that shaped the next version,” adds Factor.
Sarana is available in five sizes, across four different build options.
Here’s how the models break down:
Rigid bikes:
Suspension bikes:
Frameset only:
To coincide with the launch of the SARANA, Factor has also rolled out a new gravel wheelset called the Black Inc 46, which, as its name suggests, features a 46mm deep rim with a 27mm inner rim width and 33mm outer. Also, the wheels use bladed steel spokes with brass spoke nipples for durability, while things spin on stainless steel bearings and a three-pawl freehub body with a 30-tooth engagement ring for $1,699.
Factor
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