Ari Bikes launches the All-New Shafer 3.0—built on the success of its predecessor and redesigned with major performance upgrades for more speed and adventure-ready capability on any terrain.
Key goals during the Shafer 3.0 development process were to increase tire clearance, lighten the frame, improve ride comfort, offer additional rider fitment options, and integrate bikepacking essentials all while maintaining standard gravel fitment specifications and Ari’s proven gravel-first geometry recipe.
Key Features of Shafer 3.0
1. Over 200 Grams Lighter
Significant weight savings over the previous gen everyone loved. Refined, more efficient tube shapes and junctions result in a significant weight reduction without compromising strength while adding increased tire clearance, downtube storage, and additional features. A size medium frame (middle of the size range encompassing sizes XS, S, M, L, XL) in the Raw Carbon/Ozark Sunset colorway barely hits 928 grams.The suspension corrected carbon fork weighs 491 grams.
2. Massive Tire Clearance
MTB tires, anyone? Tire clearance has been increased to 29×2.25in (700x58c) on all sizes with additional provision for significant mud clearance above the tire tread. All complete models include rims with at least a 25mm inner rim width to provide ample support and increased volume to the large, fast rolling tires spec’d. Together, the combination of wide tires and generous rim widths provides increased traction, amplifying rider control and confidence.
3. Evolved, Proven Geometry
Rider-Centric positioning, proven stability and agility, toe overlap elimination. To help position riders of all sizes centrally between the wheels and provide an “in the bike” feeling, the chainstay length has been adjusted on each size frame. Ranging from 425mm on the XS up to 440mm on the XL, riders of all sizes will experience a more balanced weight distribution for consistent handling and improved rider experience. As a carryover from the previous generation, the Shafer 3.0’s slack 69° head tube angle with a longer fork offset (50mm) keeps the trail in check, striking a Goldilocks-like balance between high-speed stability and agile direction changes. So too, a keen focus was placed on reducing toe overlap. On an XS frame with 165mm cranks, a size 9 women’s gravel shoe with the cleat placed fully rearward clears the tire through its full range of motion. Toe overlap clearance increases as frame size increases.
4. Cache Frame Storage
A glovebox for your bike. Downtube internal storage has been added to the Shafer 3.0. The Cache (pronounced ‘cash’) storage compartment allows riders to store gear, tools, food, or whatever else they might desire inside the downtube. The co-molded nylon/rubber door seals around the frame keeping water and grime out, while the full-aluminum lever and locking mechanism provide robust attachment to the frame. Easy access to the compartment with or without gloves allows riders to access what they need when they need it.
5. Bigger Rotors, Better Stopping Power
Powerful brakes make riders faster. Gravel bikes are being pushed harder than ever. With additions like suspension forks, dropper posts, and mountain bike width tires, getting rowdy on steep singletrack isn’t out of the question for many gravel riders. So too, when loaded down with extra gear for a bikepacking adventure, more powerful brakes capable of managing heat on a long descent are a welcome addition. To meet these demands, the Shafer 3.0 has 160mm direct flat mount brake mounts that provide clearance for up to 180mm rotors front and rear. Better heat management, more consistent lever feel, and extra power to keep speed in check without excessive hand fatigue—a win-win-win for gravel riders.
6. Suspension Fork Ready
Control and confidence when the road gets rough. The Shafer 3.0 is compatible with suspension forks up to 60mm in travel (like the new RockShox Rudy XL). The suspension corrected fork helps preserve geometry and handling when adding a suspension fork. For the roughest of gravel roads or extra comfort on your daily loop, riders gain more control and confidence when utilizing a suspension fork. It blurs the lines between gravel and XC mountain biking in all the right ways and provides even more capability to an already exceptionally capable bike.
7. Integrated Dynamo Routing
Never charge your bike lights again. Internal routing through the fork on the drive side allows for a clean dynamo hub setup for powering lights or charging devices anytime you are rolling. Clean, simple, and one less thing to remember when you head out on your next ride or bikepacking adventure.
8. Prepared For Every Ride
Mounts to carry everything riders need. Threaded bosses throughout the frame and fork allow water bottles, bags, and gear to be affixed directly to the frame. There is room for two bottles inside each size front triangle, a feed bag mount on the toptube, and three-pack mounts on each fork blade. These mounts, combined with Cache internal storage, provide ample storage for racers and bikepackers alike.
9. Reliably Durable
Designed to endure real-world use and abuse. The Shafer 3.0 has been rigorously tested to ensure it is up for the long haul. The frame has been tested to XC mountain bike standards and is backed up by an industry-best Lifetime Warranty on the frame. Riders can charge hard and know Ari has their back.
10. Integrating Customer Feedback
Ari listens. After innumerable miles and many wonderful conversations with owners, what riders loved about the Shafer 2.0 and what they would change if they could became clear. This customer feedback has been integrated into the frame and is reflected in a traditional seat clamp, increased stack height, and size specific chainstay lengths to maintain a centralized rider position regardless of frame size. The direct feedback loop between Ari and riders (a loop that bypasses the traditional telephone game of relaying information through dealers, to distributors, and finally back to the brand) means that near real-time feedback is available and can be swiftly integrated into Ari’s product offering. Ari truly cares about what its riders are experiencing and works to hone bikes to meet their needs.
Additional Photos
To learn more about the Ari Shafer 3.0, please visit the Ari Bikes Website