An Italian gravel frameset for your next custom build

 

The Basso Palta III is an appealing starting point for cyclists planning a premium gravel bike built around their own preferences. Rather than accepting a complete bike’s standard wheels, gearing and finishing kit, buying a frameset lets you choose the components that suit your riding.

Velostrive currently lists the Palta III frameset with Strato stem at £2,599, with both Carbon Chrome and Galaxy Dream finishes available to compare.

That price is for the frameset, rather than a complete, rideable bike. Check your chosen size, current availability and the retailer’s exact package contents before ordering.

What makes the Basso Palta III interesting?

Basso positions the Palta III as a platform for both quick gravel rides and longer adventures. The manufacturer quotes a 970g frame weight in size medium, giving weight-conscious riders a promising foundation for a custom build. This figure refers to the frame, rather than the complete frameset or finished bike.

There is clearance for tyres up to 52mm at the front and 50mm at the rear, providing scope to tailor grip and cushioning to your routes. Actual tyre dimensions depend on the wheel and tyre combination.

Practical details include internal down tube storage with a Fidlock magnetic closure. Basso also uses its 3B Clamp System Gen II, paired with the seatpost, to help reduce vibration reaching the rider. These are useful design features, although they should not be mistaken for suspension.

What does the independent review say?

In its October 2026 review, Cycling Weekly found the Palta III quick and responsive, praising its appearance and effective internal storage. However, the reviewer found the ride firm on rougher trails and questioned the positioning of the small seatpost clamp bolts, which collected dirt.

The tested bike used a Fuga integrated cockpit, whereas the framesets featured here are listed with a Strato stem. Its narrow handlebar criticism therefore relates to that particular complete-bike setup. Your chosen handlebar, wheels and tyres will also influence the finished bike’s fit and ride.

For Velostrive readers, the main takeaway is to consider the Palta III carefully if comfort on rocky tracks matters more than a direct, performance-focused feel. This guide is based on published specifications and independent reporting, rather than a Velostrive hands-on test.

What else will you need to buy?

Before committing to the frameset, price up the entire project. You will need to account for the drivetrain, brakes, wheels, tyres, saddle, pedals and any finishing parts or fittings absent from the supplied package.

Ask the retailer to confirm precisely what is included, particularly the fork, seatpost, headset, axles and handlebar. A product title mentioning the Strato stem does not establish the full contents of the box.

If you plan to transfer components from another bike, have a mechanic check compatibility first. Reusing parts can help control costs, but only when the standards and dimensions match.

Who should consider this frameset?

The Basso Palta III frameset makes most sense for an experienced cyclist who wants control over the finished specification and has a clear budget for the whole build.

It could suit someone choosing particular gearing for steep Welsh lanes, wider tyres for forest tracks or wheels that can handle mixed road and gravel riding. Getting the fit right should come before choosing the colour.

How does it compare with a cheaper complete gravel bike?

At £2,599 before completing the build, the Palta III is a substantial purchase. A complete gravel bike below £2,000 offers a much lower entry cost and gets you riding without sourcing every component separately.

Explore our Best Gravel Bikes Under £2,000 guide and compare the current options on our Cube Nuroad and Specialized Diverge pages.

Those alternatives provide a useful budget comparison, while the Basso’s appeal lies in creating a more individual build.

Is the Basso Palta III frameset worth £2,599?

It deserves consideration if you want a premium custom gravel build and can budget beyond the frameset price. Its appeal is strongest when you already know which components and riding position you want.

Compare the Carbon Chrome frameset and Galaxy Dream frameset, then obtain a complete build quotation before deciding.

• Best Suspension Gravel Bikes for Rough Tracks and Adventures
• Best Gravel Bikes Under £2,000: What Should You Look For?
• Best Gravel Bikes Under £1,500: What to Look For
• Best Gravel Bikes Under £1,000 for UK Riders

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