Parlee 2012 Z5 SLi

*Due to availability of closeouts and the importance of sizing contact us about purchasing any Parlee frame.

Z5 SLi Detail

The Z5 SLi represents the highest evolution of Parlee's high-end stock framesets. Using the same design parameters, materials, and geometry of the remarkable Z5, this SLi takes two steps beyond that standard. Firstly, the SL moniker indicates an impressively low weight. SL series framesets are designed to be as light as reasonably possible through an intelligent carbon layup and minimalist application of frame paint. Secondly, the i in SLi refers to Parlee’s integration system for electronic shifting systems. The Z5 SLi is fully compatible with Shimano’s Di2 and Campagnolo’s EPS systems, with internal wire routing and an integrated battery mount. The result is an extremely lightweight and elegant frameset that takes full advantage of exciting new component technologies.

In continuing the legacy of the Z5 line, the SLi pushes the envelope of what is possible in a stock frameset. Its dramatic weight reduction is perhaps the SLi’s most defining feature, but there’s so much more to this frameset than can be quantified with a gram scale. The Z5’s handling and ride qualities find a balance that larger manufacturers shun in favor of the extremes that perhaps appeal more to their marketing departments than to real world cyclists. Parlee’s carbon layup takes full advantage of the material and its ability to dampen road vibrations while retaining the stiffness-to-weight ratio that has made carbon so incredibly popular in the last two decades. The generous wheelbase and intermediate headtube angle provide precise, predictable handling without feeling too aggressive or overly sluggish.

Over the last several years, frame manufactures have discovered that improvements in front end stiffness and stability can be achieved through the use of an enlarged lower headtube/fork interface. Parlee has followed suit with their use of a tapered headtube and Enve tapered fork, adding a modicum of confidence to the Z5’s already impressive handling.

As one of the most adaptable bottom bracket designs, Parlee’s PF30 was an obvious choice. Modern 30mm spindled cranksets, with their reduced weight and increased rigidity, are fully compatible. Likewise, the more heavily established Shimano Hollowtech II cranksets are easily installed using Parlee’s specially-designed PF30 adapter cups (not included).

Parlee has built a reputation for their high quality finish work, and that attention to detail shows in the Z5 SLi’s minimalist paint scheme in which Parlee’s logos are “ghosted” over a matte black base. The result is a very black frameset that, despite its stealthy look, will be certain to turn heads and draw attention from fellow cyclists.

As a complete frameset, the Z5 SLi includes a Parlee-designed carbon seat collar, a Parlee carbon front derailleur clamp, a painted-to-match full carbon Enve 2.0 tapered fork, and a Cane Creek 40 integrated headset.

Assembly

We recommend that assembly of a high end frame set such as the Z5 SLi be performed by an experienced professional. At Fair Wheel Bikes, we can provide helpful suggestions for component selection as well as partial assembly prior to shipment. Contact us directly for more details.

2012 Z5 SLi Geometry

Parlee’s well-informed and continually evolving FlexFit frame size system is the result of years of painstaking research. Through continual communication with their customer base and extensive testing and information gathering, Parlee has designed a full dozen frame sizes. This staggering number of options allows for the best possible fit, performance, and handling for virtually all sizes of riders.