Here are a couple of photos that stuck out to me, primarily because this is how my Independent Fabrication Cross Jester (cyclocross bike based on the Corvid road bike) was designed and constructed. ENJOY!!
Showing posts with label independent. Show all posts
Showing posts with label independent. Show all posts
Monday, July 30, 2012
A Recent Visit to the ENVE Factory!
I wish I could say I were the one touring ENVE's factory, but the guys at Singletrack Magazine recently found their way over for a nice tour. ENVE not only make killer forks and cockpit parts, but also makes many of the carbon tubes and lugs you'll find on US custom, hand-made bikes. ENVE works directly with a number of builders to ensure that the perfect tube is chosen for each and every bike that builder makes.
Here are a couple of photos that stuck out to me, primarily because this is how my Independent Fabrication Cross Jester (cyclocross bike based on the Corvid road bike) was designed and constructed. ENJOY!!
Here are a couple of photos that stuck out to me, primarily because this is how my Independent Fabrication Cross Jester (cyclocross bike based on the Corvid road bike) was designed and constructed. ENJOY!!
Saturday, July 21, 2012
Independent Fabrication Delux Redux
This is one I've been waiting on for a bit. While I love following the technological advances in carbon happening now, not the least of which is the Felt Nine FRD I covered here, there's something so incredibly awesome about a retro-modern steel 29er.
After I met Gary Smith of IF, I became even more smitten with their bikes. He was kind enough to help me out with getting me a Cross Jester last fall, has set us up with the first SSR Maxx available to the public, and an incredible Ti Factory Lightweight just to name a few.
But when Gary started teasing info on the Delux Redux I knew he was doing something a little different but a whole lot the same. The details are just now rolling out in full, but a steel frame, an Ingleheart segmented fork, full Shimano XT, and handbuilt wheels by Luxe Wheelworks. Go for El Fabuloso and you also get one-off purple anno Chris King parts!
Just a few of my favorite shots follow, but if you want one you'd better act fast. These are limited to 12 of each color!
After I met Gary Smith of IF, I became even more smitten with their bikes. He was kind enough to help me out with getting me a Cross Jester last fall, has set us up with the first SSR Maxx available to the public, and an incredible Ti Factory Lightweight just to name a few.
But when Gary started teasing info on the Delux Redux I knew he was doing something a little different but a whole lot the same. The details are just now rolling out in full, but a steel frame, an Ingleheart segmented fork, full Shimano XT, and handbuilt wheels by Luxe Wheelworks. Go for El Fabuloso and you also get one-off purple anno Chris King parts!
Just a few of my favorite shots follow, but if you want one you'd better act fast. These are limited to 12 of each color!
Sunday, July 8, 2012
On Test: 2012 SRAM Red Impressions
I opened up my 2012 SRAM Red review process a couple days ago here, but it was based on the building process and a few initial rides. After a few more rides and a bunch more miles, I'm remembering why SRAM is so popular in these parts.
For me, there were two major areas to be covered with 2012 Red: front shifting and ergonomics. Previous generations of SRAM road groups had some lack-luster front shifting that's been covered ad nauseam, so I'll let that one be. The ergonomics were of concern because I really liked them and didn't want them to change.
Front shifting for 2012 Red, to be straight to the point, is roughly 12,496 times better than before. My current setup is using Cannondale rings, solely because I had them and didn't want to buy something new, and still shifts wonderfully. Going from the small ring to the big is smooth, quick, consistent, and light to the touch. Shifting from the big ring to the small is fast and accurate, and without the trim function on the shifters also requires a much lighter touch.
What is it about this new system that makes the shift that much better? The Yaw front derailleur no doubt plays a vital role, but I also feel the lever itself helps out. I'm not sure if it's longer or if the leverage ratio has changed at all, but it seems that a lighter touch is needed to make shifts.
The integrated Chain Catcher is also a really nice touch as it's design allows independent adjustment from the front derailleur. Chain retention systems have become incredibly popular ever since the Schleck Incident, but we've been using them for some time and this one offers unmatched ease of set-up.
The 2012 Red rear derailleur is mostly unchanged, which in my opinion is a great thing. SRAM's rear shifting has always been fast and precise, not something I would mess with either. Graphics have been redesigned to match the rest of the new group but the important stuff is as it should be.
Ergonomics are gladly only slightly massaged. The shift levers find themselves in a very familiar position, though the brake levers and hoods have been slightly reworked. I can say if were riding in the drops I probably wouldn't notice much other than an easier reach to the brake lever.
The upturn at the front of the hood concerned me when I saw early drawings, but once installed on my bike I didn't notice the extra height. That is, I didn't notice the height until I hit a sizable rock on the DPRT that may have knocked my hand off of the hoods with a less exaggerated shape.
Gore housing coming stock is a nice touch, though for my use I'll probably be switching over to the Gore Sealed System for cyclocross. For this original build of 2012 SRAM Red I wanted to use the cables/housing that came stock for a more accurate representation of what customers will get out of the box.
So far I'm psyched on 2012 Red. I delayed the switch because I have been very happy with Dura-Ace, but SRAM was smart and addressed the few issues they had, improved on the things that were already good, all while improving their industry-leading weight.
Now, how about making some other colors available aftermarket? Not all of us are looking for a splash of the color red on our bikes....
For me, there were two major areas to be covered with 2012 Red: front shifting and ergonomics. Previous generations of SRAM road groups had some lack-luster front shifting that's been covered ad nauseam, so I'll let that one be. The ergonomics were of concern because I really liked them and didn't want them to change.
Front shifting for 2012 Red, to be straight to the point, is roughly 12,496 times better than before. My current setup is using Cannondale rings, solely because I had them and didn't want to buy something new, and still shifts wonderfully. Going from the small ring to the big is smooth, quick, consistent, and light to the touch. Shifting from the big ring to the small is fast and accurate, and without the trim function on the shifters also requires a much lighter touch.
What is it about this new system that makes the shift that much better? The Yaw front derailleur no doubt plays a vital role, but I also feel the lever itself helps out. I'm not sure if it's longer or if the leverage ratio has changed at all, but it seems that a lighter touch is needed to make shifts.
The integrated Chain Catcher is also a really nice touch as it's design allows independent adjustment from the front derailleur. Chain retention systems have become incredibly popular ever since the Schleck Incident, but we've been using them for some time and this one offers unmatched ease of set-up.
The 2012 Red rear derailleur is mostly unchanged, which in my opinion is a great thing. SRAM's rear shifting has always been fast and precise, not something I would mess with either. Graphics have been redesigned to match the rest of the new group but the important stuff is as it should be.
Ergonomics are gladly only slightly massaged. The shift levers find themselves in a very familiar position, though the brake levers and hoods have been slightly reworked. I can say if were riding in the drops I probably wouldn't notice much other than an easier reach to the brake lever.
The upturn at the front of the hood concerned me when I saw early drawings, but once installed on my bike I didn't notice the extra height. That is, I didn't notice the height until I hit a sizable rock on the DPRT that may have knocked my hand off of the hoods with a less exaggerated shape.
Gore housing coming stock is a nice touch, though for my use I'll probably be switching over to the Gore Sealed System for cyclocross. For this original build of 2012 SRAM Red I wanted to use the cables/housing that came stock for a more accurate representation of what customers will get out of the box.
So far I'm psyched on 2012 Red. I delayed the switch because I have been very happy with Dura-Ace, but SRAM was smart and addressed the few issues they had, improved on the things that were already good, all while improving their industry-leading weight.
Now, how about making some other colors available aftermarket? Not all of us are looking for a splash of the color red on our bikes....
Friday, July 6, 2012
On Test: 2012 SRAM Red
I hemmed, and I hawed. The previous generation of SRAM Red was good, the rear shifting was great, the weight was the best, but the front shifting was just never there. When perfectly set up, it shifted fine, but not exceptionally.
After a few years of experience, SRAM kicked out 2012 Red, which has addressed all of the major concerns of their top-level group.
Ergonomics were always one of the strongest points of SRAM, so the change to a new lever shape concerned me. But what works for me doesn't necessarily work for everyone, and we heard some people talking about a sharp edge on the back of the lever bothering some hands. SRAM addressed this issue by smoothing the transition from the lever to the bars and adding some rubber inserts if someone still feels some pressure at the rear of the lever.
For years I settled on SRAM's front shifting to get it's amazing weight and to support the local boys. Last winter I strayed to Shimano, drawn in by their industry-standard front shifting. It was great, Shimano did exactly what they claimed. Shifting was spot-on every time, front shifting was incredibly fast.
With the introduction of 2012 SRAM Red, the boys down on Kingsbury addressed a number of things but most importantly the front shifting. The new Yaw front derailleur doesn't move like others, it actually moves laterally and slightly rotates to improve shifting. In doing this, it also eliminates the need for a trim setting. I was skeptical, but after being around this system for a couple of months I'm impressed.
The integrated chain spotter is a really nice touch as it's independently adjustable from the front derailleur. Get your derailleur in place, then use the separate bolt to attach the spotter later. A brilliant design.
The rear derailleur didn't see the same type of overhaul the front derailleur and shifters saw, which is just fine by me. The shifts are crisp as always with a light touch but a positive engagement.
So here's the test rig. If shifting in the stand, or on my short test ride, are any indication, this stuff will be sweet. Now, if the front shifting remains great under power the way it did in the stand, SRAM will have a homerun with their new Red group. It's only a matter of (not very much) time before the tech trickles down to Force-level where things will really get great for the masses!
After a few years of experience, SRAM kicked out 2012 Red, which has addressed all of the major concerns of their top-level group.
Ergonomics were always one of the strongest points of SRAM, so the change to a new lever shape concerned me. But what works for me doesn't necessarily work for everyone, and we heard some people talking about a sharp edge on the back of the lever bothering some hands. SRAM addressed this issue by smoothing the transition from the lever to the bars and adding some rubber inserts if someone still feels some pressure at the rear of the lever.
For years I settled on SRAM's front shifting to get it's amazing weight and to support the local boys. Last winter I strayed to Shimano, drawn in by their industry-standard front shifting. It was great, Shimano did exactly what they claimed. Shifting was spot-on every time, front shifting was incredibly fast.
With the introduction of 2012 SRAM Red, the boys down on Kingsbury addressed a number of things but most importantly the front shifting. The new Yaw front derailleur doesn't move like others, it actually moves laterally and slightly rotates to improve shifting. In doing this, it also eliminates the need for a trim setting. I was skeptical, but after being around this system for a couple of months I'm impressed.
The integrated chain spotter is a really nice touch as it's independently adjustable from the front derailleur. Get your derailleur in place, then use the separate bolt to attach the spotter later. A brilliant design.
The rear derailleur didn't see the same type of overhaul the front derailleur and shifters saw, which is just fine by me. The shifts are crisp as always with a light touch but a positive engagement.
So here's the test rig. If shifting in the stand, or on my short test ride, are any indication, this stuff will be sweet. Now, if the front shifting remains great under power the way it did in the stand, SRAM will have a homerun with their new Red group. It's only a matter of (not very much) time before the tech trickles down to Force-level where things will really get great for the masses!
Monday, June 18, 2012
NEW BIKE DAY! Independent Fabrication Ti Factory Lightweight
It's finally time for this beauty to head home. She was a pleasure to build, every detail combed over nicely and chosen for a specific reason: lightweight speed. Pretty incredible what's being hand-made these days and what frame made almost entirely of metal can still become.
Sure, it wasn't cheap, but it wasn't meant to be. It was built to be the best bike for this rider, holding back nothing, to create something more than just a bike off of a rack. About 8 weeks after the original design was done, the bike is complete and it's beautiful.
The 2012 SRAM Red gruppo seems to be an enormous jump in the right direction for our local buddies. The brakes originally concerned me with their design, the single pivot when announced made me think "Zero Gravity" which meant light but terrible feel. The 2012 Red brakes actually work really well, though.
Front shifting is also vastly improved which was sorely needed. Previous SRAM Red was at the bottom of the front-shifting list when compared to Campy and Shimano, but the new Yaw front derailleur and stiffened chainrings lead to quality front shifting.
Rear shifting from Red was already very good, but 2012 Red gives you a bit of a sexier look and light action. The new design looks great and shifts well, what more could you ask for?
Ergonomics were already quite good with previous generation Red, though it's extremely personal. The new "wedge" system with gel inserts does ease the transition from the lever to the bars, which was an issue for some.
And oversized bottom bracket is a necessity for a bike like this. There's no reason to build a race bike custom without including this as it can be adopted to standard 24mm cranks or you can use the 30mm cranks made for BB30.
A shot of the 2012 Red Yaw front derailleur, the matching braze-on clamp, and the impressively-machined titanium front derailleur shims from IF
Mad Fiber carbon clincher wheelset. Love it or hate it, their weight is nice and the stiffness is there.
The ENVE 2.0 fork was perfectly painted to match the frame, nothing less than perfection will come out of the Independent paint booth.
Another shot of the inside of the fork legs painted to match the scheme on the bike.
The rear dropouts get an etched treatment on each side and are masked from paint to keep that exposed for everyone sucking your wheel to read.
The rear hub shell on the Mad Fiber wheels is made of carbon and totally sexy, whether it's your style or not. You have to appreciate the amount of work that goes into molding these things.
Skewers are a nice place to make an impact, and Mad Fiber took the opportunity to do so. Titanium and carbon, incredibly sexy.
A shot showing the custom paintwork done to match the Prologo saddle to the stem to the bike to the fork. A scheme perfectly carried throughout the entire bike.
A bit more detail on the saddle, which is a great touch you don't see often. Incredible care was taken to ensure that everything went together.
Ti FLW logo found on the carbon seat mast of each frame out of Somerville. You won't see many, soak it in.
The standard sterling silver head tube badge is all class...and not cheap.
A couple cockpit shots to show the custom-painted Zipp SL Speed stem matching the scheme on the bike. Matte black and gloss orange everywhere.
The new down tube script is quickly becoming a favorite on the frames we've been designing.
This seat mast topper is of course custom, but probably more custom than most. We needed slightly less set-back than the stock hand-made offering, so IF came up with a custom design for us.
Sure, it wasn't cheap, but it wasn't meant to be. It was built to be the best bike for this rider, holding back nothing, to create something more than just a bike off of a rack. About 8 weeks after the original design was done, the bike is complete and it's beautiful.
The 2012 SRAM Red gruppo seems to be an enormous jump in the right direction for our local buddies. The brakes originally concerned me with their design, the single pivot when announced made me think "Zero Gravity" which meant light but terrible feel. The 2012 Red brakes actually work really well, though.
Front shifting is also vastly improved which was sorely needed. Previous SRAM Red was at the bottom of the front-shifting list when compared to Campy and Shimano, but the new Yaw front derailleur and stiffened chainrings lead to quality front shifting.
Rear shifting from Red was already very good, but 2012 Red gives you a bit of a sexier look and light action. The new design looks great and shifts well, what more could you ask for?
Ergonomics were already quite good with previous generation Red, though it's extremely personal. The new "wedge" system with gel inserts does ease the transition from the lever to the bars, which was an issue for some.
And oversized bottom bracket is a necessity for a bike like this. There's no reason to build a race bike custom without including this as it can be adopted to standard 24mm cranks or you can use the 30mm cranks made for BB30.
A shot of the 2012 Red Yaw front derailleur, the matching braze-on clamp, and the impressively-machined titanium front derailleur shims from IF
Mad Fiber carbon clincher wheelset. Love it or hate it, their weight is nice and the stiffness is there.
The ENVE 2.0 fork was perfectly painted to match the frame, nothing less than perfection will come out of the Independent paint booth.
Another shot of the inside of the fork legs painted to match the scheme on the bike.
The rear dropouts get an etched treatment on each side and are masked from paint to keep that exposed for everyone sucking your wheel to read.
The rear hub shell on the Mad Fiber wheels is made of carbon and totally sexy, whether it's your style or not. You have to appreciate the amount of work that goes into molding these things.
Skewers are a nice place to make an impact, and Mad Fiber took the opportunity to do so. Titanium and carbon, incredibly sexy.
A shot showing the custom paintwork done to match the Prologo saddle to the stem to the bike to the fork. A scheme perfectly carried throughout the entire bike.
A bit more detail on the saddle, which is a great touch you don't see often. Incredible care was taken to ensure that everything went together.
Ti FLW logo found on the carbon seat mast of each frame out of Somerville. You won't see many, soak it in.
The standard sterling silver head tube badge is all class...and not cheap.
A couple cockpit shots to show the custom-painted Zipp SL Speed stem matching the scheme on the bike. Matte black and gloss orange everywhere.
The new down tube script is quickly becoming a favorite on the frames we've been designing.
This seat mast topper is of course custom, but probably more custom than most. We needed slightly less set-back than the stock hand-made offering, so IF came up with a custom design for us.
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Welcome To My World....
I have seen some of the beautiful views my friends have posted from their offices downtown. Perched in a high rise, overlooking the lake or the loop, through huge windows sitting in fancy office chairs.
Here I sit, on the ground floor, on a Park Tools stool, at a desk I built. But I have an incredible view of two custom Independent Fabrication frames I designed, a Lynskey Cooper and a Ridgeline monstercross, a Boo cross frame, a handful of Niner bikes and frames, and the first publicly available Cielo Sportif Racer SE.
It doesn't get any better than this.
Here I sit, on the ground floor, on a Park Tools stool, at a desk I built. But I have an incredible view of two custom Independent Fabrication frames I designed, a Lynskey Cooper and a Ridgeline monstercross, a Boo cross frame, a handful of Niner bikes and frames, and the first publicly available Cielo Sportif Racer SE.
It doesn't get any better than this.
NEW BIKE DAY! Independent Fabrication Ti Factory Lightweight
This one is getting ready to see it's day. But, one last teaser of one very fun project....
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
(Soon to be) NEW BIKE DAY! Independent Fabrication TiFLW
More details and complete build shots coming soon. In the mean time let me tell you: this thing will be SICK.
Enjoy....
Enjoy....
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