June 12th, 2008
Cat Out Of The Bag
I might not know as much about bike geometry as the well read, self educated, and after multiple self-financed experiments (something to do with the paupers wage of an NHS doctor) probably one of the most practically* knowleadgeable geometry/handling experts that is dr j0n. But yesterday I had the pleasure of completing my custom frame order form, slapping down my elctronic deposit, and ordering myself a new frame.
Last time I did this was in 1994 with Dave Yates. I ended up with, for the time, state of the art XC race geometry and disk brakes. Bear in mind that at the time 3" of travel was considered suitable for a downhiller, and disc brakes, especially on an XC machine were the exception not the norm.
Between 1994 and 1998 geometry moved on apace and by 1998 my off the peg Spot had a geometry and handling that is still relevant today. Everything since that 1994 bike has been off the peg, and truth be told, better handling. Spot 1998 geometry it’s going to be all over again.
Emails between the maker and me to discuss finer details are already crossing the, er, ether. It’s a thrill that off the peg doesn’t offer, though a session picking the components for a build with Tim comes really bloody close. And that is something I’ve yet to look forward to. Nitromors may be involved. (How 1992!)
But geometry is only half the story. A bike has to look right to ride right. So I have to find the right colour.
I have a reputation for favouring black which I think is unfounded. Yes, I have four black bikes, but in defence m’lud I offer as evidence one yellow, one orange, two blue, two red, and a khaki. There are pros and cons to them all.
Anquetil Blue?
My last custom was red and to be honest I was disappointed with the shade, too pale compared to the colour chip. On the other hand the Anquetil blue of it’s respray is a lovely colour, but it was slightly darker than the colour chip. Kirstys ice blue Spot, perfectly matched to Rock Shox Dukes was abso-bloody-lutely perfect.
Cold As Ice
Suggestions for colour - backed up by visual examples of the scheme - are welcome. I’m open to anything, panels, fancy paint jobs whatever. Come on - impress me.
As for the brand the only clue I’ll offer at the moment is that as per all my mountain bikes, indeed all my off-road bikes, I’ve met the maker personally**.
* as opposed to internet forum experts.
** it’s not Brant.
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