Well, if you keep doing smart builds like this everyone is going to figure out that 26" wheels worked just great for 30+ years! Seems like you bought back a few days of your life by going with the friction shift. You'll never have to worry about the cable indexing again. You're an inspiration to just get out and ride. Thanks for providing information that I can use.
@RollinRat 26 x 2.5 tires have exactly the same diameter as 650b x 2.0 tires, and they're both reasonably generous volume-wise, so there's not a lot to choose between them; one might be slightly better than the other in certain circumstances and vice versa. The place where 27.5 is going to win out *these days* is tire choices on the market. That's why even those old French randonneur bike makers eventually abandoned 650b for 700c; it's not that 700c is intrinsically better, it was just easier to get parts. Today there's a been a resurgence of 650b road/gravel tires, so there's great tire choices available, but you still can't get certain things, like latex tubes.
RollinRat I started on steel bikes in the fifties. Still ride steel daily. Too many carbon frames broke plus they're ugly to me. Long times cyclist 14 k yearly. It's definitely the Indian not the arrow. At 72 I ride away from youngsters on very expensive bikes with fancy wheels . No shortcuts, just ride lots
I like the bike! As a retired bike mechanic, I agree with you on internally routed cables. They are bad enough when working on a bike in a stand but can be almost impossible out on the trail.
I really dig that you've gone and brought the 26" wheel set back into relevance. I built a late 90s Litespeed Unicoi (Ti, with that lovely 20mm soft tail - see the new Moots YBB for comparison) last year and while I'd like a Ti fork, I installed a Carbon fork and made a sub 23lb bike, which I love for less than $1,000. Ti and 26" is doable on a budget, folks. Recycle, reuse.
Recycle and reuse absolutely. I just bought a 20 year old Litespeed Saber. Expected it to be 700c but I actually love the way 650C rides and the bikes fits me being on the short side. Can't beat that polished metallic look. I ended up just throwing stickers all over it to make a tattoo bike cause I don't want to paint over the bare metal. Next bike is defintely gonna be a used Titanium mountain bike that I plan to turn into a gravel bike. The peace of mind not worrying about breaking something or rusting out is gold. My next project tho is my converting my wifes cruiser in a electric moped so she can keep up with me.
@@jojoadeyemi8239 Yes. You've got it going on as well. The old Litespeed frames are excellent and readily available for cheap. No stickers on mine except for the Partypace sticker on the seat tube because I like supporting channels like this that encourage my butt to get off the couch and take a bike for a ride.
I did a similar setup only with a really nice Rocky Mountain Blizzard with Tange Superlight Prestige steel tubing and a segmented titanium fork. It's really comfortable and I enjoy the drop bar
Russ, I always love your reviews. I feel like you do a great job of explaining living with a bike, as opposed to just riding it. As someone who loves to do as much of his own maintenance, I can see how that brake hose at the chainstay would be a bear to install. It wouldn’t be. Deal breaker but is good to know for a potential buyer. Thanks for another great video
Awesome build! The contrast between the bling frame and the accessible components is great. It’s refreshing to see a build that’s not just someone throwing tons money at it so it’s “cool”
26" forever ! That being said, you are 100% correct about that rear brake cable routing, that is a terrible series of bends for a cable to have to work through. Great bike and a great video.
So I am 1:28 in and I love your passion and your knowledge. I won't comment on whatever comes next but just wanted to say that your intro really grabbed me.
Russ, I'm running those Rene Hearse tires on my surly long haul. they are truly the best bike part I've ever bought Keep on being you man, youre doing good stuff.
Dude, that bike is fantastic. Also, put on whatever parts make you happy! On a frame like that you can swap and configure whenever you get crazy and fun ideas. The bike will always have an amazing core and you can dress it up for whatever mood fits you.
I'm right with you on the routing. If I ever get another frame, it will have external cable routing. Not only is it simpler, I love seeing the mechanicals.
With you all the way on external routing and just last week I freshened up for a neighbor a ladies' 24" Fuji by installing new rear rim-brake pads and a new rear cable. And external everything made for quick work.
I have the 11 speed version of that shifter on my commuter and I love it! For some reason it started giving me issues routing along the handlebar a few months after installing it, so I've since reverted to the "lazy loop", but it's been working perfectly on my daily ever since.
I have a pair of Shimano dura ace (sadly only index these days!) bar ends on a previous build. They had a U shaped protective cover for the cable with them. You may be able to get this separately. It worked well and meant I didn’t have to loop.
My main adventure bike is 26" by default. I built up a '90s RockHopper with modern components and a disc fork for a budget mountain bike build that transformed to something much nicer and all 'rounder as I upgraded and rode it more. I don't have much to compare for tire sizes since I don't have a lot of bikes. But I absolutely love the 26 x 2.2" platform. Super nimble and quick, and great acceleration without a super small front ring. I run 36t x 11-40t and it is perfect for all I do. Would love a pavement bike with 26 x 2.3 smooth tires.
Nice build and video. I'm a big fan of 26ers for their durability and low cost. I have a drop-bar conversion Habanero Ti 26er running Tiagra 9 speed 1x and a customer Rodriguez steel friction shifting 2x9 running 26ers. Easy to work on a go-anywhere bikes.
Awesome build Russ! You are exactly right about the rear brake housing exit. A handful of companies build their frames this way to be optimized for hydraulic brakes. Nonetheless as a bike mechanic, I've seen many people run cable discs with this type of chain stay routing the same way you did. Everything looked perfect, great job!
Nice work Russ! And that looks like an utterly sweet bike. As for 26”… I still have a 26er on the fleet, but as a Very Tall Man, since discovering the big 29, a ride on the smaller bike just feels like I’m on skateboard wheels and I really feel the hits from ruts and roots. Each to their own, enjoy the bike!
Being a shorter guy myself, I love 26ers and find myself often drawn to 90s MTB dropbar conversions for that reason. This seems like an awesome build. TI is a pretty neat material for bikes, esp. smaller frames. I have a Why? R+ and I feel like I can feel the spring that you always hear proponents of steel mention, but that I've never really experienced in steel - I think b/c the tubes are all so short. Congrats on wicked looking machine!
Love the build! Bought the posideon redwood based on your recommendation last year and the micro advent group set is perfect for riding around. I am running a 34t up front and find it perfect w the 11-48
Congratulations on your new dream bike Mr Russ! I'm looking forward to seeing more of it in future videos. I've taken note of the things that were a little spendy and the things that were a bit more budget, well done.
Congratulations on the new bike, it is a beauty. Since you asked, I am currently in love with 700c/29 wheels, they just roll so good and you just can't beat the roll over. Also I prefer straight bars but drop bars have their place in any good stable so I will always have one. That said, I want "brifters". Cables? internal sucks to work on but damn those bikes that completely hide every hint of a cable are the coolest looking ever to my eyes and I hope to someday own one.
Love a new bike build! I am going back to friction shifting for the Gorilla Monsoon I picked up today. Using dc ene wing shifters… these are Russ’ fault! Showing us fun stuff to put on our bikes 😆 As for the wheels 26/650b/700c - seems to me that there are now good tires available on all options now so you can actually run the right wheels for the frame size depending on your height/inseam.
Awesome review and bike, thanks Russ!! I think if manufacturers make 26" to the same tubeless standards as 650B, we'll have an MTB wheelset for our gravel bikes. What a dream!
Finally decided to order up one of the Twisted T-Racks while watching this and they're sold out! I feel like that has to be thanks to your review. Good on ya for showcasing some of the small makers out there!
I love bar end friction shifters. The flexibility is reason enough and I actually don’t shift constantly as I am not “cadence sensitive” anyway. Nice bike….good review. Enjoy !
My wife and I both have the Bearclaw Thunderhawk because of your original video. We love them. Funny both of ours have external cabling. Too bad they didn't have an OG frame for you. Thanks for all that you do.
I've been rocking a Surly Troll for a long time with steel frame and 26 inch wheels. It does the job and can fit road touring tyres all the way to 26x3 plus wheels for some offroad fun! My 29er can roll over baby heads a bit easier, sure, but I also have to run a much smaller seat pack.
Huge fan of your channel, and of this amazing bike:) I got one last year and it's been absolute dream. I 'think' I'd found it before you reviewed it in 2020 (not sure) but I know you helped push me toward the purchase with your detailed and balance review. I couldn't be happier. You should have seen the smile on my face when i clicked on this video and realized you got one. Happy for you dude. Supple side down!
You made a video recently showing that you you replaced all your 1x bikes with 2x. I guess this bike no longer has a single chainring. Exceptional bike.
I used to dig the internal routing on frames until I got my Twin Six Rando with external routing and I love it. Looks super clean too. Unless the bike is a carbon frame with specific channels for cables to go through external routing is the better solution.
Going into my 3rd year with the Thunderhawk and couldn't be happier! I have it paired with a Lauf suspension fork and wireless shifting which helps tremendously during all day rides on gravel. Mine was pre-internal routing and I would agree with your opinion, especially with regard to the brake routing exit in the rear chain stays.
Really nice build. The Thunderhawk was one of my finalists for a gravel bike but I went with a Co-motion Klatch. I do have a couple of Co-motion's and they are some pretty sweet rides.
I use electrical wire connectors just cut the cable at the brake lever or shifter. Then crimp the cable's together you can even use the wire crimper to roll the outside corners so they slide across lip better. I like your titanium bicycle and really can care less on how a younger generation has to abbreviate everything they can get away with. I ride a extra large masi with a four inch handlebar riser my bar end shifters did not need tandem cable's when I had drop bars on it. I was surprised that you needed them. Thanks for the video your doing great!!
Sweet ride. Love the look of a Ti frame. Never have to worry about nicks and scratches In paint or clear coat ever. Fun component and wheel choice. Thanks for the video.
The bar end shifter is GENIUS, loved it and I came to that solution on my current rig as well, after trying out pretty much everything (R7000, Rival 1, Tiagra 3x, etc). I also agree on the brake cable routing, it was not cleverly executed and I've seen better in there. Loved the 26" wheels, although a 27.5 x 2.2/2.3 would do the trick as well (with the obvious weight penalty). Overall I really dig it! Keep it up Russ
Ding ding ding...you nailed it for me with the brakes and the internal routing. The issue there is that the internal routing is designed to be smooth with hydraulic brakes and for whatever reason these mechanical brakes align the cable on the other side of the brake. And it's not just the Yokozuna and Juintech (which are the same) it's also the TRP HY/RD. The cable stop is outboard of the disc where on hydraulic brakes the hose is inboard and on a brake like the TRP Spyre it is inline. As you noted it results in that crappy cable orientation which loves to pull on the brake caliper in a twisting motion and you get brake rub. Same issue with internally routed forks as well. Such a bummer as I was going to update my partner's Specialized Ruby to these brakes but they just don't work well with internal routing. I wish they would update the brake design to be equivalent to what's pretty much an industry standard. But as you said...external routing also solves the issue.
Yeah, just like the hole for the rear derailleur @10:50, they could put it in the middle-top of the non-drive chainstay, which would work for routing any of the brakes you mentioned - inboard, inline, or outboard. So frustrating.
Nice. You would make a good investor. You consider your position, make a plan and execute. You know exactly why you do what you do. You are not interested in why others may do things differently. This is actual confidence. Very good brother...
What a beautiful bike, Russ! 😍 It looks like a terrific build too, especially as it does what you want. You get all the thumbs up at this household. 👍👍👍👍 As for the internal routing, you know Park makes a tool for that, although I'm surprised it isn't sleeved.
I've been saving up to buy a Thunderhawk as well, I think you spent money on the things that matter the most! Sick build. I'm definitely as nit picky about cable routing as well and hope they change that rear brake routing soon. I would've rather had external routing....
Nice bike Russ, congratulations! I got lucky enough to score a used Ti road bike a few years back and love the ride quality. I'm also a big fan of the Advent drivetrain, bang for the buck it is the best deal going. Enjoy it!
Would love to see a review on the titanium fork. At that price point ($650+) it's not an easy decision. Curious if you considered Lynskey, noticed you didn't even mention them. Yet mentioned Mouts (which is even more expensive than Bearclaw). External and internal routing options (oh and the chain stay slot is on the top for internal).
Welcome to the world of Ti. It's kinda a sickness. I really dig the simple build. I have the Bearclaw fork on my Lynskey gravel bike. Jason at Bearclaw was super cool to me when I ordered it two years ago. I like it and look forward to your thoughts. As to that tricky brake housing - have you tried running the housing under the chainstay and around the bottom to the outside? The added length may help reduce the angle and since the brake cable stop is set toward the outside maybe it will help. Just an idea. I hope that makes sense.
Nice looking bike and very functional build! Please forgive me, but watching you riding from the side it looks really like a 90th MTB with a ridgit fork, but with a drop bar. ;-) I couldn't resist... Due to the small wheels and the long stem it looks too small for your size and you could hit the front tire with your toes. I'd prefer a shorter stem (-3cm) and a frame with a longer reach (+3cm) to have a more stable ride especially going down hill. I recently moved from a 26" fully mtb plus a 26" hardtail to a 29" trailbike and I'll never look back. The ride is so much smoother. If I'd buy an adventure or gravel bike I'd chose 29" wheels 7 days a week. With continental race king tires there's not much rolling resistance. But no matter what, keep riding and have fun!
I did a mullet with a 34t. I worked ok for climbing, but I would spin out on the flats. I went back to a 2x setup and that was way better for climbing, but I should have done a 36t or bigger for the big ring. Fantastic range.
My gravel grinder CAAD X came with TRP mechanical disc brakes . . . which sucked! A couple of weeks ago I replaced them with TRP cable actuated hydraulic brakes. The front brake was a lot better, not so the rear, so I ordered. per YT research, noncompression housing. The CAAD X also has internal routing (downtube) to the rear caliper. however, it is not internally routed through the chain stay which should make things a lot easier. Although I have replaced internal cables/housings before, I never realized the nc housing might be more difficult to route. Anyway, congrats on the the new bike and regards to you both.
Nice bike. I've always wanted a titanium bike. I raced a Merlin once in a mountain bike race in 1987, which I borrowed from the then national champion, Andy Tout. It felt like what a ride should feel like. But I've never had enough money for an all ti machine. Now it doesn't matter. Older, slower, time to stop deluding myself. I have enough bikes for cryin out loud. I really like that you have the bar con friction shifter on the bars. I've never owned a bike with the gear shifters and brake levers combined. They don't put tuners on guitar pegs. They don't sell fish hooks with worms already on them. You have to learn a skill or two. And yes, you have all the time in the world to make your shifts. I have a downtube mounted friction single shift lever on my vintage Panasonic, set up as seven speed tourer. I'm recommending that riders find good old steel ten speed handlebars and bend them into randonneurs shape. It's easy and makes a whole new thing that's so cool to use.
Great bike, I have an older Thunderhawk with external routing. I found that the derailleur hangar is a bit stiff and has a tendency to snap quite easily. Otherwise very happy with the frameset! Smooth and lightweight.
That is a sweet bike you have there and that 26 inch makes a lot of sense for it. I am currently using 27,5 X 2,8 inch tires in my touring bike. On my gravel bike I have 700c and 35mm. I am quite tall, and for me those are two pretty nice tires with very different feelings and use cases. I rarely want anything in between them. I notice that those bigger wheels that I have are a LOT less sturdy than a smaller wheel would be and that can cause spoke losses but it is rather rare as long as the tensions are kept in check.
Awesome you joined the ti party! Love my Lynskey GR300. I only dayride, no heavy touring gear, so no need for a burly ti fork. I am looking at the Lauf Grit fork for the local washboard stuff that jars my fillings loose but man that fork is expensive.
Hey there. I’m looking at buying a used gr 260 from a friend. Super good deal. The frame is larger than I’m used to but it seems to fit me pretty well. Surprisingly. I’m borrowing it for a couple of weeks for some longer rides. I may put 650b wheels on it just to drop the center if gravity down a bit. Any thoughts on this?
@@SavGaEckmann I’ve passed on a lot of bikes that were too large for me these days. Learned from experience that fit is everything and a bike that doesn’t fit is uncomfortable and doesn’t get ridden. Only changes I’d rely on are ones I can make to the cockpit. Standover height is probably my most important measurement as I’m a novice rider so I have to step down quite a bit. My GR300 is Small but according to Lynskey’s site, I should be on a Medium. Glad I chose the Small.
@@jp93309 Thank you. Stand over height isn’t a problem. I can stay in flat-footed over it with just a smidge of wiggle room under the junk. Much like Russ describes with his bear claw and one of these videos. And the reach is almost identical to my favorite ole bike. That’s the one my wife is riding now LOL. Do you mind me asking what your dimensions are? I am 5’6”with a 30 inch inseam.
Bar end shifters FTW! If people don't think they can get the hand of friction (even though it is super easy) you can go with indexed shifters. Also, you can go with Gevenalle if you want to shift from the brake hoods. Friction = bulletproof
Wow I like bikes but never actually had like to know about in detail. In terms of the parts and sizes ...lol I guess theres alot in this world that we have to open up to learning and growing to love .Goodluck Russ with your bike nd I'm sure every ride will be a new adventure
Like you, Russ, I often tinker with my bikes and swap components around. After cutting the rear brake hose and replacing the olive several times on my ti gravel bike, I recently temporarily tie wrapped the hose externally whilst trying some alt bars; funny thing is, until I watched this video I had forgotten I’d done so. I am also convinced that a full length gear cable housing offers better shifting than internal . As I recall Bearclaw previously assured us that external cable routing was best; presumably they bowed to the pressure of fashion, which is understandable, but a shame.
What a beautiful bike! Congrats. I love that you're running 26 in on this one. I've been running a set of the Humptulips for a bit now (51mm wide on Velocity Cliffhangers) and I like them a lot. Could 26 be poised for a comeback? Only time will tell,lol.
Really interesting and the bike looks fabulous. Just bought a Fairlight Secan Reynolds 853, agree with you totally about cabling the Secan is external and I love the fact its so easy to work on, running a similar 1X setup with hydraulic disks so I’m really hoping its just the one cable I have to look after! Ride safe and enjoy your bike.
10sp AdventX with barcon shifter is a great drivetrain choice. I've got Advent on 4 of the bikes in my stable. The performance is great and the value is incredible. I'm a fan of barcon shifters too and like running the long tandem cable under the grip tape too.
Funny with my mtb to gravel conversion I squeezed some 700 x 38 Vittoria Terreno and it actually made the bike feel faster than the 26 inch it had prior.
Nice bike! I've just put a deposit on a custom road titanium frame from Waltly here in China, sinceI just love the look of titanium and still don't feel overly comfortable with the idea of a full carbon frame. Ti just looks so much cooler and classier than carbon. I am in the process of getting my frame designed (I'm going with internal routing for a cleaner look) and will definitely take your comment about the position of the rear brake cable housing exit hole in mind and get the hole on the top of the chain stay and a bit further back from the caliper mount, since I too will be using cable actuated hydraulic brakes with compressionless housing.
Wow. Very nice bike. Love it. Titanium is my dream. And 26” is so cool. Bars ends - would prefer indexed for 10 speed. I struggle with friction past 7/8 speed. I also prefer routing the cable without the big loop. Much neater and I’ve never had a problem with cable binding. Hydro mechanical brakes - for me one or the other. Prefer the simplicity of full cable but the feel of full hydro has always been the game changer. Internally routed. I feel your angst. Cheers.
I had the opposite with my rear brake when using TRP Spyre calipers. My rear brake cable runs down the outside of the seat stay & trying to bend compressionless cable was putting more strain on the fittings than I was happy with so I used a "V" brake noodle to make the bends to the caliper. Then I changed to Juin Tech GT's, now the cable has a gentle curve into the caliper :)
Very very cool build I probably would have put it together almost exactly the same especially with the friction shifting after trying it for the summer I am a full convert!!
Absolutely love this build. The components are nice where it actually matters, and humble where it doesn't. Why spend $200 for a brake lever? I also agree that all-metal is the way to go. It just makes sense for a bike that will be able to carry you and your stuff for decades to come. Thank you for being you, Russ. P.S. You could just zip tie the cables to the outside of the frame. That'll really annoy the haters!
Fun bike & good match for your riding it seems. Congrats! Regarding the internal routing - from conversations with a couple expert mechanics while doing my own bike search - the ease of routing is a design issue. A top exit, which may require tubing shape change, would make it easier. The mechanics I spoke with also stated that how the internal guides are set up can make a huge difference. Definitely one area where I might pay to have someone else do the work to save on swearing.
There's a reason I've kept my Soma Analog MTB w/ 26inch wheels around. It's a fun bike to ride and it was what I rode the GDMBR on. Marketing convinced folks that 26ers were incapable of riding rough, chonky terrain when in reality they're a nimble tire for tight trail riding and gravel roads.
@@chuckincakes9498 Shimano 2x9 xt drivetrain. avid mech'l disc brakes, rockshox reba sl. I'm debating as to whether or not i upgrade to a 1x11 drivetrain.
I own a Thunderhawk with external cable routing. And have sometimes wish I had the internal routing only because it looks so clean. But this is a reminder that I'm all good with external routing on my Thunderhawk. Keep doing what you do brother. I'm always looking forward to new content from you. If you're ever down this way (Tucson), reach out and let's ride. You even have a place to crash to save yourself a few dollars.🌵🏜️🚲
Russ - I purchased the Bearclaw Beaux Jaxon based partially on your review of that bike. I was surprised when it showed up with internal routing. Apparently that is new for bearclaw and not reflected on their website. Had the same experience as you. Some of the “coat hangers” worked and some didn’t. Was saved by the park tool internal routing kit which also allowed me fish a fragment of the broken routing wire out of the frame. Not easy but it could have been worse. Also no ports for a dropper so that would have to be zip tied to the frame with an external trigger or wireless. I’m running grx 1x11 with a 36 tooth chain ring and 11-42. Seems to work pretty good for my applications. Need to find some lighter wide tires. First bike I’ve ever build so lots of learnings. Happy riding.
With you 100% against internal routing! Ultimately it equates to a world of headaches just for aesthetics - booooo! Great new bike with a very interesting set up. Can't say I'd ever go back to 26" wheels but then I ride large to XL frames. Long Live Party Pace!
Beautiful bike. I could sit in the garage and stare at it with a beer on hand. Also, nothing wrong with bar end shifters. I prefer them to brifters any day of the week. Lastly, Microsoft Advent Is a killer groupset.
I like those handlebars. Appears to have a similar outward tilt to the Salsa Woodchippers/Cowchippers I have on a couple of bikes, but the hooks are shallow and don't stick out as far as the Woodchippers do. I'll have to look and see if you've already published a review on those.
@@Jean-jk4zv Redshift Kitchen Sink bars. Russ did an unboxing a few months back and appears to be doing a long term test with them on the Jamis Venture now.
@RollinRat Interestingly, I'm primarily a hood rider and what I like about dirt drops is the outward tilt of the brake levers. It is just a natural and comfortable position for me. About 24-25° seems perfect. I tried some bars with a much greater tilt a few years ago, but it was too much for my liking.
@RollinRat glad to here you like the Venturemax. I just purchased the 56cm version but also considered the Kitchen Sink bar. Decided I wanted a wider bar for bikepacking.
@RollinRat Yes, all good reminders, but for normal riding, I find it comfortable. And yes, my screenname is based off of Calvin's Spaceman Spiff persona.
Another great video. I’m running 1x GRX on my drop br Karate Monkey (with XT cranks). I also run 36T front ring with an 11-46 rear cassette. Like you say slightly under geared but I only rarely spin out and I like being able to climb very steep technical stuff 👍
love the 26 cant wait to hear more about what you think about those tires. I havent pulled the trigger on them yet but I really want to pair them with something super wide like the velocity dually. I think the friction shifters are more than adequate, the micro-shifts aren't even that cheap they're like 50-60 bucks but the big thing is they make any build look super clean. Modern shifters work great I guess but they tend to be bulky unlike a good thumb-shifter which is lowkey, simple and compact.
Russ, Park tool makes a really useful tool for running internal routing. Its uses a magnet, not easy but way easier than other ways. But you are correct, they should have run that exit hole on the non drive chainstay closer to the BB shell, but its easy to be an armchair frame builder so hey I'd say they did a pretty nice job. That looks like a very stiff fork.
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
Well, if you keep doing smart builds like this everyone is going to figure out that 26" wheels worked just great for 30+ years! Seems like you bought back a few days of your life by going with the friction shift. You'll never have to worry about the cable indexing again. You're an inspiration to just get out and ride. Thanks for providing information that I can use.
Say it!! Russ is the man!!👍🤘🤙
@RollinRat 26 x 2.5 tires have exactly the same diameter as 650b x 2.0 tires, and they're both reasonably generous volume-wise, so there's not a lot to choose between them; one might be slightly better than the other in certain circumstances and vice versa. The place where 27.5 is going to win out *these days* is tire choices on the market. That's why even those old French randonneur bike makers eventually abandoned 650b for 700c; it's not that 700c is intrinsically better, it was just easier to get parts. Today there's a been a resurgence of 650b road/gravel tires, so there's great tire choices available, but you still can't get certain things, like latex tubes.
RollinRat I started on steel bikes in the fifties. Still ride steel daily. Too many carbon frames broke plus they're ugly to me. Long times cyclist 14 k yearly. It's definitely the Indian not the arrow. At 72 I ride away from youngsters on very expensive bikes with fancy wheels . No shortcuts, just ride lots
for low people ..
From a physical standpoint 26inch does nothing better apart from being lighter tho.
I love the way you address future comments ahead of time, like the friction shifters on such a ""nice bike". Very sensible!
I like the bike! As a retired bike mechanic, I agree with you on internally routed cables. They are bad enough when working on a bike in a stand but can be almost impossible out on the trail.
I really dig that you've gone and brought the 26" wheel set back into relevance. I built a late 90s Litespeed Unicoi (Ti, with that lovely 20mm soft tail - see the new Moots YBB for comparison) last year and while I'd like a Ti fork, I installed a Carbon fork and made a sub 23lb bike, which I love for less than $1,000. Ti and 26" is doable on a budget, folks. Recycle, reuse.
Recycle and reuse absolutely. I just bought a 20 year old Litespeed Saber. Expected it to be 700c but I actually love the way 650C rides and the bikes fits me being on the short side. Can't beat that polished metallic look. I ended up just throwing stickers all over it to make a tattoo bike cause I don't want to paint over the bare metal.
Next bike is defintely gonna be a used Titanium mountain bike that I plan to turn into a gravel bike. The peace of mind not worrying about breaking something or rusting out is gold. My next project tho is my converting my wifes cruiser in a electric moped so she can keep up with me.
@@jojoadeyemi8239 Yes. You've got it going on as well. The old Litespeed frames are excellent and readily available for cheap. No stickers on mine except for the Partypace sticker on the seat tube because I like supporting channels like this that encourage my butt to get off the couch and take a bike for a ride.
@@fiveacrespread3756 Partypace stickers look good on it. 👍🏾
Shhhh... I need some great deals to be available when I do my build. Great build!
I did a similar setup only with a really nice Rocky Mountain Blizzard with Tange Superlight Prestige steel tubing and a segmented titanium fork. It's really comfortable and I enjoy the drop bar
Russ, I always love your reviews. I feel like you do a great job of explaining living with a bike, as opposed to just riding it. As someone who loves to do as much of his own maintenance, I can see how that brake hose at the chainstay would be a bear to install. It wouldn’t be. Deal breaker but is good to know for a potential buyer. Thanks for another great video
Awesome build! The contrast between the bling frame and the accessible components is great. It’s refreshing to see a build that’s not just someone throwing tons money at it so it’s “cool”
Didn’t realize Jason changed that. Original bike had external routing to keep it simple. Been saving for one too!
26" forever ! That being said, you are 100% correct about that rear brake cable routing, that is a terrible series of bends for a cable to have to work through. Great bike and a great video.
So I am 1:28 in and I love your passion and your knowledge. I won't comment on whatever comes next but just wanted to say that your intro really grabbed me.
Russ, I'm running those Rene Hearse tires on my surly long haul. they are truly the best bike part I've ever bought Keep on being you man, youre doing good stuff.
As a bike shop employee all of my bikes are a hodge-podge of random parts I got for a deal. Always works! Love your build!
Good looking build. I dig the single bar end shifter.
Dude, that bike is fantastic. Also, put on whatever parts make you happy! On a frame like that you can swap and configure whenever you get crazy and fun ideas. The bike will always have an amazing core and you can dress it up for whatever mood fits you.
I'm right with you on the routing. If I ever get another frame, it will have external cable routing. Not only is it simpler, I love seeing the mechanicals.
sorry to disagree- I love the aesthetics of internal routing- but I leave installation to those that know how!
With you all the way on external routing and just last week I freshened up for a neighbor a ladies' 24" Fuji by installing new rear rim-brake pads and a new rear cable. And external everything made for quick work.
I have the 11 speed version of that shifter on my commuter and I love it! For some reason it started giving me issues routing along the handlebar a few months after installing it, so I've since reverted to the "lazy loop", but it's been working perfectly on my daily ever since.
I have a pair of Shimano dura ace (sadly only index these days!) bar ends on a previous build. They had a U shaped protective cover for the cable with them. You may be able to get this separately. It worked well and meant I didn’t have to loop.
My main adventure bike is 26" by default. I built up a '90s RockHopper with modern components and a disc fork for a budget mountain bike build that transformed to something much nicer and all 'rounder as I upgraded and rode it more. I don't have much to compare for tire sizes since I don't have a lot of bikes. But I absolutely love the 26 x 2.2" platform. Super nimble and quick, and great acceleration without a super small front ring. I run 36t x 11-40t and it is perfect for all I do. Would love a pavement bike with 26 x 2.3 smooth tires.
Nice build and video. I'm a big fan of 26ers for their durability and low cost. I have a drop-bar conversion Habanero Ti 26er running Tiagra 9 speed 1x and a customer Rodriguez steel friction shifting 2x9 running 26ers. Easy to work on a go-anywhere bikes.
Awesome build Russ! You are exactly right about the rear brake housing exit. A handful of companies build their frames this way to be optimized for hydraulic brakes. Nonetheless as a bike mechanic, I've seen many people run cable discs with this type of chain stay routing the same way you did. Everything looked perfect, great job!
Nice work Russ! And that looks like an utterly sweet bike. As for 26”… I still have a 26er on the fleet, but as a Very Tall Man, since discovering the big 29, a ride on the smaller bike just feels like I’m on skateboard wheels and I really feel the hits from ruts and roots. Each to their own, enjoy the bike!
Being a shorter guy myself, I love 26ers and find myself often drawn to 90s MTB dropbar conversions for that reason. This seems like an awesome build. TI is a pretty neat material for bikes, esp. smaller frames. I have a Why? R+ and I feel like I can feel the spring that you always hear proponents of steel mention, but that I've never really experienced in steel - I think b/c the tubes are all so short. Congrats on wicked looking machine!
Love the build! Bought the posideon redwood based on your recommendation last year and the micro advent group set is perfect for riding around. I am running a 34t up front and find it perfect w the 11-48
What a sweet ride, and I concur that Ti fork is a looker and super practical. May you have many interesting adventures together.
Congratulations on your new dream bike Mr Russ! I'm looking forward to seeing more of it in future videos. I've taken note of the things that were a little spendy and the things that were a bit more budget, well done.
Congratulations on the new bike, it is a beauty.
Since you asked, I am currently in love with 700c/29 wheels, they just roll so good and you just can't beat the roll over. Also I prefer straight bars but drop bars have their place in any good stable so I will always have one. That said, I want "brifters".
Cables? internal sucks to work on but damn those bikes that completely hide every hint of a cable are the coolest looking ever to my eyes and I hope to someday own one.
Love a new bike build! I am going back to friction shifting for the Gorilla Monsoon I picked up today. Using dc ene wing shifters… these are Russ’ fault! Showing us fun stuff to put on our bikes 😆 As for the wheels 26/650b/700c - seems to me that there are now good tires available on all options now so you can actually run the right wheels for the frame size depending on your height/inseam.
Awesome review and bike, thanks Russ!! I think if manufacturers make 26" to the same tubeless standards as 650B, we'll have an MTB wheelset for our gravel bikes. What a dream!
Finally decided to order up one of the Twisted T-Racks while watching this and they're sold out! I feel like that has to be thanks to your review. Good on ya for showcasing some of the small makers out there!
I love bar end friction shifters. The flexibility is reason enough and I actually don’t shift constantly as I am not “cadence sensitive” anyway. Nice bike….good review. Enjoy !
My wife and I both have the Bearclaw Thunderhawk because of your original video. We love them. Funny both of ours have external cabling. Too bad they didn't have an OG frame for you. Thanks for all that you do.
I've been rocking a Surly Troll for a long time with steel frame and 26 inch wheels. It does the job and can fit road touring tyres all the way to 26x3 plus wheels for some offroad fun! My 29er can roll over baby heads a bit easier, sure, but I also have to run a much smaller seat pack.
Super stoked! Great video Russ and thanks for sharing your new Bearclaw, looks great.
Huge fan of your channel, and of this amazing bike:) I got one last year and it's been absolute dream. I 'think' I'd found it before you reviewed it in 2020 (not sure) but I know you helped push me toward the purchase with your detailed and balance review. I couldn't be happier. You should have seen the smile on my face when i clicked on this video and realized you got one. Happy for you dude. Supple side down!
You made a video recently showing that you you replaced all your 1x bikes with 2x. I guess this bike no longer has a single chainring. Exceptional bike.
I used to dig the internal routing on frames until I got my Twin Six Rando with external routing and I love it. Looks super clean too. Unless the bike is a carbon frame with specific channels for cables to go through external routing is the better solution.
Going into my 3rd year with the Thunderhawk and couldn't be happier! I have it paired with a Lauf suspension fork and wireless shifting which helps tremendously during all day rides on gravel. Mine was pre-internal routing and I would agree with your opinion, especially with regard to the brake routing exit in the rear chain stays.
Really nice build. The Thunderhawk was one of my finalists for a gravel bike but I went with a Co-motion Klatch. I do have a couple of Co-motion's and they are some pretty sweet rides.
I use electrical wire connectors just cut the cable at the brake lever or shifter. Then crimp the cable's together you can even use the wire crimper to roll the outside corners so they slide across lip better. I like your titanium bicycle and really can care less on how a younger generation has to abbreviate everything they can get away with. I ride a extra large masi with a four inch handlebar riser my bar end shifters did not need tandem cable's when I had drop bars on it. I was surprised that you needed them. Thanks for the video your doing great!!
Sweet ride. Love the look of a Ti frame. Never have to worry about nicks and scratches In paint or clear coat ever. Fun component and wheel choice. Thanks for the video.
Russ, I really enjoy this one. Spend money where you can, and save where you can. Nice build!
The bar end shifter is GENIUS, loved it and I came to that solution on my current rig as well, after trying out pretty much everything (R7000, Rival 1, Tiagra 3x, etc). I also agree on the brake cable routing, it was not cleverly executed and I've seen better in there. Loved the 26" wheels, although a 27.5 x 2.2/2.3 would do the trick as well (with the obvious weight penalty). Overall I really dig it! Keep it up Russ
You and your channel made me look at bikes other than road or mtb… I now have a pashley roadster and a renewed passion for cycling!
This is one of the most beautiful bikes I've ever seen - and I've seen a lot of bikes by now =)
Ding ding ding...you nailed it for me with the brakes and the internal routing. The issue there is that the internal routing is designed to be smooth with hydraulic brakes and for whatever reason these mechanical brakes align the cable on the other side of the brake. And it's not just the Yokozuna and Juintech (which are the same) it's also the TRP HY/RD. The cable stop is outboard of the disc where on hydraulic brakes the hose is inboard and on a brake like the TRP Spyre it is inline. As you noted it results in that crappy cable orientation which loves to pull on the brake caliper in a twisting motion and you get brake rub. Same issue with internally routed forks as well. Such a bummer as I was going to update my partner's Specialized Ruby to these brakes but they just don't work well with internal routing. I wish they would update the brake design to be equivalent to what's pretty much an industry standard. But as you said...external routing also solves the issue.
Yeah, just like the hole for the rear derailleur @10:50, they could put it in the middle-top of the non-drive chainstay, which would work for routing any of the brakes you mentioned - inboard, inline, or outboard. So frustrating.
Thanks for this really helpful explanation John..
Nice. You would make a good investor. You consider your position, make a plan and execute. You know exactly why you do what you do. You are not interested in why others may do things differently. This is actual confidence. Very good brother...
What a beautiful bike, Russ! 😍 It looks like a terrific build too, especially as it does what you want. You get all the thumbs up at this household. 👍👍👍👍
As for the internal routing, you know Park makes a tool for that, although I'm surprised it isn't sleeved.
I've been saving up to buy a Thunderhawk as well, I think you spent money on the things that matter the most! Sick build. I'm definitely as nit picky about cable routing as well and hope they change that rear brake routing soon. I would've rather had external routing....
I never knew you painted! I have to say I think your paintings are really good!
Nice bike Russ, congratulations! I got lucky enough to score a used Ti road bike a few years back and love the ride quality. I'm also a big fan of the Advent drivetrain, bang for the buck it is the best deal going. Enjoy it!
I knew it was going to be a bearclaw before I clicked the full video. You could tell you were loving on that bike in prior videos.
Would love to see a review on the titanium fork. At that price point ($650+) it's not an easy decision. Curious if you considered Lynskey, noticed you didn't even mention them. Yet mentioned Mouts (which is even more expensive than Bearclaw). External and internal routing options (oh and the chain stay slot is on the top for internal).
Welcome to the world of Ti. It's kinda a sickness. I really dig the simple build. I have the Bearclaw fork on my Lynskey gravel bike. Jason at Bearclaw was super cool to me when I ordered it two years ago. I like it and look forward to your thoughts.
As to that tricky brake housing - have you tried running the housing under the chainstay and around the bottom to the outside? The added length may help reduce the angle and since the brake cable stop is set toward the outside maybe it will help. Just an idea. I hope that makes sense.
That’s a good idea. May try that.
Nice looking bike and very functional build!
Please forgive me, but watching you riding from the side it looks really like a 90th MTB with a ridgit fork, but with a drop bar. ;-) I couldn't resist...
Due to the small wheels and the long stem it looks too small for your size and you could hit the front tire with your toes.
I'd prefer a shorter stem (-3cm) and a frame with a longer reach (+3cm) to have a more stable ride especially going down hill.
I recently moved from a 26" fully mtb plus a 26" hardtail to a 29" trailbike and I'll never look back. The ride is so much smoother.
If I'd buy an adventure or gravel bike I'd chose 29" wheels 7 days a week. With continental race king tires there's not much rolling resistance.
But no matter what, keep riding and have fun!
I did a mullet with a 34t. I worked ok for climbing, but I would spin out on the flats. I went back to a 2x setup and that was way better for climbing, but I should have done a 36t or bigger for the big ring. Fantastic range.
I hear having a cassette starting at the 10t could be help a bit.
My gravel grinder CAAD X came with TRP mechanical disc brakes . . . which sucked! A couple of weeks ago I replaced them with TRP cable actuated hydraulic brakes. The front brake was a lot better, not so the rear, so I ordered. per YT research, noncompression housing. The CAAD X also has internal routing (downtube) to the rear caliper. however, it is not internally routed through the chain stay which should make things a lot easier. Although I have replaced internal cables/housings before, I never realized the nc housing might be more difficult to route. Anyway, congrats on the the new bike and regards to you both.
I think I feel the same way about the Towmak as you did the Thunderhawk. It's always there in the back of my mind saying "you'll buy me one day".
Nice bike. I've always wanted a titanium bike. I raced a Merlin once in a mountain bike race in 1987, which I borrowed from the then national champion, Andy Tout. It felt like what a ride should feel like.
But I've never had enough money for an all ti machine. Now it doesn't matter. Older, slower, time to stop deluding myself. I have enough bikes for cryin out loud.
I really like that you have the bar con friction shifter on the bars.
I've never owned a bike with the gear shifters and brake levers combined. They don't put tuners on guitar pegs.
They don't sell fish hooks with worms already on them. You have to learn a skill or two. And yes, you have all the time in the world to make your shifts. I have a downtube mounted friction single shift lever on my vintage Panasonic, set up as seven speed tourer. I'm recommending that riders find good old steel ten speed handlebars and bend them into randonneurs shape. It's easy and makes a whole new thing that's so cool to use.
Great bike, I have an older Thunderhawk with external routing. I found that the derailleur hangar is a bit stiff and has a tendency to snap quite easily. Otherwise very happy with the frameset! Smooth and lightweight.
That is a sweet bike you have there and that 26 inch makes a lot of sense for it. I am currently using 27,5 X 2,8 inch tires in my touring bike. On my gravel bike I have 700c and 35mm. I am quite tall, and for me those are two pretty nice tires with very different feelings and use cases. I rarely want anything in between them. I notice that those bigger wheels that I have are a LOT less sturdy than a smaller wheel would be and that can cause spoke losses but it is rather rare as long as the tensions are kept in check.
Awesome you joined the ti party! Love my Lynskey GR300. I only dayride, no heavy touring gear, so no need for a burly ti fork. I am looking at the Lauf Grit fork for the local washboard stuff that jars my fillings loose but man that fork is expensive.
Hey there. I’m looking at buying a used gr 260 from a friend. Super good deal. The frame is larger than I’m used to but it seems to fit me pretty well. Surprisingly. I’m borrowing it for a couple of weeks for some longer rides.
I may put 650b wheels on it just to drop the center if gravity down a bit.
Any thoughts on this?
@@SavGaEckmann I’ve passed on a lot of bikes that were too large for me these days. Learned from experience that fit is everything and a bike that doesn’t fit is uncomfortable and doesn’t get ridden. Only changes I’d rely on are ones I can make to the cockpit. Standover height is probably my most important measurement as I’m a novice rider so I have to step down quite a bit. My GR300 is Small but according to Lynskey’s site, I should be on a Medium. Glad I chose the Small.
@@jp93309
Thank you. Stand over height isn’t a problem. I can stay in flat-footed over it with just a smidge of wiggle room under the junk. Much like Russ describes with his bear claw and one of these videos.
And the reach is almost identical to my favorite ole bike. That’s the one my wife is riding now LOL.
Do you mind me asking what your dimensions are? I am 5’6”with a 30 inch inseam.
Very cool ride. Great to start with a superb frame and take it where you want. Happy riding!
This bike is so much of a fun nice modern and simple and proven combo that I love it.
Bar end shifters FTW! If people don't think they can get the hand of friction (even though it is super easy) you can go with indexed shifters. Also, you can go with Gevenalle if you want to shift from the brake hoods.
Friction = bulletproof
Congratulations on the new bike! Love this video. Can’t wait to hear about the bag stabilizer.
Wow I like bikes but never actually had like to know about in detail. In terms of the parts and sizes ...lol I guess theres alot in this world that we have to open up to learning and growing to love .Goodluck Russ with your bike nd I'm sure every ride will be a new adventure
Very sweet build! You speced out that lovely frame with nice parts.
Nice one! Love the bar tape colour.
Love that setup, I have a very similar build with some oddball pieces too. I'm full ti 650b clears big MTB tires and is so so so smooth!
I have a lynskey titanium and I am very happy with it.
Like you, Russ, I often tinker with my bikes and swap components around. After cutting the rear brake hose and replacing the olive several times on my ti gravel bike, I recently temporarily tie wrapped the hose externally whilst trying some alt bars; funny thing is, until I watched this video I had forgotten I’d done so. I am also convinced that a full length gear cable housing offers better shifting than internal .
As I recall Bearclaw previously assured us that external cable routing was best; presumably they bowed to the pressure of fashion, which is understandable, but a shame.
What a beautiful bike! Congrats. I love that you're running 26 in on this one. I've been running a set of the Humptulips for a bit now (51mm wide on Velocity Cliffhangers) and I like them a lot. Could 26 be poised for a comeback? Only time will tell,lol.
Really interesting and the bike looks fabulous. Just bought a Fairlight Secan Reynolds 853, agree with you totally about cabling the Secan is external and I love the fact its so easy to work on, running a similar 1X setup with hydraulic disks so I’m really hoping its just the one cable I have to look after! Ride safe and enjoy your bike.
I love my Thunderhawk. Never regret spending that $$. Like your build.
10sp AdventX with barcon shifter is a great drivetrain choice. I've got Advent on 4 of the bikes in my stable. The performance is great and the value is incredible. I'm a fan of barcon shifters too and like running the long tandem cable under the grip tape too.
What a beautiful bike! Congratulations and enjoy!!
Funny with my mtb to gravel conversion I squeezed some 700 x 38 Vittoria Terreno and it actually made the bike feel faster than the 26 inch it had prior.
Nice bike! I've just put a deposit on a custom road titanium frame from Waltly here in China, sinceI just love the look of titanium and still don't feel overly comfortable with the idea of a full carbon frame. Ti just looks so much cooler and classier than carbon. I am in the process of getting my frame designed (I'm going with internal routing for a cleaner look) and will definitely take your comment about the position of the rear brake cable housing exit hole in mind and get the hole on the top of the chain stay and a bit further back from the caliper mount, since I too will be using cable actuated hydraulic brakes with compressionless housing.
Bar end shifters is the way. Something intuitive about using your palm to shift while holding on the drop.
Wow. Very nice bike. Love it. Titanium is my dream. And 26” is so cool. Bars ends - would prefer indexed for 10 speed. I struggle with friction past 7/8 speed. I also prefer routing the cable without the big loop. Much neater and I’ve never had a problem with cable binding. Hydro mechanical brakes - for me one or the other. Prefer the simplicity of full cable but the feel of full hydro has always been the game changer. Internally routed. I feel your angst. Cheers.
Could listen to you all day good commentary
I had the opposite with my rear brake when using TRP Spyre calipers.
My rear brake cable runs down the outside of the seat stay & trying to bend compressionless cable was putting more strain on the fittings than I was happy with so I used a "V" brake noodle to make the bends to the caliper.
Then I changed to Juin Tech GT's, now the cable has a gentle curve into the caliper :)
Very very cool build I probably would have put it together almost exactly the same especially with the friction shifting after trying it for the summer I am a full convert!!
Absolutely love this build. The components are nice where it actually matters, and humble where it doesn't. Why spend $200 for a brake lever? I also agree that all-metal is the way to go. It just makes sense for a bike that will be able to carry you and your stuff for decades to come. Thank you for being you, Russ.
P.S. You could just zip tie the cables to the outside of the frame. That'll really annoy the haters!
Fun bike & good match for your riding it seems. Congrats! Regarding the internal routing - from conversations with a couple expert mechanics while doing my own bike search - the ease of routing is a design issue. A top exit, which may require tubing shape change, would make it easier. The mechanics I spoke with also stated that how the internal guides are set up can make a huge difference. Definitely one area where I might pay to have someone else do the work to save on swearing.
Loved my titanium Sage, love my current stainless Moth Attack... light and long-lasting, great choice with your new build/machine!
i dig this rig! 26" is not dead
This channel makes me wish I had more dirt terrain near by. 😞
If riding the bike makes you smile and makes the day great, then the components are right.
There's a reason I've kept my Soma Analog MTB w/ 26inch wheels around. It's a fun bike to ride and it was what I rode the GDMBR on. Marketing convinced folks that 26ers were incapable of riding rough, chonky terrain when in reality they're a nimble tire for tight trail riding and gravel roads.
Those Soma Analog frames look beautiful. Good to hear you did the GDMBR on one. What components did you run?
@@chuckincakes9498 Shimano 2x9 xt drivetrain. avid mech'l disc brakes, rockshox reba sl. I'm debating as to whether or not i upgrade to a 1x11 drivetrain.
I own a Thunderhawk with external cable routing. And have sometimes wish I had the internal routing only because it looks so clean. But this is a reminder that I'm all good with external routing on my Thunderhawk. Keep doing what you do brother. I'm always looking forward to new content from you. If you're ever down this way (Tucson), reach out and let's ride. You even have a place to crash to save yourself a few dollars.🌵🏜️🚲
Russ - I purchased the Bearclaw Beaux Jaxon based partially on your review of that bike. I was surprised when it showed up with internal routing. Apparently that is new for bearclaw and not reflected on their website. Had the same experience as you. Some of the “coat hangers” worked and some didn’t. Was saved by the park tool internal routing kit which also allowed me fish a fragment of the broken routing wire out of the frame. Not easy but it could have been worse. Also no ports for a dropper so that would have to be zip tied to the frame with an external trigger or wireless. I’m running grx 1x11 with a 36 tooth chain ring and 11-42. Seems to work pretty good for my applications. Need to find some lighter wide tires. First bike I’ve ever build so lots of learnings. Happy riding.
And I also found running the th rear brake line to be the most difficult. If hydraulic was easier, cables must have been damned hard.
That is a great looking bike, happy trails.👍
"Basically luck" been there done that! Great bike!!!
With you 100% against internal routing! Ultimately it equates to a world of headaches just for aesthetics - booooo!
Great new bike with a very interesting set up. Can't say I'd ever go back to 26" wheels but then I ride large to XL frames.
Long Live Party Pace!
Beautiful bike. I could sit in the garage and stare at it with a beer on hand. Also, nothing wrong with bar end shifters. I prefer them to brifters any day of the week. Lastly, Microsoft Advent Is a killer groupset.
Gorgeous bike, and the friction shifter is a good choice for us non-racey types.
Only thing it “needs” is eeWings crankset…
I like those handlebars. Appears to have a similar outward tilt to the Salsa Woodchippers/Cowchippers I have on a couple of bikes, but the hooks are shallow and don't stick out as far as the Woodchippers do. I'll have to look and see if you've already published a review on those.
Same here do you know what model it is ?
@@Jean-jk4zv Redshift Kitchen Sink bars. Russ did an unboxing a few months back and appears to be doing a long term test with them on the Jamis Venture now.
@RollinRat Interestingly, I'm primarily a hood rider and what I like about dirt drops is the outward tilt of the brake levers. It is just a natural and comfortable position for me. About 24-25° seems perfect. I tried some bars with a much greater tilt a few years ago, but it was too much for my liking.
@RollinRat glad to here you like the Venturemax. I just purchased the 56cm version but also considered the Kitchen Sink bar. Decided I wanted a wider bar for bikepacking.
@RollinRat Yes, all good reminders, but for normal riding, I find it comfortable. And yes, my screenname is based off of Calvin's Spaceman Spiff persona.
Love, love, love. Super bike. Nice one Russ
Another great video. I’m running 1x GRX on my drop br Karate Monkey (with XT cranks). I also run 36T front ring with an 11-46 rear cassette. Like you say slightly under geared but I only rarely spin out and I like being able to climb very steep technical stuff 👍
love the 26 cant wait to hear more about what you think about those tires. I havent pulled the trigger on them yet but I really want to pair them with something super wide like the velocity dually. I think the friction shifters are more than adequate, the micro-shifts aren't even that cheap they're like 50-60 bucks but the big thing is they make any build look super clean. Modern shifters work great I guess but they tend to be bulky unlike a good thumb-shifter which is lowkey, simple and compact.
Russ, Park tool makes a really useful tool for running internal routing. Its uses a magnet, not easy but way easier than other ways. But you are correct, they should have run that exit hole on the non drive chainstay closer to the BB shell, but its easy to be an armchair frame builder so hey I'd say they did a pretty nice job. That looks like a very stiff fork.
Nice frame respect the build. Love the 26”