Gary’s FGC

This one called for some creativity with the limited edition Cane Creek EE gravel brakes needing to be fitted around full coverage fenders and a custom front rack. All whilst not impeding the Folding Gravel Concept design that allows the bike to pack into a checkable case for travel.

Gary was able to visit last year for a fitting session, and to discuss the build, then I set about with the design and fabrication. Rim brakes make good sense for a travel bike with no hydraulics or rotors to bend. And with the special EE brakes excellent braking performance is available with clearance for big tires. Equally, wireless shifting is a good choice with no cables to deal with when packing – however, unfortunately SRAM have discontinued their mechanical braking AXS shifters….. I was able to find a used pair on ebay, and Eric at Colorworks did a great job of making them look like new again.

The EE brakes require dedicated direct mount bosses, so a custom fork was required. This then also allowed for bosses for the front rack, and Gary opted to add the SON SL dropouts for a potential future addition of a dynamo hub. Whilst the rear dropouts had to be thru-axle in order to accommodate the UDH  and SRAM XPLR derailleur, we went with QR at the front for ease of removing the front wheel when required.

Gary supplied the front bag, so the rack could then be built around it, with a matching decaleur mounted under the stem. Here Fidlock magnetic latches were used to hold the bag securely but allow for easy release.

Carbon fiber fenders were sourced from the UK, and just fit under the brakes without modification – although they do limit how far the brakes open up for wheel removal.

Due to the handlebar height, this bike wouldn’t fit in the usual square travel case, but the bit of extra room provided by the Ritchey Breakaway rectangular case came to the rescue.

Colorworks did a fantastic job of matching the paint to the bag, and the complete bike (with fenders and rack) weighs in at 21.5lbs.

Rode 50+ mile loop with 3000 ft decent on Dead Indian Highway. 47 mph peak with no wobbles, I was scared but bike was awesome. Then breaking into 15 mph hairpins, EE brakes unlike any rim brake I have ever ridden. Seem to have the performance of the hydraulic disk brakes on my Lauf.  Maybe the 60mm stem is correct for me at my age, I’ve now ridden almost 100 miles and no numbness in hands. Maybe the handlebars too?

Gravel today with serious washboard,  front bag and rack breezed through.  This is the most comfortable and responsive bike I have owned.  I suspect it’s  really difficult to meet every riders needs and expectations with a custom build, as so much is subjective. I truly appreciate your willingness to expend the effort. I believe my bike reflects that commitment.  After riding the first 100 miles, I have doubts that I will ride my other bikes, mostly because this fit seems so perfect. The right combination of stiffness and suspension, noticeable when accelerating and climbing, but also when riding rough gravel and washboard.

Please know that your efforts and professionalism are appreciated.  I’m benefiting from your decades of experience as an elite cyclist and premier builder. Thank you.

• Tweet