Nate’s Super-commuter
Nate’s build is the latest interpretation of my winter bike theme. But heavily customised for Nate’s unique bicycle!
We start with the ever-reliable Alfine 8spd hub, in it’s Di2 guise. To fit a Gates belt-drive sprocket with the Di2 motor unit, the cog has to be offset to the inside. So then to allow for a straight beltline whilst providing for larger tires, the whole rear-end is offset 7mm to the driveside. A custom made dropout includes a split in the chainstay for belt installation. The belt is tensioned by way of an eccentric bottom bracket in the PF30 shell.
Careful shaping of the asymmetric chainstays provides generous clearance for 35mm tires, along with room for the full coverage fenders. At the front there is a custom steel fork with Son SL thru-axle dropouts. These stainless dropouts allow the dynamo hub to connect without needing wires or plugs. The dyno then powers the front lamp, mounted on the fork crown, the rear light mounted on the saddle, and the USB charger mounted above the stem.
The hub can be shifted from either hand at the bars, or by the uniquely positioned satellite shifter mounted under the saddle (for shifting whilst riding no hands!).
Nate liked the Tubus rack, but wanted a clean connection method, so I made a custom curved stay that matches the curvature of the fender to join it to the seatstay.
The paint was applied by Colorworks, including the matching Silca frame pump.
Two years in as my daily driver and it’s a beaut. A joy to ride every day!
Wonderful to hear Nate, thanks for sharing!