The bike: Wabi Cycles Classic
The details:Â A hand-built Reynolds 725 frame with classic road geometry and hand-brazed Reynolds chromoly fork. Rolls on Jalco hoops laced to Joy Tech sealed hubs with double-butted, stainless spokes, all wrapped up in Kenda Koncept Lite 235gram 700×23 rubber. Flip-flop rear hub for fixed gear or single speed riding. Cockpit consists of Lead Tec bars with Velo cork tape, attached to a Kalloy stem riding above an FSA Orbit IS-2 sealed and integrated 1-1/8″ headset. Jagwire cables connect the Tektro ergonomic levers to Tektro R530 brakes. A Velo saddle comes mounted to a Kalloy post. Andel crankset and machined cog. Bring your own pedals.
Options: When ordering, you select your frame size and color, and then either go with the stock components for that size, or choose to spec the following items yourself – stem size from 80mm to 130mm, three drop bar sizes and two bullhorn options, three crank length options, six chainring options from 42-48, and six cog/three freewheel options. Not sure what size you need? Give them a call. Who else does all that? This flexibility in component sizing contributes to a better experience.
Of note: Should you want to go brake-less, remove the stainless cable clamps for a very clean look, as there are no stops or guides on this frame.
The sum of all those parts: One 18.4lb bike (that’s with two brakes) that rides as smooth as it looks. Smart design, clean welds, quality components.
Opinion: While many of the components may not exactly be household names to most cyclists, they’re OEM (frequently under another brand) on a lot of bikes out there. But getting beyond the lack of familiarity, they look great together. More importantly, they perform exceptionally well together. The road test portion of this review is next.
The porn:
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part II?
Chris, I kinda wanted to get some decent mileage in before I finish the review. And the weather hasn’t exactly cooperated. But it’s coming soon.
Nice looking bike, but I’m thinking I could wind up with a Schwinn Madison, Giant Bowery 72 for less from the local bike shop with pedals to boot. I’m really a Fuji loyalist and they have a classic track bike that is priced and compares very favorably with this as well.