11/22/2005

Gate Slammer Dual Slalom

Here is a screen image of a custom '06 Gate Slammer dual slalom frame design. For 2006, the Gate Slammer receives some fine tuning of the front end geometry to accommodate the new Fox 36 RC2 fork. One of these frames is in progress so stay tuned for more updates as they become available.

11/10/2005

Reynolds 953 - Carbon Fiber Alternative?

Reynolds recently introduced a new, high strength stainless steel in conjunction with Carpenter Alloys - it's called 953. HTo compete with titanium and carbon fiber, 953 may be the answer...here is a quote from Reynolds:

"Benefits: Ultra strong steel, with the advantage of a stainless finish for maximum weight reduction from very thin walls. And the legendary ride of steel."

I just placed my first order - expensive - and it should arrive in February '06. Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available from Reynolds.

11/06/2005

2006 APEX Hardtail (3 of 3)

The rear dropouts have been weight reduced for 2006 - note the extra pocketing on the non-drive side. The rear hanger is replaceable via (1) chainring bolt. To improve manufacturing time, vent holes for welding are machined right into the dropout.

2006 APEX Aluminum (2 of 3)

Both chainstays and seatstays use the same rectangular tubing (3/4" wide x 1" tall) for superior rear wheel tracking. The upper and lower yokes are hollowed out for weight savings.....they are also profiled radially on each side to add torsional compliance while riding.

2006 APEX Aluminum (1 of 3)

Looking for a bike that is light and nimble? Customers have told me that this frame rides like a steel bike with the weight of an aluminum bike - sweet! Here is a screen capture of the 2006 APEX aluminum hardtail - the frame is made from Easton 7005 Ultralite tubing and the rear triangle has custom CNC machined dropouts and yokes. Cabe routing is disc-specific.

Baby Blue APEX (3 of 3)

Salsa dropouts come standard and disc tab is reinforced between the chainstay and seatstay. Stay tuned for more photos of the fully-built frame.

Baby Blue APEX (2 of 3)

Rear triangle has wishbone seatstays for improved tracking and handling precision. No rear brake bosses on this baby - disc only! Cable routing is located under the top tube for a clean look.

Baby Blue APEX (1 of 3)

Here is s picture of Carl's brand new APEX steel hardtail. This frame is built with a unique combination of Reynolds 853, Columbus Zona and Tange Prestige tubing. Geometry is setup for Manitou's new R7 fork with 100mm travel.

11/04/2005

True Temper S3 Hardtail in Downieville


Here is a photo of Icy's Magic Racer hardtail. Each tube was hand picked for his riding style - FAST - and physical dimensions. The front triangle consists of True Temper S3 (Super Strong Steel) tubing, chainstays are Tange Prestige and wishbone seatstays are Dedacciai. Final frame weight ~3.6 lbs -----unbelievable for all steel construction! Laser blue powdercoat by Sycip guarantees a nearly flawless finish.