Resurrecting my long-lost WW account to ask a slightly un-weenie question. I am, put simply, bored of my current 2018 Emonda SLR6 Disc and want to swap it for something metallic. I'm planning to sell the frame and keep my current wheels/mechanical Ultegra hydraulic disc gruppo/finishing kit. Ideally I'd like:
- Not too heavy - obviously will be far more than my Trek but I don't want an 11kg bike.
- Fairly inexpensive - certaily sub 2000GBP as am a student and as always, money is not that freely available.
- Flat mount disc brake.
- Internal cabling.
- Thru Axles.
- Preferably steel (including stainless) or titanium.
- Traditional (flat top tube) looks - the Standert Triebwerk is pretty perfect.
- Relatively racy - I'll be keeping my Crockett do-it-all bike for off-road, winter, etc, so this will be my fast road bike. That said, if I can find an option that will take 650b*47mm tyres for gravel, be nimble enoigh for CX, and still be fast on the road I may consider swapping both bikes for one.
- Clearance for at least 28mm tyres.
- Ideally either a cool paintjob or a bare metal finish - doesn't have to be complicated, again see the Standert in that gorgeous metallic green.
- Threded BB - non-negotiable!
- Not a Planet X or any of their sister brands - I'm just really not a fan...
Currently I'm thinking the aformentioned Standert Triebwerk CR might be my best option, but their availibilty is erratic, I'd have to import it to the UK, and I've just missed the last 54cm frame in green >:(
I would also consider a custom frame - I've heard some mentions of XACD and Waltly as a "buy direct from the manufacturer" option? Are there any independent framebuilders who can build a steel frame for a relatively low cost?
SO. What else is out there that I've missed/simply not heard of?