I’m a simple guy who likes simple things. No bells, no whistles. I had been looking for a steel, single speed specific, fat tyre dirt road bike to tackle remote, backcountry double track here in Southern Tasmania but was unable to find a bike suitably ‘Spartan’ to my taste.
I contacted Seth Rosko, a New York City frame-maker to discuss a custom build. We chewed on a few ideas and came up with a plan. We’d use Columbus steel, canti mounts (with Paul ‘Mini-Motos’ in mind), clearances for a 41c tyre, short rear stays, Surly horizontal drop-outs, plenty of standover height and a semi-compact geometry based loosely on one of my favourite bikes. Roll the clock forward twelve months and what we have is what you see above. A single speed dirt road bike.
The new whip is currently winging its way to me. Should have it in hand soon. Will post updates as I build up.
Geometry is road, loosely based on my Kona that I’ve flogged around the Southern Forests since '08. Not a fan of 'cross geometry for road riding (albeit rough dirt road riding).
Colour tape? Tried a rude pink bar tape on last night. Nah, whole show becomes waaaaaay to loud. Maybe that black tape with pink holes…
