asin
01-31-2005, 11:52 AM
Well I finally built up my new Knolly V-Tach frame. After nearly two months of debate, pondering, research and incessant questions (thanks Noel) I've got the bike built up and it's un - be - lievable.
First off, it was far and away the easiest build I've ever done. I've had the pleasure and the pain of building up some of the so-called "best handbuilts" ever and not one of them has come close to this level of quality. No files, no drills, no dremels or files. The parts slid into place as if they were pulled there by magnets. This speaks volumes to the quality of construction, high tolerances and exquisite design. My Turner was the only bike that ever came close to this.
I built it up with the classic Knolly kit: SRAM X9, 321/Hugi wheels, Diabolus and E13 everything. I rounded out the package with Saint brakes and a 2001 Monster T. Wicked.
After one ride I can only say that I'm very impressed. It's funny that we always compare bikes by scrutinizing details like geometry, hype, colour, etc. But what really sets great bikes apart is when they are so much more than these things. Turner, Intense, Seven, Independent Fabrication... companies like this build experience and some type of magic into the bikes. And people who know... know how good it is. These bikes build better, fix better, ride better. They are better. And the VTach easily falls into this level of pedigree.
I think the Monster T might be a little overkill these days but we'll see if one of the new lighter forks will perform as well. I think a more refined fork is in order for a more refined bike....
http://www.alexsin.ca/IMG_1388COMP.jpg
My first ride was a quick jaunt up Fromme to seat all the parts, stretch cables, etc. And I wasn't disappointed. This bike pedals! The 5th is working so well that I cranked up in a 36T with no problem. This bike definitely wants to be ridden hard but with precision. This build has much lighter wheels than my last bike and it's also a lot more stable. There is definitely a curve involved for me to find the sweet spot. But I got glimpses of it yesterday and I can't wait. This is the right tool for taking everything to the next level. Can't wait for Whistler!!
First off, it was far and away the easiest build I've ever done. I've had the pleasure and the pain of building up some of the so-called "best handbuilts" ever and not one of them has come close to this level of quality. No files, no drills, no dremels or files. The parts slid into place as if they were pulled there by magnets. This speaks volumes to the quality of construction, high tolerances and exquisite design. My Turner was the only bike that ever came close to this.
I built it up with the classic Knolly kit: SRAM X9, 321/Hugi wheels, Diabolus and E13 everything. I rounded out the package with Saint brakes and a 2001 Monster T. Wicked.
After one ride I can only say that I'm very impressed. It's funny that we always compare bikes by scrutinizing details like geometry, hype, colour, etc. But what really sets great bikes apart is when they are so much more than these things. Turner, Intense, Seven, Independent Fabrication... companies like this build experience and some type of magic into the bikes. And people who know... know how good it is. These bikes build better, fix better, ride better. They are better. And the VTach easily falls into this level of pedigree.
I think the Monster T might be a little overkill these days but we'll see if one of the new lighter forks will perform as well. I think a more refined fork is in order for a more refined bike....
http://www.alexsin.ca/IMG_1388COMP.jpg
My first ride was a quick jaunt up Fromme to seat all the parts, stretch cables, etc. And I wasn't disappointed. This bike pedals! The 5th is working so well that I cranked up in a 36T with no problem. This bike definitely wants to be ridden hard but with precision. This build has much lighter wheels than my last bike and it's also a lot more stable. There is definitely a curve involved for me to find the sweet spot. But I got glimpses of it yesterday and I can't wait. This is the right tool for taking everything to the next level. Can't wait for Whistler!!