Open Cycle recently released details of its second model, lightweight carbon gravel race bike. The U.P., short for ‘Unbeated Path’, is designed with ample tyre clearance and has the ability to be configured for use with 700c as well as 650b wheels.
Related reading: Defining the gravel race bike
In order to keep the chainstay length down to a very nimble 420mm and still have room for 55mm-wide tyres and clearance for a road compact crankset, Open founder Gerard Vroomen opted to drop the drive-side chainstay below the bottom bracket. Not only does lowering the drive-side chainstay improve tyres and chainring clearance, it also allows the chainstay to be wider, and thus stiffer.
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Vroomen designed the U.P. to traverse everything from tarmac to singletrack. As such, the U.P. has clearance for 700c x 40mm gravel tyres. If the terrain calls for even more cushion, the rider can opt for 650b wheels shod in 2.1in (55mm) tyres.
- 700c (29er) rim with 40mm cyclocross tyre =350mm
- 700c (29er) rim with 32mm cyclocross tyre =343mm
- 700c (29er) rim with 28mm road tyre =340mm
- 650b (27.5) rim with 2.1in mountain bike tyre =349mm
All of these tyre options have an outside diameter within 10mm of each other, meaning the change to geometry and handling should be minimal.
You can read more at BikeRadar.com
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