Today is the holiday that back in the age of mechanical shifting and rim brakes we used to call “Columbus Day:”
However, since nobody rides steel bikes anymore it’s now called “Italian Heritage/Indigenous Peoples’ Day”–or at least that’s what it says on the school calendar, followed by the words “schools closed,” and since I kinda-sorta follow the school calendar when it comes to taking days off I’m kinda-sorta not posting today.
This is not to say that Columbus (tubing) has disappeared; in fact, there’s now a new Eddy Merckx (here comes that goddamn word again) gravel bike made out of Columbus Italian Heritage/Indigenous People’s titanium:
Here are the details on it:
Columbus claims the process and material used for its tubes leads to a strength of 200[kNm]/kg. When compared to standard titanium tubing, which is rated to 156[kNm]/kg, it means a 22% increase in ultimate tensile strength (UTS).
Whatever.
All I know is that a titanium Eddy Merckx gravel bike is going to be a guaranteed hit with the Just Buy A Rivendell Already demographic:
He really doesn’t look comfortable, does he? I need a neck and shoulder massage after just looking at that photo.
Anyway, since we’re talking about gravel, and since this is not a real post, I’ll just conversationally mention that while I’ve sold or donated the bulk of my friend’s cycling equipment there’s still some stuff left–including this brand-new, never-ridden Salsa Stormchaser:
This is a frame and fork:
Here’s the size:
As you know, I’ve made it a point to remain as ignorant about gravel bikes as possible:
As such, I can’t speak to the particulars, but if you’re looking for a new frame to go a-gravelin’ with please contact me. (I’ve also got parts for it if you need them, but one thing at a time.) Also, I’ve got boxes and a frame and fork is fairly easy to ship, so I’m happy to do that, unless of course you live someplace to which it’s difficult to send stuff.
I’ll make you a sweet deal, I promise.