Wabi Cycles: thoughts, opinions, experiences?

[Climb01742]

In looking for an off-the-shelf single speed, I came across Wabi Cycles. Kinda interesting. And prices are good. Anyone have one? Or any thoughts or opinions to share? Thanks.

[TimD]

Well, poking around on the web site I see no mention of the maximum tire size which can be used on the first two models.

Nor do I see any mention of head tube length - which is hard to understand given the claims of lots of fitting experience.

Bikes look nice, though, and the pricing is attractive.

[Climb01742]

Well, poking around on the web site I see no mention of the maximum tire size which can be used on the first two models.

Nor do I see any mention of head tube length - which is hard to understand given the claims of lots of fitting experience.

Bikes look nice, though, and the pricing is attractive.

Both very true, Tim. If I go any further, hopefully a phone call could answer those. I was just trying to find options beyond Surly and a geo that was more road than track. I do like their almost complete lack of logos; very clean.

Anyone have other ideas for bikes/builders to check out for off-the-shelf SS?

[AngryScientist]

i own and ride a LOT a Lightening SE. it's simply a fantastic bike for what i paid for it. you just cant get a bike made of Columbus Spirit tubing for less than what they are asking. the ride is dreamy. this is a case of it all being about the tubes on this bike. tight tight clearances though, a 23c tire is max for this thing.

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QodpCWIQiWs/UM_JuuWSDlI/AAAAAAAABAY/MMsAzNbbKXY/s640/IMG_1147.JPG

[AngryScientist]

one more showing rear tire clearance.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M92D4fOwWU4/UVI5ORcVZfI/AAAAAAAABJ8/fYoG-Ttp7Hc/s640/IMG_0726.JPG

[AngryScientist]

for other relatively inexpensive off the peg bikes, leader has some really nice stuff in a variety of materials now. so does cinelli.

http://images.cdn.bigcartel.com/bigcartel/product_images/88071395/max_h-1000+max_w-1000/Gazzetta-red-wm.jpg

http://bikelanechicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/722TS_HERITAGE_RED-652x434.jpg

[AngryScientist]

another nice option out there, victoire

http://www.victoire-cycles.com/images/galleries/frames/Versus_001/Versus001-10.jpg

[doomridesout]

I had the scandium Lightning, and I loved it. Stiff, responsive, pretty good geo, comfy, and a nice paint job. Welds looked pretty good to my untrained eye too. I really appreciate that Richard who runs Wabi just lays it out there that it's a road geometry. I could barely run a 25c tire on it, but that's my only real gripe. From what I understand, the Classic can fit a 32 and fenders, now. If I needed a nice single speed road bike I'd go right back and get one again. Strong recommendation.

[eippo1]

Got a Classic and built it up for a friend. He loves it and said the ride is fantastic. He uses it for early season training and for just effing around. Built it up with 25's and had plenty of clearance. I had a question for Richard and he was very helpful over the phone. Good stuff all around.

[mhespenheide]

I don't have one, but FixedGearGallery has reviewed a couple of them:
http://www.fixedgeargallery.com/framebuilders/wabi-scandium/
and
http://www.fixedgeargallery.com/framebuilders/wabi-special/index.htm
and
http://www.fixedgeargallery.com/framebuilders/wabi-classic/

[smashley]

I have owned my wabi for a little over a year now and I have to say its a great bike! I have the classic which is their lower end bike, but it is still stiff, super responsive and a good build. My main attraction was that it came in my size - the 42cm with 650c (I'm pretty tiny). With all that in mind I couldn't be more pleased with the product and Richard the owner is a really nice guy who will work with you if your looking for something custom!

[ergott]

Two of my friends have Wabis. They are extremely happy with them and from my cursory inspection, look well made. Their customer service is great. One bike was damaged in shipping and was remedied right away. Based on their experiences they seem like a great buy.

[bikenut]

I have the Classic and could not be more satisfied. A better value doesn't exist. Customer service is excellent.

[p nut]

Just FYI, I couldn't fit 32's in the Classic. Tire hit the top of the brakes. Side clearance was fine. Rear fit well. Just an issue with the front. I had 700x28 Gatorskins and fit great. I'd say 30 is max.

Other than that, great bike. Several centuries on it now and love the way it rides.

[oldpotatoe]

Both very true, Tim. If I go any further, hopefully a phone call could answer those. I was just trying to find options beyond Surly and a geo that was more road than track. I do like their almost complete lack of logos; very clean.

Anyone have other ideas for bikes/builders to check out for off-the-shelf SS?

Gunnar

http://gunnarbikes.com/site/bikes/street-dog/