CP: The Topcross (Low trail CX + touring)

Definition of TOPCROSS = a cross between a superior or purebred male and inferior female stock to improve the average quality of the progeny; also : the product of such a cross

Last year I rode sscx and geared touring on my Pompino:

It wasn't ideal for any of the two, so I wanted to build myself something that was able to do both (geometrywize and be fast converting from singlespeed to gears and panniers).

Current geo with 33c LIMUS tubulars and 50mm rake disc fork.

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Shortest wheelbase possible is 1010mm, in the above photos it's 1030mm. And with a trail around 45mm it is a pretty nimble cx bike.

I have built the frame with hidden eyelets for fenders and contemplate building a fork for it that accommodates lowrider panniers.

I am i doubt though, whether I should build myself a pair of 650b or a pair of 700c touring wheels.

I am thinking either:

or

To make switching between sscx mode and touring mode easy, I made a ø31.8 front mech clamp hold a 10sp trigger. this way I can ad a closed gear system, cogs, chain and wide narrow chainwheel with out having to change bartape or handlebars.

I am either going to build a rack myself or just buy a Blackburn Outpost front rack

and some panniers (front)...

nice work!
So you'll swap the forks for touring, am I getting you correctly? split crown race ftw.

My only real problem with this setup is I have a slight toe overlap (which was expected) with the current fork, and I am not sure if going from rake 50mm to 65mm will make it possible for me to run fenders + 35c or 47c with out fenders with out it being dangerous with a loaded front end. Time will tell I guess... Any ideas of improvements on the setup are welcome...?

Yes exactly. I run FSA Orbit MX on most my bikes so I have spare crownraces laying around ;-)

sweet. love it.

5mm shorter cranks might sort you out.

True Thue. That might be what is needed.

How low/heigh bb height (I am not talking bb drop) is acceptable on a touring bike?

700c x 47c / 65 mm rake

650b x 47c / 60 mm rake

The 650b x 47c / 60 mm rake geometry looks sound and jolly.

Disclaimer: I don't know much about riding with panniers, but you'll find yourself closer to the #donotlean regime when riding the panniers - should offer you less concern about low bb height.

That, is fucking awesome!

Looks so clean, love this bike!

I.. I just want to stroke it. so nice.
..can almost just taste the rust in that hedbadge.

you whore.

;-) Thank you.

Love the headbadge!

Helvete! Excellent work Hulsroy. Let me know if you ever want to sell it :)

I'm a big fan of the shifter work around - how much did you have to do to the mech clamp to make it work - do you have any more pictures, before/after?

Thanks!

Wauv, nice bike!


You can do this with a file I guess. No need for trimming off really. I just had access to a miller and had fun with it.

Truly stunning.
Dat headbadge doe.... Porn

really nice. and now some dirty action pics.

Thank you.

I have raced 4-5 times on it now + a lot of training sessions. A lot of fun it is.

@Hulsroy very nice - thanks.

Why splash £40 on Paul Thumbie mounts when you can just do this!