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@.gaz.
I'm about to pull the trigger on a new frame from Winston at Varonha Frameworks.
The idea is to get rid of my current touring bike, which is also my commuter / beater, and get something I can use as a fast-ish winter road bike as well. I'm a fan of classic lugged frames so didn't want to get a mass-produced frame from Genesis, Ribble, etc etc.
The idea (to begin with anyway) is to put most of the stuff from the touring bike onto a new frame, then use parts bin / secondhand stuff as much as possible for the rest. This way I don't have to spend too much on new parts that will only attract thieves, and the build will already look old and worn out from the start, again good for deterring thieves.
Wherever possible I will prioritise parts that will help make it lighter whilst still being cheap or inconspicuous enough for a beater. So this is also a kind of very low-grade weight weenie project.
To begin with, I was looking at Bob Jackson's Audax Club but when I asked around on here I discovered that the smaller sizes have an unusual 76 degree seat tube angle that would need a 50mm offset seatpost to replicate my current riding position. Which is obviously ridiculous.
So I asked Winston for a quote and he has agreed to bring this in quickly and cheaply - mainly using tubes and bits he already has knocking around to save time and money.
Just a few details to finalise before he starts so this might be surprisingly quick for a custom job.