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@launchpadboi
i've been bikepacking, as in riding out of london to pitch a camp to live action role play ultracycling, on retro mtbs so far. i can't really fault the 650b-converted klein pulse comp and stumpjumper for what they are, but i've also become increasingly aware that a modern, purpose-built bikepacking frame would open new horizons to the activity. an ample tyre clearance, a suitable modern geo, disc brakes voms in mouth, under downtube bottle bosses among other things have been flashing in the unconscious.
this nascent urge amalgamated with a growing fondness towards a certain wisconsin-based manufacturer led to restless facebook marketplace hunting and an anxious purchase was eventually made. the frame slipped nicely through customs with help of a @Thrasher -recommended shipping provider.
i had been looking at the undeniably refined bri'ish offering, namely fairlight secan and the bikepacking.com-endorsed cotic solarismax, but the unicorn value as an original divide rig before divide rigs were a thing had me turn to the said US made option. it's very close to the secan by specs, just without all the modern standards retrogrouches like me have less use for.
the planned riding would primarily be loaded 'dirt' touring, at least this is how i like to portray myself with the bike. in reality i'll probably be doing a lot of day gravel rides with a minimal bag setup, so it'd need to function as a gravel bike too. this and the fact that the frame alone gives a weight penalty over my old alu frames (1.5-1.7kg) is calling for weenie componentry. this would allow me to lift it over the gates and turnstiles without straining my hand too much too.
as for the build plan, the specific performance-focused purpose doesn't allow too much experimentation and rules out most of the stupid and fun stuff. colour-wise the only viable option would be silver parts to detach the aesthetic from the rental enduro bike territory. i never wanted a black frame, but there weren't any other colours available and then there was a black fork and it kind of made sense. tij's crust scheme then, can't go wrong with that.
the official moodboard below. should it prompt any questions i'm happy to elaborate.
frameset photo will be posted upon a successful reader guess of the brand and model is submitted. rules: the users who know can't partake. if there's no submissions i might cry.