2021 was a bit grim for drivetrains! The combination of a global component shortage and higher than average rainfall meant chains, cassettes, sprockets and pulleys were being consumed well past their use by date. “Have you got an XT Derailleur?” was the question sending a shudder down the spine bike shop staff around the nation. That got us thinking…
Q- What can be done?
A-Ditch the conventional drivetrain!
The Drivetrain
The Tor Abrade Synchro is a progression of the Abrade hardtail. An aggressive hardtail with modern geometry coupled with a low maintenance and robust Pinion C1.12 gearbox and Carbon Gates belt drive. Nothing to lubricate, no hanger to bend, no cage to twist and beautifully smooth shifting. The C1.12 also offers a massive 600% range which is significant when compared to a regular 12 speed Sram or Shimano drivetrain.
Frame
The TIG welded frame is constructed of a combination of Columbus Zona butted steel tubing and straight gauge 4130 steel tubing. Stainless steel horizontal dropouts allow for accurate belt tensioning and interchangeable sliding dropouts . Fully external cable and hose routing with the exception of the dropper post cable.
The finish on this frame is as impressive as the drivetrain. Mitch at 74Works created this tri-coloured scheme from H-series Cerakote ceramic coating. Cerakote is an ultra thin and extremely durable industrial coating typically used in automotive, aerospace and military applications. Perfect for mountain bikes! Unlike paint, Cerakote can’t be fully cured between colour changes so must be handled hot and completed in one go. Mitch is meticulous with his work and planned this one out in detail before picking up the gun. This stunning finish is the result.
Geometry
The geometry on this bike has been custom designed for a customer who rides a medium dual suspension trail bike. The smaller cockpit allowed for a BMX or DJ bike inspired straight line from the headtube to dropouts through the top tube and seat stays. This feature may require a seat tube brace on larger frames.
Specification
Fork- RockShox Lyric Ultimate, 150mm
Headset- Chris King i7, limited edition
Stem- Thomson X4, 40mm
Handlebars- Thompson Elite, 800mm
Shifter- Pinion Gripshift
Grips- Oury V2
Brakes- Shimano Saint
Rotors- Shimano, 160mm rear and 180mm front
Rims- DT Swiss EX 471, 29″
Hubs- DT Swiss 240
Tyres- Specialized Butcher 2.35″ front, Specialized 2.35″ Eliminator rear
Pedals- Shimano XTR Trail
Cranks- Pinion
Belt and Sprockets- Gates Carbon Drive, 32T front and 26T rear
Seatpost- One Up, 210mm
Saddle- Specialized
Ordering
We are now offering custom Abrade Synchro framesets including single colour powdercoated frame, Pinion C1.12 gearbox, Pinion gripshift, belt or chain drivetrain and cranks for $6000incGST. Drop us an email with any questions or to get the ball rolling on your custom build.
Images- Matt Rousu Photography https://www.mattrousuphotography.com/