Open x Gravelstoke WIDE
Words and photos by Dave Malwitz
This being my first custom build experience, I wanted to synthesize a bike that combined clean aesthetics with modern gravel capabilities. When it came time to select the frame for the project it was an easy choice to go with the Open WI.DE. My riding style leans more towards adventure versus racing, so I liked the option to run 650b x 2.2” tires with room to spare, and the WIDE’s geometry is well suited to handle the technical terrain right outside my door in Carlsbad, California. The Yeti turquoise frame was promptly protected with help from Ride Wrap, and their Covered - Gravel Protection Kit.
Follow the head tube down to a carbon fork that was designed for adventure and handmade in Utah. The ENVE Adventure Fork provides the opportunity for additional mounting options, two Axle-To-Crown / Rake positions, and the possibility for internal dynamo routing down the road. On overnight bike-camping trips I like attaching bags to my fork mounts, keeping some of the weight low and forward to provide a more balanced ride feel. The fork was custom painted turquoise and white to match by Joe Bell in San Diego.
The drivetrain had to be AXS. SRAM AXS transformed the shifting experience for me, like when I first tried Rapidfire in 1998. For my WIDE mullet, I went with the SRAM X01 Eagle AXS RD / X01 cassette combo paired with the carbon Zayante cranks and 42t direct mount chainring from Praxis Works. For pedals, the WCS XC from Ritchey were installed as they withstand rock strikes better than any other I’ve tried.
The ENVE Gravel Handlebar and G27 wheels are transferred over from my previous bike, but the ENVE Road Carbon Stem with integrated K-Edge computer/accessory mount is new. Force eTap brake levers, black ENVE bar tape, and the Wahoo Roam round out the cockpit. For a saddle, I selected the Brooks C17 in Octane for its heirloom appeal while also offering a Vulcanised Natural Rubber construction for comfort and durability. The C17 is mounted to the new PRO Seatpost from Redshift, for my first dive into the ShockStop pool of gravel cush products. The new Gravelstoke emblem designed by Sims Kelly is featured on the rear stay.
The decision of which tires to mount was perhaps the most difficult. I wanted something that took advantage of the newfound clearance, while also rolling fast on asphalt and maintaining grip in loose-over-hard situations. The Rene Herse Umtanum Ridge 27.5 x 2.2 with Extralight casing was my choice. Special thanks to Tim at Lost Cyclery for completing the build, and SRAM for finally delivering the shifters, just in time for spring.
