Hugo's Boundless Kegety
It’s not unusual for one of my customers, who after riding their first build and seeing that it is good, inevitably come back for a second. There can be no higher compliment to a framebuilder, so when Hugo got in touch about getting a gravel bike, I knew I was doing right.
Hugo was one of the first customers I had, and back then gravel was just a whisper in peoples ears. Instead, Hugo opted for a road bike, but these days the allure of getting yours wheels dirty is too much. And who can blame him, gravel offers a level of freedom and exploration that road cycling can only hint at.
Seeming as Hugo already had a capable road machine, we decided that this build could be an unadulterated off-roader so clearly the Kegety was the way to go. From the off we specced the Lauf Grit SL as when it comes to increased compliance and grip, nothing comes close at this weight. It’s undoubtedly one of the best additions that can be made to a dedicated dirt muncher.
As you can probably tell Hugo is a tall guy, coming in at 6’4” we worked hard to get the right geometry to balance his higher centre of gravity and make a bike that could tackle seated climbs on loose surfaces. The longer wheelbase keeps everything planted, and the extended rear end prevents wheelies when going up hill, increasing traction and efficiency.
Another comfort increaser is the Brooks Cambium C13 saddle. A favourite with long-distance racers and off-roaders alike, the stretched rubber saddle has a hammock effect, absorbing bumps and knocks from rough terrain, a perfect compliment to the Lauf fork.
Seeming at this is an unashamed dirt grinder, the ULTRA-RAW finish was specced for increased durability and toughness. Likewise we specced the SRAM Force AXS wide group to take advantage of the efficient shifting from the electronic group, avoiding mechanical cables that can get hung up on mud and grit. The added bonus is with no cables, cleaning the frame is a breeze after those inevitable muddy rides.
It was a pleasure making this build even better each time I get a message from Hugo saying how much he loves it! There’s no better feeling.
Custom Quirk Cycles frameset
Columbus Zona and Life Tubing
Lauf Grit SL Fork
SRAM Force AXS Wide Groupset
Zipp Service Course SL XPLR Controls
Chris King Silver Headset and BB
Parcours Alta Wheelset
Photos by Nikoo Hamzavi