A new frame isn’t a bad idea, if they’re providing all the components and doing the build. If that were the case (which I’ll confirm) y’all have a recommendation? Consider the following:
I’m 5’1 and fat, which are the 2 biggest limiting factors (height and weight.)
What’s the timeline like for this? I don’t want to get too much into analysis spiral, but if I were building up your bike starting from a new frame would certainly be my preference.
@igor or @EndpointBraden have anything in the stables?
Or maybe a Black Mountain Cycles monstercross disc.
Or the new Surly LHT, but only if they give you a deal on it.
I often wish I had more gears for climbing, especially when I’m loaded for camping.
The one I currently have that fits is a 650b x 42.
Timeline is TBD. The original plan was to film sometime in August, but we’re talking with the film makers tomorrow about COVID. I’ll have a better idea tomorrow.
Not sure about your road/off-road and flat-bar/drop-bar preferences, but the Jamis Renegade and Norco Search XR are the two off-the-shelf gravel bikes that come in tiny sizes (that aren’t horrible compromises) that I know of. They’re both designed around 650b x 40ish. The Norco specs state that it can also fit 26x2.1".
only saying this because its heavily on my mind right now, be sure to ask for details on how they plan to approach filming in pandemic. productions need to come with proper, rigid, and open plans for maintaining cleanliness and space (microphones are my particular worry these days), but i’ve heard enough horror stories lately that not everyone is taking that responsibility, and you have an incredible amount of power and leverage as “the talent”. i think just bringing it up with make it happen if it isn’t already being considered.
This is awesome! I have no suggestions because I quite frankly don’t know shit about shimano but I am stoked for you. You’ve certainly worked hard enough to get the recognition.