If you have watched a video or two of Zach Gallardo, you’d probably heard him mention Reynolds tubing. I wanted to see for myself what the hype is about, so I went and got the U1 Unbreakable frame from Pizz. Between its classic lugged fork and tracklocross geometry, I figured I’d go for a neo-retro look. I looked for Mash steel builds online for inspiration. The idea was to have a black centerpiece and silver appendices. Silver seat post and handlebar with black stem and grips to add contrast.
Triple silver circles, say that 10 times fast, is in effect at the drivetrain. Silver hubs, black cog, silver chainring, black cranks linked together by the ever-reliable Izumi Jet black, staying true to the black/silver motif. While a Sugino crank arm would have been the popular choice, the Sram Omnium with Wellgo pedal cleats puts the “neo” in this neo-retro styling.
Steel frames are already comfortable but as a daily driver I wanted more. The frame can fit up to 45c tires, but I went and got 32s to balance comfort and speed. Donnelly and Brooks C17 Specials do a remarkable job in soaking up bumps and the matching colors are just cherry on top.
“Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more away.” - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Photos by Eds Rivera @wherethecityfades
Frameset: Pizz U1 Unbreakable sz50 Rims: H Plus Son AT 700c
Cranks/BB: Sram Omnium 165mm/GXP
Chainring: Sugino Zen NJS 46T (unbranded silver bolts)
Pedals: Wellgo spd cleats Saddle: Brooks C17 Special Seatpost: Unbranded
to add, but when there is nothing left to take
Stem: The Project CNC 100mm Bars: Nitto Shred (cut)
Grips: Ardently waffle Headset: FSA