Bike of the Week: A Triangular Fade Open UPPER

Do you love dirt as much as you love customized bikes? Well, then this week, we've got a treat for you: a light and versatile Open UPPER leveled up with a one of a kind paint job done by none other than the masters at Vélocolour. Keep on reading to check out this unique all-terrain steed.

The Frame

First and foremost, the Open Upper is a simply phenomenal bike. It's truly versatile, has impeccable handling on the road and dirt, and remains one of the lightest grave and all-road platforms out there. But what always takes them over the edge is when a rider decides to take personalization to the next level with a custom paint job. Enter Velocolour.  Every project with them is special. Of course, fades are hot these days, but VC, with their triangular halftone designs, owns the style. The blue to blue is gorgeous, but add in the orange interior of the wheel wells, and it's a vibrant, one of a kind machine. 

The Cockpit

The cockpit is all Zipp SC-SL. Durable and great-looking, it's one of our go-to choices for an alloy bar and stem. Capping off the carbon seatpost is a Most Lynx stub nosed saddle, an increasingly popular choice here at AC.

The Drivetrain

With its massive gear spread and rock-solid performance, Sram AXS is a tough 1x system to beat for any gravel bike. This bike utilized the Force Mullet combination. The all-black chain and cassette let the paint job stand out, while a Quarq power meter is tucked into the crankset for tracking wattage out on the trail.

The Wheels

The bike has a light yet versatile motif, so the Zipp 303 Firecrests made for an excellent choice. They're impressively light with a delightfully smooth ride, all while packing in the aero performance of a mid-depth wheel. Of course, it doesn't hurt that they match the Zipp cockpit perfectly. The tires of choice are the René Herse Steilacoom TC, an excellent 700x38c tire that does an outstanding job going back and forth from dirt to road. 

Uniquely styled and properly dialed, this custom Open UPPER is one we're thrilled to send out to hit the tracks. If a custom project like this has been on your list, give us a call, and we'll gladly walk you through the process of creating your very own. 

Want to see even more photos? Check out the gallery here.