This week we’re looking at another edition of the Prova Mostro Gravel bike. Titanium fork, big wheels, fast tires, and great lines. Intended for fast, efficient riding on smoother gravel roads, the Mostro backs up its striking aesthetics with a ride feel to match.
For wheels and rubber we chose Duke’s Baccara WRX Aero 42 built around a set of Chris King hubs and Tufo Thundero 44mm super fast tires. Duke is pioneer in the gravel and MTB world—striking a balance with compliance and ride quality, making it a no brainer for this type of build. The hubs in a natural aluminum to compliment the rest of the build, along with Silver Sapim spokes, and Chris King lock rings top things off.
The finish is a great example of how keeping things simple can have the greatest effect. Raw, brushed titanium and black paint is it. This is a great case of “it looks even better in person” look. The nice part about the titanium fork is being able to match the raw titanium finish on the bottom of the legs.
The cockpit is made up of ENVE’s Aero Pro bar/stem combination. We threw a Selle Italia saddle that Mick Peel of Busyman took apart and re-covered with Black Alcantara fabric. Topped off with Mark Hester-built titanium seat post.
SRAM Red 2X group was chosen for the drivetrain since this bike was going to be sticking mainly to the gravel roads. A 33 ring and 36 large cog should still be able to get most folks anywhere they need to go when the terrain starts pointing skyward. Brakes are also SRAM only with HOPE rotors. The group is pretty straight forward with exception of the new Ceramicspeed Alpha bottom bracket. The final small details consist of titanium thru axles, cages and a full spec of ti bolts holding everything together.
From the initial idea to the final build in our Sausalito studio, these are the projects we care most about. Bikes with clear intent behind their purpose, paired with some of the world’s finest craftsmanship, executed without compromise.
If this build speaks to you, or if you have a custom bike idea of your own, give us a shout. We’re always happy to talk through ideas and bring a dream build to life.
- Chad
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