The Bastion 007 arrived at AC in October of 2016, all raw ti lugs, wound carbon tubes, and splashes of red on the logos and dropouts. The build was straightforward and comprised a SRAM Red Etap 11-speed group with a Quarq power meter, Enve 3.4s laced to a White Industries T11 hub set running Continental 25s, an Enve cockpit with a Brooks Cambium saddle and Busyman tape, King cages and Shimano DA pedals. Oh, and the computer mount was from a down under-brand called Fetha, which sadly does not exist anymore. The fork is from No. 22 - you can still find a photo on the AC site.
Eight years on the Bastion still gets exercised several times each week, albeit with some updated pieces. For example, the same 11-speed SRAM/Quarq group is in place, but it’s now joined by Lightweight Meilenstein wheels mated to Vittoria 28s. The rejuvenated touchpoints comprise a Darimo seatpost and stem with a Bjorn Rool handlebar and a Bjorn Setka saddle. The bottle cages, computer mount and bar end plugs are from Carbon Works. In short, the machine is lighter, and the engine is older.
As instructed years ago, the frame build is built to be in the middle of the stiffness range with nice, smooth handling. The combination of carbon and titanium provides a great feel, with the benefits of both materials coming through. The wheels upgrade makes the machine more efficient, and the lighter parts are felt (15.87 lbs/7.21 kg).
The Bastion 007 is the brand’s “Road” frame and original concept with a largish down tube. Since then, they have developed the Superleggera version, which, of course, is lighter still. Additionally, they have developed their own fully internal/aero Bar/Stem and fork. They also offer a gravel bike (the All-Road) and a limited-edition Archangel. 3D printing was cutting edge in the bike world 8 years ago and is now seen as a natural addition to most titanium and many steel frames.
Bastion will produce its 1000th frameset in 2025.
MIKE'S RIDE
Pine Flats Healdsburg, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County
Begin with an excellent bakery item from Quail and Condor! Warm up by heading north on Healdsburg Ave, along the multi-use path, and the lovely flat Alexander Valley Road for about 8 miles. Then, you are onto the scenic 11-ish mile climb up Pine Flats.
There is, in fact, a flat area about 7 miles into the route that is 2-ish miles long before the final 3 miles to the top. You will have incredible vistas of both Sonoma and Napa counties; if you are fortunate, you may see flows of Swallows presenting their air show artwork.
The narrow and winding road stays at a pleasant grade until you hit mile 13. It kicks up there for about a mile, then you hit the flats for a nice reprieve before you hit the steep last 2 miles to the top. The road surface varies greatly - typical for the less traveled roads in the area - and while the traffic is sparse, there are many blind curves, so word to the wise, take it easy on the way down. Back in town, there are many options for lunch. A sister establishment to your breakfast is Troubadour for a sandwich, glass of wine, or beer. On the day we rode this route, Jim and I lucked out as they were serving a very nice pastrami.
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