custom build

What drew you to build this bike up, with the parts you’ve used?

Before this my only bike was a classic Peugeot road bike, and I wanted a more versatile bike which could handle gravel trails and the road, and carry a decent load to be able to commute. 

Abby suggested the Soma Grand Randonneur, which I liked, and we chose the rest of the parts to complement that frame.

Was there a particular intention for this custom build?

I really wanted a do-everything bike. A big emphasis was just comfort – I’ve never really owned a bike that fit properly before so it’s a very nice change.

Having built it up, is there anything further you wish to change or experiment with?

The combination of drop bars and front rack means finding an appropriate basket or bag is going to be an interesting challenge. 

Next year I’m going to be studying Product Design so if the opportunity comes up I’m sure the bike will end up as a bit of a test-bed for parts of my own design.

Any particular rides you’d like to do with the bike, or have already done?

I rode to and from work at Green Street! Getting home was a challenge – almost entirely uphill up Mount Alexander Road, but I managed it. 

I’m also looking forward to doing the Maribyrnong River Trail on an appropriate bike.