Originally published in Road Bike Action, August 2015
Titanium was once the premier material of choice for bicycle frame builders and, thanks to several talented artisans, still remains a viable option for many cyclists due to its ride quality and durability. But since the material can be cost-prohibitive for many consumers, the Oregon-based company Sage has taken it upon itself to offer a unique way for someone to build their titanium dream bike. Meet the Skyline.
THE FRAME
The Skyline frame is a unique design created by Sage and manufactured by titanium bike company Lynskey at their Tennessee factory before being shipped to Sage’s headquarters in Portland, Oregon, for the build process. It’s crafted from 3/2.5 titanium tubes and includes a 44mm head tube, a classic external English-threaded bottom bracket, and, thanks to Sage’s patent-pending cable-guide system, can accommodate either external cable routing for mechanical drivetrains and easy maintenance or internal routing for electronic wires and clean aesthetics. Seven frame sizes are available, and our size-50cm test bike featured head and seat angles of 72.25 and 74.5 degrees, respectively, as well as a 122mm head tube length. Considering that Lynskey’s builders has been manufacturing titanium bicycle frames for over 30 years, it’s no surprise that the Skyline evokes terrifi c craftsmanship.