Sage Cycles, who specialize in relatively low-cost titanium frames and a unique custom complete bike build program, announced an all-new model at the Interbike trade show on Wednesday. It’s called the Barlow, and Sage says that it splits the difference between its existing Skyline road and PDXCX cyclocross models. The Barlow is a gravel bike, or an all-road bike, or an adventure road bike–whatever you choose to call it. Highlights include a made-in-the-USA titanium frame, carbon ENVE fork, relaxed road geometry, a 44mm head tube, frame clearance for up to 40mm tires, a convertible rear dropout (thru-axle or quick release), and plenty of other unique details. Availability is set for around January of 2016. Here’s the official press release from Sage Cycles, which includes pricing information…
Sage Launches Barlow Gravel and Adventure Bike
Sage Cycles is proud to introduce the new Barlow gravel and adventure bike. Named after the famous Barlow trail in Oregon, the Sage Barlow is designed for going beyond the pavement. It is created with a passion for adventure and exploration. Artfully crafted in the United States from 3/2.5 titanium the Barlow combines the classic feel of titanium with innovation to create a fast, durable and beautifully riding machine. To keep the Barlow on track in loose dirt and gravel it features a 44 mm head tube for better front-end stiffness and precise handling. The head tube is mated to a double-butted, bi-ovalized, oversized down tube for better power transfer and climbing efficiency. The top tube is also double-butted and utilizes a sloping top tube design to improve stand over. The front triangle is completed with an English threaded bottom bracket, three water bottle mounts and a custom titanium seat post for increased shock absorption.
The Barlow is compatible with mechanical and electronic shifting systems. For the cleanest routing possible the Sage Barlow is equipped with our patent pending Cable Clip System (CCS). When mounted, the clip cleanly routes the cables under the down tube – complete with barrel adjusters for on-the-fly derailleur adjustments. For bikes equipped with electric shifting systems, the clip detaches from the frame, providing a wire port for internal routing of the shifter wires.
The rear triangle of the Sage Barlow is designed to maximize the properties of titanium while providing the stiffness required for all day adventures. At the bottom bracket the drive side chain stay attaches to a machined titanium plate for increased clearance for up to 40mm tires. The titanium plate also allows for the use of standard road gearing. Contributing to the rear triangle’s stiffness and clean lines are plate style dropouts. The dropouts convert for use with either standard quick release or thru axle hubs. Adding additional versatility to the Barlow are separate fender and rack mounts at the rear dropouts.
The Barlow will be available in January 2016 with complete bikes starting at $5,265 and framesets at $3,325.