We recently handed over this bike to its owner, but this time we’d like to introduce a beautiful build from BREADWINNER CYCLES (hereafter BREADWINNER) after a long while.
The owner purchased a SURLY Cross Check back when Circles had its former shop and enjoyed everything from everyday riding to weekend rides. As their riding range gradually expanded, they began enjoying day trips and bike-packing rides, and they consulted us about a new bike with the request, “I want to go farther and faster on a lighter bike.”
Since the bike was intended for long-term enjoyment as a fun ride rather than for racing, we began discussing a steel frame. To ensure a good fit for the petite owner, we decided to order a frame from BREADWINNER, which offers custom ordering.
BREADWINNER’s distinctive approach is to have the rider choose a model from a selection of designs with basic specifications tailored to the intended use, and then have the bike custom-sized based on the rider’s body measurements.
Given the desire to ride longer distances with a light setup and the fact that it would primarily be ridden on paved roads, we chose the Lolo Disc road model.
The bike features Columbus Life tubing, highly acclaimed for being lightweight and responsive, resulting in a ride that is nimble on climbs and rhythmic on descents and through winding roads.
The components include mechanical Ultegra (unfortunately, current models are only available in Di2), and since the brakes are hydraulic, the down tube features internal brake hose routing.
All current BREADWINNER disc road and gravel models come standard with this internal routing, allowing for a clean bike.
While we focused on reliable components that would last as long as possible, we also wanted to keep the rolling stock light for bike-packing trips, so we went all out and chose ENVE carbon rims.
Naturally, these were paired with CHRIS KING R45D hubs. We chose these without compromise because they are components that can last forever with proper maintenance, especially since the rolling stock is such an important part of the bike. Although this wasn't an option when the bike was ordered, CHRIS KING Wheel's ARD44 is also a great option now.
Frame BREADWINNER CYCLES Lolo Disc Headset CHRIS KING Inset 8 Stem SIMWORKS Rhonda Handlebar SIMWORKS Wonderer Bar [OLD] Tire PANARACER Agilest 700x28c Rim ENVE SES 3.4 AR Disc Rim Hub CHRIS KING R45D Groupset SHIMANO Ultegra R8000 Saddle SELLE ANATOMICA X2 Leather Saddle
At a height in the 150s, options are inevitably limited with mass-produced bikes. The stronger your vision of how you want to ride, the more a custom order is the fastest way to make it a reality.
There are many materials to choose from, including carbon, aluminum, titanium, and steel, but if you're primarily focused on fun rides, a material that will last a long time is ideal, and it can also be repaired if anything happens. This is the true appeal of a steel frame, and it's also the secret behind why BREADWINNER, which continues to embody "Steel is real," is loved by so many cyclists across North America and beyond.
Circles accepts BREADWINNER orders.
Please check the links below for the price list and order form for each model.
BREADWINNER CYCLES Brand Page
BREADWINNER CYCLES Order Form
Our photo archive of bikes built by Circles is now available.
Feel free to explore the possibilities for your custom bike.
