The Doppo High Plains Drifter v.2 is arriving.
Not “how far can it go,” but “it makes you want to ride anywhere.”
The Doppo High Plains Drifter v.2 from SIMWORKS will soon be arriving at Circles Tailored.
The original High Plains Drifter appeared four years ago.
Bringing the culture and atmosphere of the early mountain bikes, the so-called “klunkers,” into the present day while taking on the specs today's riding calls for, such as disc brakes, Boost spacing and a dropper post, it has captivated many riders as an ATB (All Terrain Bike).
But the appeal of this bike can't be told by a spec sheet alone.
Judged purely by modern materials and design techniques, its form may at first glance seem less than rational.
The twin top tubes and the truss fork (a reinforced front fork) could both be made more simply if you considered today's technology alone.
But once you know the history and culture behind it, each detail starts to look different. And before you know it, you should find that very form irresistibly appealing.
The previous model we actually have on display in the shop also stops many people in their tracks and holds their gaze.
A presence that photos can't fully convey is part of this frame's particular appeal, too.
And the twin top tubes and truss fork were by no means adopted for looks alone.
By inheriting the thinking that the early mountain bikes developed, with big fat tires, longish chainstays, a highish BB height and so on, it can go on and on, whatever the road.
It's a bike that offers today's riders that freedom the ATB was always about.
These days, bikes are finely sorted by purpose.
Gravel bikes, mountain bikes, adventure bikes, touring bikes……
Each has its appeal, of course.
But the High Plains Drifter makes you feel afresh the original ATB idea: not being tied to a purpose or a category, but playing freely on a single bike.
You're only cruising around town, yet you want to turn down that alley that caught your eye.
You were supposed to be riding on pavement, yet when you spot some dirt you find yourself steering toward it.
You want to enjoy the journey itself more than getting to the destination.
Loading up and heading off on a camping tour is good.
A leisurely ride through the nearby countryside hills is good, too.
Even on an ordinary commute or a ride around town, you want to take a bit of a detour.
It's a bike that naturally stirs up the urge to go and play on a bicycle.
Like its predecessor, this High Plains Drifter v.2 is built one frame at a time in Portland, Oregon.
Oscar Camarena, the framebuilder behind the original HPD, is building them again this time.
On top of that, accessories that deepen this bike's world are available as well, such as a dedicated frame bag by Jack Supply and a dedicated handlebar made by Doom Bars.
That it has been worked out down to the last detail as one complete product is another big part of this bike's appeal.
The number arriving this time is by no means large.
If you've had your eye on one, do take this opportunity to see the bike in person.
That unique presence that photos alone can't convey.
And it's a bike whose appeal grows deeper still once you know its history.
“With a bicycle, you can ride anywhere.”
The High Plains Drifter is a bike that reminds you of that simple joy.
Do come and see its distinctive presence for yourself in the shop.