【SKLAR BIKES Super Something】Circles Tailored Complete Bike

SKLAR BIKES Super Something × Sklarbon Fiber Carbon Gravel Fork

Sometimes I think a bicycle is a mysterious thing.

If you want to go fast, you can go as fast as you like, and if you seek comfort, you can make it even easier. We live in an era where lightness, rigidity, and cargo capacity can all be achieved at a very high level.

However, I feel there is still a kind of "feel-good factor" that cannot be measured by specs alone.

How you interpret those vague areas—that, I think, is where the rider’s perspective and preferences are revealed.

I believe this build, put together by Circles Tailored, is exactly that kind of bike.

SKLAR BIKES Super Something

SKLAR BIKES are created by Adam Sklar, a builder based in California, USA.

His bikes have a certain unique aura.

It’s not just about chasing speed. But it’s definitely not sluggish, either.

“A sturdy toy that can take you anywhere”—maybe that’s the feeling.

I also believe the Super Something is a bike that can't be fully explained by the term "gravel bike" alone.

You can cruise comfortably on paved roads, then head straight onto any dirt path that catches your eye.

It’s just as good for loading up with gear as it is for heading out for a spontaneous, unburdened ride.

It’s a frame that takes on a completely different character depending on the rider.

Installing the Sklarbon Fiber Carbon Gravel Fork

The biggest update on this build is swapping the stock steel fork for the newly released Sklarbon Fiber Carbon Gravel Fork, which was designed specifically for the Super Something.

To be honest, the stock steel fork on the Super Something is already incredibly refined.

It possesses the true essence of steel—strong and supple.

It feels truly wonderful, especially when loaded with gear or while rolling steadily over rough roads.

So, at first, I even wondered, “Is there really a need to switch to carbon?”

But once I finished the build, I realized this Sklarbon Fiber Carbon Gravel Fork isn't just about "speed."

Of course, it’s lighter and makes the handling more agile.

But what I feel more than that is a sense of it moving forward more nimbly and naturally than before. It’s in the way it maintains cruising momentum, the ease of acceleration, and the way it dampens fine vibrations.

All those aspects are balanced perfectly.

Yet, it doesn't result in that overly stiff, "race-only" feel.

It’s a balance that feels very SKLAR.

And it comes equipped with eyelets to handle any situation.

It goes without saying that you can attach racks or cargo cages like the KING CAGE Manything Cage, but it also includes dedicated eyelets for mounting fenders.

Keeping it true to SKLAR, including the headset

To match the fork, we used the SKLAR BIKES Sklar Headset.

The headset is a part where functionality is demanded, but it also has a significant impact on the "vibe" of the bike.

Frame, fork, headset.

When these come together, the overall atmosphere of the bike naturally falls into place.

If they don't, things can feel a bit mismatched.

It’s a minor detail, but one I really wanted to get right.

The reliability of GRX RX820

For components, we went with SHIMANO GRX RX820.

For this assembly, we chose a configuration of mechanical shifting with hydraulic brakes.

While electronic shifting has become very common, I still believe there are merits unique to mechanical systems.

The feel of pulling the cable while pushing the lever, the ease of adjustment and maintenance—it’s a perfect match for a "bike you’ll ride for a long time."

On the other hand, for the brakes, we chose hydraulic.

Considering off-road use, long distances, and riding in the rain, the reliability of hydraulic disc brakes is undeniable.

The confidence of being able to stop firmly with light pressure is something you can't go back from once you’re used to it.

Not leaning too much toward the classic, nor getting carried away with only the latest gear.

I think this configuration strikes an excellent balance.

THOMSON for the cockpit

For the cockpit, we used a THOMSON G2 Stem and Elite Seatpost.

THOMSON is a precision machining manufacturer founded in Georgia, USA.

With a background in manufacturing high-precision parts for the aerospace and military industries, they brought that machining expertise into the world of bicycle components.

That is why THOMSON products have such a unique "industrial" feel.

It’s not about excessive decoration, but rather a quality that is defined by the beauty of the machining itself.

The G2 Stem used here is a relatively new model for THOMSON.

While it retains the precision feel characteristic of THOMSON, it has been updated to suit modern road and gravel bikes, offering more natural handling and drastically improved rigidity.

I thought it was a perfect match for a bike like the Super Something that is "playful but performs well."

SIMWORKS Wonderer Bar

For the handlebars, we used the SIMWORKS Wonderer Bar.

This handlebar was out of stock for a long time depending on the size, but it made a comeback at the perfect time.

It features a short reach, a shallow drop, and a longer grip area. By keeping the cockpit compact, you can quickly transition into positions suited to different situations, making it easy to cruise on-road and stable when hitting the dirt. It’s an incredibly well-refined handlebar.

Wheels assembled with a focus on lightness and durability

We used WHITE INDUSTRIES CLD Hubs, ASTRAL CYCLING Outback Rims, and SIMWORKS Peregrine Spoke – 14 Straight Gauge spokes.

With this choice, we were very conscious of the balance between "seeking lightness" and "ensuring long-term usability."

The rotational feel and sound characteristic of WHITE INDUSTRIES also suit this type of bike perfectly.

Also, the Peregrine spokes provide a subtle but nice accent on this bike, which is otherwise unified with black parts.

Additionally, we fitted it with CONTINENTAL TerraAdventure 700c x 50mm tires and a WTB Gravelier Cromoly saddle.

SKLAR BIKES Super Something
Circles Tailored Complete Bike

This bike isn’t just for racing, nor is it strictly for touring. And it certainly isn’t limited to just city riding.

That’s exactly why I find it so interesting.

Riding it to work, taking a detour on the way home, and finding yourself playing on a dirt riverbank without even thinking about it. That kind of usage suits it naturally.

And on weekends, it can take you away from your daily routine and out on adventures—it’s that kind of bike.

Please come by the shop to see and touch it for yourself.

And for those of you who already ride a Super Something, I’d love for you to see how this build looks with the Sklarbon Fiber Fork installed.