【BIKE of the WEEK】RETROTEC Hybrid Gravel

This week's BIKE of the WEEK features a build that has long since been delivered to its owner and one we hadn't been able to introduce until now; I’d like to talk about this beautiful RETROTEC.

The story began quite suddenly. An owner visited us from afar and asked to consult on ordering a RETROTEC. For custom builds, we usually have customers reach out via email or phone for a consultation before visiting, but I was so impressed and happy that this customer had traveled such a long way to tell us in person that they wanted to place an order.

We took their measurements, discussed their ideal vision for the bike and what kind of riding they wanted to enjoy, and after that, we communicated via email to relay the order details to Curtis. A full year later, the frame arrived.

The owner, who normally enjoyed commuting and daily rides on a single-speed, wanted to start riding dirt trails and touring on the weekends. Their request was for a bike that could fit wider tires, start with a flat bar for a relaxed position, and eventually be easily converted to a drop bar. After incorporating Curtis's advice, we settled on the concept of a hybrid gravel bike that can be enjoyed with either flat or drop bars.

The frame shape features the "Double" style, one of Curtis's trademarks, where an additional tube is welded beneath the round top tube. While this secondary tube can also be ordered in a round style like the top tube, opting for a straight tube adds an accent to the beautiful, curved flow from the rear triangle to the top tube.

With the intention of long-term enjoyment rather than prioritizing light weight, we also custom-ordered a segmented-style fork to match the frame. Of course, it is heavier than a carbon alternative, but it is still lighter than a standard steel fork, and its ride quality is addictive.

It’s truly mysterious how bikes made by Curtis, despite their unique round-top shape, move forward so effortlessly once you start pedaling; it's a fact that many people become captivated by that gap the moment they take their first pedal stroke.

The photos show Curtis at an event called Meet Your Maker held in California this past April. Curtis is as tasteful and fast on a bike as ever, and the beautiful frames he creates really have an allure that draws people in. I am personally very excited to see him again at MADE, a new handmade bike show being held in Portland this August.

If you feel a spark, please feel free to reach out to us.

Our photo archive of bikes built by Circles is now public.
Feel free to look through it to fuel your own custom bike inspiration.