Rob English / English Cycles Cyclocross Build [COMPLETE]

[prendrefeu]

I don't think that bike is too bad. I'd definitely ride it.
Is it on offer?

But re: the stem notion: On that bike (above), it is really unnecessary since they are not using Cantilever brakes.
The cable-through-stem concept is for cantilever brakes specifically, where the cable connects with the brake system vertically center.

[USofChay]

For anyone wondering about the wait on a custom bike. Even though Rob is as prompt as anyone could reasonably expect, I just want to say that you don't know suffering until you order a custom bike. I feel like i'm a wait-weenie.

[jdp211]

I've seen it done before. This (ugly) bike has the same basic idea:

There was also a show bike at Interbike or Eurobike this year (can't remember), with an ENVE stem drilled out for center pull

[xnavalav8r]

Before linear pull, v-brakes... all the top-end stems had cable stops built into them for cantilever brakes. This was common on mtn bikes, 'cross bikes, and many road bikes as well. It's not a new idea, just a clean execution of an old idea.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/8379107@N03/4389912095/

http://www.firstflightbikes.com/Lstem121.JPG

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yyohe1TJ5So/T ... e-stop.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/bishopbikes/5447914251/

[KWalker]

Aren't you going to get some front braking action whenever you turn the bars ?

KWalker is correct (as usual.) The fork, brakes, stem, and bars are all moving on the same plane so the braking should work well. As far as I know, this is the only stem set up this way. Anyone know if this has been done before?

I know dozens of cross racers that drill out the center of the stem and run the cable through, but they don't have the integrated ferrule holder that you do.

[outnumbered]

Yah I was wondering about that as well, but you have to realize that when the bars move the fork also moves as well so the tension in the cable doesn't change. It would only change if one moved and the other didn't

Doh with hindsight I have no idea why I made that comment!

[USofChay]

I took a very short ride today. The bike rides beautifully and looks even better covered in mud.

[musket]

Best recent take on through stem routing is here: http://cielo.chrisking.com/bikes/cross-racer/

Super clean, the top bearing cover for the headset is even integrate to the base of the stem.

Though it'd be nice to see a few more fork mounted stops on CX bikes.

[xnavalav8r]

I can't see the stem well, but is it a Moots stem? (on the Cielo)

[USofChay]

Here's a better picture, Ted.
http://cdn3.media.cyclingnews.futurecdn ... em_600.jpg