The Build

The original rust bike.

Built around a Claud Butler Sierra frameset in Reynolds 531 tubing, this fixie’s as happy on the open road as it is on a grocery run. While 531 is not Reynolds’ most exotic steel, it’s the one most suited to daily use and abuse. The perfect mix of durability and performance.

I receive a lot of comments and questions about the surface rust finish. A lot of admiring glances too. Truth be told, it was a prototype that exceeded all expectations on the very first attempt. A few educated guesses and a workshop full of chemicals and wire wool combined to create some bike magic. I’ll do a how-to video on it one day.

In terms of the component choices, simplicity was key. 700c wheels, fixed gearing and a front rack for the shopping. 35c tyres for comfort and puncture resistance. Brooks honey leather.

There’s a full spec. list below for the curious. Enjoy.

Gallery

Specification

Frame: Claud Butler Sierra 21.5″ (Reynolds 531)
Forks: Claud Butler Sierra (Reynolds 531)
Headset: Unbranded
Bars: Bullhorn “chop n flop”
Stem: Unbranded
Bar tape: Brooks Microfibre, honey

Brake levers: Shimano R550 **
Brake calipers: Tektro **
Brake cables: Clarks stainless **

Saddle: Brooks B17, honey
Seatpost: Ergotec 26.4mm
Seatclamp: Campagnolo

Cranks: Shimano RX100
Chainring: Brick Lane Bikes Track 48T 1/8th
Bottom bracket: Shimano cup and cone
Chain: KMC Z510 1/8th
Sprocket: LifeLine 18T 1/8th
Pedals: Shimano PD-A550

Wheeset: Shroom Classic, 700c
Tyres: Michelin World Tour, 35c

Accessories: Basil Portland front rack

** added after the photos were taken