Friday News And Views

Image courtesy of Surly Bikes

 Surly Sorceress Trail Bike Debuts:

On Tuesday of this week Surly Bikes dropped a new model into their line called the Sorceress. It is a long. low, slack  steel hardtail 29'er (27.5"er in XS) with the capability to be set up geared or single speed.  

Surly worked with SRAM to develop a new rear drop out which can be set up geared using the SRAM UDH hangar or a chip can be subsituted which allows for a single speed set up. Surly calls this new dropout the "DUH". (Yes, seriously they call it this)  

The geometry is slack with a 65° head tube angle using the suggested 140mm travel fork. The seat tube is minimized for maximum length dropper post use. Chain stay length is 429mm and the bike comes in complete form with Teravail 2.5" Kessel rubber. 

The bike comes in three complete specs and as a frame ($999.00) in Elderberry Tonic or Hot Honey Bling. The single speed is priced at $2,199.00, the Deore 12 speed model is $2,499.00, and the range topping SRAM Eagle 90 is $3,199.00. 

Sorceress drop outs (Image courtesy of Surly Bikes)

Comments: Let's see...... I think it was late 2012 when I reviewed that Diamondback Mason hardtail 29"er. It was about the same bike as this Surly model. So.....nothing new here. 

Yeah, its got that drop out the online sites are all ga-ga over. What is this? Like the 39th variation of a rear drop out Surly has designed over the past 20 years? I don't know......it's all right, I guess. Nothing mind-blowing. 

I'm not sure why Surly decided to make this bike now. Are dealers clamoring for something to sell like this? Are Surly "Humanoids| messaging Surly asking for this? Maybe they are. It just seems like a weird bike for Surly to sell because it hasn't got that "make it your own" thing nor does it really do anything oddball like one used to expect from Surly. Yes....it can be set up and purchased as a single speed. At least they got that part right. 

Image courtesy of Bianchi

Bianchi Releases Limited Edition Infinito Celebrating Paris-Roubaix:

 Paris-Roubaix is this weekend. It might be the most romanticized cycling event in world history. More so than any other "monument" of cycling and perhaps more so than the Tour de France as well. In my opinion, Paris-Roubaix has been more influential in regard to cycling competitions than any other cycling event ever. Just look at gravel events which borrow from either its name, its vibe, or both. 

In light of this, it should come as no surprise then to see a company like Bianchi release a very expensive, very limited edition bicycle to celebrate Paris-Roubaix. 

 The Infinito model was chosen to feature a special paint job with details such as cobbles and a commemorative logo on the seat tube. Only 55 Infinito bikes will feature this livery which points to the 55 kilometers of cobbles in the 2026 edition of Paris-Roubaix. 

See this and all Bianchi's bicycles at www.bianchi.com 

Shimano PD-GR400 flats (Image courtesy of Shimano)

Another Flat Pedal Choice:

I may be a bit behind on discovering these Shimano flat pedals, but the PD-GR400 from Shimano is right up my alley. 

The resin-composite body has nine replaceable grip pins per side and the entire pedal weighs a claimed 394 grams. At a cost of $79.99 direct from Shimano, these pedals seem like a pretty good value. 

I like that they come in different colors as well. Six colors to be exact. I'm showing purple because it is the best color ever, and there is no debate. (Ha!) 

I also like resin composite pedals in the colder times when a metal pedal acts like a heat sink and draws heat out of your foot/shoe combo. Not good! Resin is far less adept at transferring heat, which helps keep those tootsies warm in Winter. 

Anyway, these are not the only choice, but they are another choice I think is worth checking out. Personally I have been a big fan of Fyxation Mesa MP's and I have several sets of them running on different bikes. It looks like Fyxation is on the down and outs though, so I may have to use these Shimano pedals in the future. 

Image courtesy of White Industries

White Industries, Brunk Industries, and Moots Team Up for Titanium Cranks:

An unlikely trio of businesses have teamed up to help produce a made in USA titanium crank set. Brunk Industries does the stamping and forming of the titanium arms. White Industries does the precision machining of the arms and spindles. Moots does the welding of the arms and pedal inserts. 

The cranks will be sold through both White Industries and Moots in several lengths from 165mm, 170mm, and 175mm. Different spindle lengths accommodate MTB, Road, and Gravel drive trains. The cranks us 8 bolt SRAM chain ring mounting standard. Spindles can also be DUB standard or 30mm. Some slight detail differences exist between the Moots and White Industries offerings, mostly in the aesthetic realm. Both brands are selling this crank set for $1350.00 USD.  

Image courtesy of Ergon

Ergon Expands GDH Grip Line Sizing:

Ergon has had the GDH grip in the range for some time now but there was only one diameter/size available. Now there will be three sizes and some new colors as well. 

The news sizes vary 2mm smaller and2mm larger than the original GDH, so if you are a fan of the OG grip, no worries. It is now called Medium sized. 

The grips will all have the "GravityControl" grip compound, progressive damping, and anatomic finger boxes. 

Check out these grips on Ergon\s product page: ergonbike.com/en/lp/gdh-color and US riders can : buy them here. 

Grinduro Returns To PA:

Lockhaven, PA, July 18th, 2026 is the date and place for Grinduro Pennsylvania. Registration is open now. 

Grinduro is timed segment event. This means there are segments where you will be in competition, but there are also segments where you can just cruise and enjoy the ride. 

The event will be going through Sproul State Forest and will feature stunning views, top-notch aid stations, and live entertainment. The event will also feature the following:

• Four timed race segments with plenty of adventure in between
• Festive aid stations with proper fueling and the treats that will lift you spirits
• A lively post-ride celebration and “hootenanny”
• On-site camping available Friday and Saturday
• Possible “Hellbender” salamander sightings all weekend

Proceeds from Grinduro PA will benefit the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Cycling League #morekidsonbikes 

That's a wrap on this week. Stay in the saddle and ride!  
 

Gravel Grinder News: Bianchi's New Infinito "Allroads" Bike

Note: All information and images used for this article were provided by Bianchi. Comments are Guitar Ted's opinions and may not reflect those of Bianchi.

Bianchi Re-imagines the Infinito as an AllRoads Bike:

On Friday Bianchi released news of a redesigned Infinito. Their endurance road bike now becomes a bike with no limitations to road surfaces. In fact, it would have passed for a gravel racing bike ten years ago. 

What Bianchi has done with the new Infinito is then quite relevant today for anyone who sees their riding to be on pavement, rougher roads, and all the way to crushed rock roads. 

The new Infinito incorporates Bianchi's latest rider comfort features as well. The ground-up new design of the Infinito is an opportunity for a rider to get a bike"that makes you feel like you could ride forever". The Infinito does this by way of a special carbon fiber lay-up called "Countervail". 

The carbon is layered up with a special visco-elastic material which Bianchi claims is 20% lighter than the outgoing Infinito's was. This works as a vibration absorbing material which is enhanced in certain areas by way of special shaping. Most notably in the seat mast. 

Of course, aero efficiency was important for this new Infinito. Bianchi claims a 12 watt improvement over the previous generation of the Infinito. This has been done with the aid of a systemic approach to frame and fork design. 

Bianchi also took this opportunity with the new design to refine the Infinito's geometry. They increased the stack height, which Bianchi claims helps with comfort for a ridier on longer rides. Bianchi also lengthened the chain stays in an effort to increase stability. Finally, the seat mast features a zero offset design which helps open up the rider's hips, enhancing pedaling abilities and allows for easier breathing. Furthermore, the frame is offered in seven sizes to better fit riders. 

The Infinito Launch Edition will be limited to 200 units.

 Gravel Versatility

Finally, the part many of you might have been waiting for here. Bianchi opened up tire clearances to allow the Infinito to accept up to a 40mm tire. Bianchi also says the new Infinito will support both gravel and road groups. There is even down tube storage on this bike, which is something generally only seen on gravel bikes up to this point. 

NOTE: Reading Bianchi's site for this new bike, I found the geometry chart to be mismarked. Obvious errors in the identification for measurements exist, but one could infer a few things based upon generally accepted geometry for a bicycle like this. 

 Prices:

Pricing for the new Infinito models will be as folows:

Launch Edition: Custom Infinito Pro build and exclusive finish. Priced at €7,790. $9,050.00 USD*

Infinito Pro: Premium build, available in five colourways with 2x12-speed SRAM Force AXS/Rival AXS and Shimano Ultegra Di2/105 Di2 groupset options, starting from €4,950. $5,750.00 USD *

Infinito: Standard build, available in two colourways with 12-speed Shimano 105 Di2 and mechanical groupset options, starting from €2,790. $3,250.00 USD*

*Prices for USA are estimates and do not include any shipping/tariffs. 

Comments: So, again we see road bikes encroaching on territory once reserved for "gravel bikes" and any other type of bicycle which could handle a big, poofy tire. It is hard to deny Bianchi's assertion that the new Infinito is a "light gravel" choice for riders now with the capability to handle a 700 x 40mm tire. 

This bicycle is just one of many I think is going to be coming out in the next couple of years which will force riders and brands to rethink what a "road bike" really is. Now, as far as I could gather from the mismarked geometry chart on Bianchi's site, this bike still retains a very road bike-like geometry. The head angle is pretty steep from a gravel perspective. The bottom bracket drop is merely "okay". Obviously many riders now wouldn't consider a bike for gravel unless it could make do with wider tires than 40mm. 

However; there is a lot here which crosses over, and for many riders, 40mm is quite enough as it lends the pavement rider ability to cross gravel roads to connect to pavement again. Or perhaps a smooth dirt road stands between you and that sweet stretch of vacated road way. Maybe you have an abandoned highway near you that is a little rough with 30mm tires but 40's? Let's go!

I'm waiting for this category to become the preferred road bike for most people. Gravel-only is not as appealing to many riders as a bike which "could" go graveling but is still a road bike. This Bianchi says "road bike" but with benefits. I think this is what more people want more than they want "true gravel" bikes. 

Two Things

A collection of oddball things from 1994

When I Die, So Will This Knowledge:

My mechanic friend, Ari, and I were discussing the techniques, tricks, and wisdom gained in the trade all the years we've been at this. Ari said to me, "(Do) you realize how much crap we know?!!!"

Things like which parts go with certain set ups. Take for instance the image here. A 1" steer tube, a cable hangar, and a threadless head set. What does this tell you? 

It tells me this is a super-rare set up. You see, 1" threadless steer tubes lasted about two years in the industry because threadless (1994) came in just as 1 1/8th was on the rise. Also, cantilever brakes were on the outs in 1996, as linear pull took over, so cable hangars for any sort of threadless steer tube were hard to find ten years on. This means that Ritchey cable hangar is a super-rare part. The stem isn't far off either. 

And check out those "lugs". It was a Bianchi thing. They claimed an ability to make any lug with any angle, a thing unheard of with investment cast lugs. Bianchi could do this because they TIG welded the lugs first to either the head tube or the bottom bracket shell. Then the lug was brass brazed to a frame tube, like a traditional lug, which Bianchi claimed gave the frame better vibration damping qualities. They had a name for this - "Super Lug". Yeah.....I know some pretty oddball factoids. 

I was trying to teach my assistant at the Collective how to set up a traditional cantilever brake with the straddle wire and cable carrier. He's well versed in linear pull brake set up but this was giving him fits. I told him, "Yeah, it's a pain in the ass but you have to just take your time to learn it." 

Today, we look for an app, a way to electronically adjust our, whatever, and if this isn't working right we throw a fit. We are helpless and stuck with no options. Well, it wasn't like this always. Mechanics could find a way. But as we make everything a device, we take away the ability to field service, or even service an item at all. 

And who knows how to fix that old stuff anyway. Answer: When I die, there will be one less person who does know how. 

I Used To Do That?!

Related to the bike above, which was donated to the Cedar Valley Bicycle Collective late last year, is this bike sticker which was on it. I removed it for a reason. 

See, I designed the biker in the logo. 

I had forgotten I had done that. Long ago, before I even worked at Advantage Cyclery, I was a jeweler and where I worked we did all of our own design work. Not just jewelry, but advertising, logos, and we occasionally did work for other clients. Tom, who ran and owned Advantage Cyclery, found out I did this sort of work and suggested I give this idea he had for a logo a try. What you see on the sticker is what I drew up for him. 

It's no big deal. Just a logo for a long-forgotten Cedar Valley bicycle shop. But when I saw it, I was reminded of the days when I was spending time doing tons of design work. It was fun. Challenging, but fun. It is nice to be reminded that I did something cool one time. 

Ha!  

Friday News And Views

 Image courtesy of the Rattlesnake Rumble social media:

Rattlesnake Rumble Gravel Race Announced:

On September 4th an announcement went out saying the Mississippi Gravel Cup Series would end after their series of 2025 events were over. This series had been in existence for eight years and had several events in Mississippi. 

But sad news leaving a void is sometimes followed by good news, and this is the case for those in the Southeastern USA now that a new event has been announced. 

This event, dubbed the Rattlesnake Rumble, takes place in the Desoto National Forest where one of the old Mississippi Gravel Cup events was based out of as well. This event features a few distances and costs only $50.00. If you are interested in this early April 2026 event, check out their BikeReg page HERE. 

Image courtesy of AERON/TPU

TPU Tubes Take Hold:

I've been experimenting with TPU tubes for a couple of years now and it seems many riders are taking the new technology and trusting it for their ride.  

Last weekend one of the C.O.G. 40 riders was using TPU tubes in his tires and seemed to be pretty happy with them. However; I also know at least one dissatisfied former TPU tube user. So, not everyone is onboard with TPU tubes. But more and more folks seem to be checking them out.  

Options are becoming available with more features. Last week I mentioned the SILCA TPU tubes, and I may be getting a set of the new AERON TPU tubes to test soon. One other thing I've noted is the recommended width offerings are becoming more wide-ranged. 

So, instead of a TPU tube being recommended for 35mm - 40mm, I'm seeing thing like recommendations from 32mm - 52mm ! I think the stretch-ability of TPU has been found to be more resilient and accommodating than once thought. But unlike butyl rubber tubes, TPU, once stretched, stays stretched. This may not matter, but it is worth noting. 

Look for more on TPU tubes here soon.  

Image courtesy of Bianchi Bicycles

Bianchi Announces New Aluminum Gravel Model:

Bianchi expanded their range of gravel/allroad bicycles by introducing the aluminum version of their Arcadex adventure/gravel bike. Called the Arcadex AL, this bike comes in three colors with a Shimano GRX 610 12 speed mechanical group set. 

Bianchi also states this bike has tire clearance for up to 50mm tires. There are rack and fender mounts, along with accessory mounts on the fork blades making this a good choice for bike packing and adventures.  

Comments: The geometry here is right in the pocket for what I would consider great handling and stability over most surfaces. The seat tube measurements are a tad on the short size for each size, but this is most likely in deference to the dropper post option this frame supports. I couldn't find an updated price, but I would assume this is a reasonably priced, enthusiasts level bike choice. 

Paris - Ancaster 2026 Registration Open:

The classic Canadian event,  Paris - Ancaster, is going to happen on Sunday, April 26th, 2026. Registration for this event is now open (Here) 

This event, which has been held annually since 1994, was on the UCI Gravel World Series calendar for 2025, but there is no indication yet this will be the case for 2026. 

The event is a point-to-point course with three distance options. The "Cento" is 100km, the "Classic" is the original 70km distance, and the "Brevet" is a 45km distance event. Since the event is point-to-point, the starting lines are different for each distance.  

Comments: The event features farm roads, muddy tracks, and difficult sections which have challenged riders for years. This event was one of the first featured on my "Gravel Grinder News" calendar back almost 20 years ago now. Since then I have heard varying takes on the event with some stating it isn't  really a "gravel" event, but it isn't your typical roadie event either, so....

Image courtesy of the Mid-South

2026 Mid-South Registration Opens:

The 2026 Mid-South will be a two-day event this coming year with dates set on  March 12 - 13th. There are several new changes to this event set to take place. 

First and most interesting is the separation of the Pro categories from the amateurs. This coming March the Pro categories will take the start on Friday. Even more interesting is the choice for the Pro's to do the "Double", a 50k run and the 100 mile bicycle event, on the same day.  

All other categories for cyclists will be contested on Saturday as this event has done since its inception. Amateur runners will compete on Friday as well. 

A new finish line area has been designated which will be set up near the new Stillwater Park and Amphitheater. 

The Mega-Mid-South, a 300 mile ultra-distance event, will take place tomorrow out of District Bicycles where the Mid-South registration party will also be happening. Participants can come down and send off the Mega Mid-South riders and stick around for fun and refreshments. Registration will be held online at the Mid-South's online site.  

Image courtesy of Campagnolo

New Super Record X 13 For Campy Brings Gravel An Italian Option:

Campagnolo has dabbled in the gravel category for several years with its groundbreaking, if not popular, Ekar 13 speed group. Now Campagnolo is putting forth an effort to compete at the highest levels of the gravel racing scene with a new 13 speed group called Super Record X. 

A 1X group, this new choice features two choices in cassettes with a 9 - 42T set or a 10 - 48T set. The jumps between gears are relatively small, and in fact, both cassettes are really similar with the only difference being at the extremes. One having a start at 9T and ending at 42T while the other cassette has the same gears minus the 9T and adding the 48T. 

The other important piece here is the crank set. The new Super Record X gets a power meter crank or a non-power metered crank with chain ring sizes ranging from 38T - 48T and the capability to upgrade to a 52T ring. The arms and ring are matched for best aero characteristics.  Lengths range from 165mm to 175mm. The cranks utilize Campy's longstanding Ultra Torque bottom bracket design. 

The rear derailleur is wireless and electronic, of course, with a removable battery which charges in 60 minutes or less. Campy also has made the cage out of carbon fiber with different sized pulleys. The Universal Mount will work with frames set up with the UDH standard or traditional mounts for derailleurs. Maximum tooth range is 48T. 

The levers are borrowed from the current Super record 13 group with the left lever being the only "new" piece seeing as it has only to activate the front brake. Otherwise the shifting is accomplished with a separate lever behind the brake lever on the right side with the return of the famous Campy "thumb lever" on the inside of the upper lever body. 

See more details at Campy's Super record X site HERE. 

That is a wrap for this week! get out and ride those bicycles!

Friday News And Views

That Deal With That "One Guy" On That Famous Lady's Show....

You may have noticed that the lack of commentary on what happened with a certain cyclist, ("He Who Shall Not Be Named") , has been missing from this blog for a while. You may wonder what I think about the media event that occurred last night. Well, I am not going to say a word about it. But, I do have something to point you to that I found well considered and thoughtful on the subject.

The commentary is from former frame builder and musician, Dave Moulton. His take on the situation is something that hits close to my heart and feelings on the matter, so if you wonder what I think, this is a pretty close representation of what I think right here.

What I found that was particularly of interest to me was Dave's description of riding in "The Bunch" and how the culture of cycling was something a universe away from what he found here in the U.S., and obviously light years different than the world of Pro Cycling on the road over the course of the past couple of decades.

In many ways, I would like to believe that gravel racing today is what Mr. Moulton would find reminiscent of his formative days riding in Britain. Riders looking out for one another, camaraderie, and fun with a healthy dose of adventure. Maybe I am a hopeless romantic, but that's what I love about the gravel racers I know well.

Bianchi Boardwalk- circa 1994

Another Old Friend Comes To Visit: 

My first bike shop job was at a place in Cedar Falls, Iowa called Advantage Cyclery. Well, actually I worked at their satellite store on College Hill called Campus Cyclery first, but that's another detail.... The thing is, I worked at Advantage for three years before the shop went out of business.

Shortly before that happened, I was pretty much alone there most days. My boss had kind of disappeared in the sense that he never was there during store hours, or if he did come in, he was sequestered in his office down in the basement and I never saw him. I say all of that to put the following into perspective.

My boss bought about 30 small, medium, and large Bianchi Boardwalk hybrids that were already 2 years old. Yes- he got a screaming deal on them, because Bianchi, who perennially had old stock in their warehouses, years old, would jump at the chance to ship out bikes for pennies on the dollar  just to get rid of them.   By the way- this rarely happens anymore, so don't get any ideas out there!

Anyway, these bikes were steel, well spec'ed with complete Alivio groups, but were all Men's models in Bianchi's flagship color, Celeste. Not yer most manly of colors, and perhaps why these were languishing in the warehouse for so long. The normal retail on these was something around $700.00, but we were selling them for $399.99, or something crazy like that. It was a great deal, as I recall.

I assembled every one of the 30 or so bikes, and displayed every one of them in a giant row in the middle of the store. (I was pretty much free to do as I pleased in the store by this point.) I also sold every single one of those bikes, most to men. I don't mean to brag, but I was rather proud of that feat.

So I see one come back every once in awhile these days, some 18 years past the time I sold them. It's good to see them still being ridden and taken care of. This particular one was a medium and besides some rusty chain and handle bars, was in great condition. Good to see an old friend.....

Sage Advice: 

Hey, you may not be in T.I.V9, or even any other gravel event, but these gravel events are getting more and more popular all the time. If you've ever wondered what level of geekery it takes to do something like 300 plus miles of Iowa gravel in one sitting, you should check out my buddy Ari's post here. 

It is an open letter to trans Iowa Rookies, but anyone can certainly learn a thing or three from this. If nothing else, you get the sense of dedication and passion for gravel road riding and for Trans Iowa in particular.

So, thanks Ari! I really appreciate those thoughts, and I trust your info will help a lot of folks out there.

That's a wrap. I hope all of you don't forget why you ride a bike.  Now go do it....

Friday News And Views

That Deal With That "One Guy" On That Famous Lady's Show....

You may have noticed that the lack of commentary on what happened with a certain cyclist, ("He Who Shall Not Be Named") , has been missing from this blog for a while. You may wonder what I think about the media event that occurred last night. Well, I am not going to say a word about it. But, I do have something to point you to that I found well considered and thoughtful on the subject.

The commentary is from former frame builder and musician, Dave Moulton. His take on the situation is something that hits close to my heart and feelings on the matter, so if you wonder what I think, this is a pretty close representation of what I think right here.

What I found that was particularly of interest to me was Dave's description of riding in "The Bunch" and how the culture of cycling was something a universe away from what he found here in the U.S., and obviously light years different than the world of Pro Cycling on the road over the course of the past couple of decades.

In many ways, I would like to believe that gravel racing today is what Mr. Moulton would find reminiscent of his formative days riding in Britain. Riders looking out for one another, camaraderie, and fun with a healthy dose of adventure. Maybe I am a hopeless romantic, but that's what I love about the gravel racers I know well.

Bianchi Boardwalk- circa 1994

Another Old Friend Comes To Visit: 

My first bike shop job was at a place in Cedar Falls, Iowa called Advantage Cyclery. Well, actually I worked at their satellite store on College Hill called Campus Cyclery first, but that's another detail.... The thing is, I worked at Advantage for three years before the shop went out of business.

Shortly before that happened, I was pretty much alone there most days. My boss had kind of disappeared in the sense that he never was there during store hours, or if he did come in, he was sequestered in his office down in the basement and I never saw him. I say all of that to put the following into perspective.

My boss bought about 30 small, medium, and large Bianchi Boardwalk hybrids that were already 2 years old. Yes- he got a screaming deal on them, because Bianchi, who perennially had old stock in their warehouses, years old, would jump at the chance to ship out bikes for pennies on the dollar  just to get rid of them.   By the way- this rarely happens anymore, so don't get any ideas out there!

Anyway, these bikes were steel, well spec'ed with complete Alivio groups, but were all Men's models in Bianchi's flagship color, Celeste. Not yer most manly of colors, and perhaps why these were languishing in the warehouse for so long. The normal retail on these was something around $700.00, but we were selling them for $399.99, or something crazy like that. It was a great deal, as I recall.

I assembled every one of the 30 or so bikes, and displayed every one of them in a giant row in the middle of the store. (I was pretty much free to do as I pleased in the store by this point.) I also sold every single one of those bikes, most to men. I don't mean to brag, but I was rather proud of that feat.

So I see one come back every once in awhile these days, some 18 years past the time I sold them. It's good to see them still being ridden and taken care of. This particular one was a medium and besides some rusty chain and handle bars, was in great condition. Good to see an old friend.....

Sage Advice: 

Hey, you may not be in T.I.V9, or even any other gravel event, but these gravel events are getting more and more popular all the time. If you've ever wondered what level of geekery it takes to do something like 300 plus miles of Iowa gravel in one sitting, you should check out my buddy Ari's post here. 

It is an open letter to trans Iowa Rookies, but anyone can certainly learn a thing or three from this. If nothing else, you get the sense of dedication and passion for gravel road riding and for Trans Iowa in particular.

So, thanks Ari! I really appreciate those thoughts, and I trust your info will help a lot of folks out there.

That's a wrap. I hope all of you don't forget why you ride a bike.  Now go do it....