Since Jeremy had his hands full with the Redline Monocog and the White Brothers Magic fork I was excited to take the reigns on this 29er build. The good folks at Vassago provided us with their steel hardtail called Bandersnatch. Ya, I like the name too. This would be last years model. The frame is built with Vassago’s Wet Cat Geometry. Yeesh, their cat picture caught me off guard!
Large frame
The dropouts have some kind of lugs on there. No replaceable dropout on the frame, but they chose to go with the replaceable on their ’08 model, if you’re into that sort of thing. I’m not picky, as long as it lasts. In the rear there’s room for rim or disc brakes but I’ll be using the latter. One fingered braking is a fine thing, yes it is!
Rear dropouts
Since I’m 5’10” I’m falling on right on the lower limit for rider size on this large frame. I’m planning on getting as short a stem as possible to start with. I tend to be comfortable in a more cramped cockpit. This will be my very first 29er so I’m excited to be putting this thing together. I’m going to try to do everything solo so I’m counting on the 29er to guide my inexperienced hands here. Mostly I’m excited to finally get a steel hardtail! Call me a simpleton but I love the precise ride of a good hardtail. I miss my Mountain Cycle Rumble and I’m hoping this one will deliver on the ride.
Velcro tennis ball mits have many uses
I commute on a Redline and normally ride with my hands on the drops so it looks like I’ll just be okay on the length. The frame is sleek and simple. There is an extra plate at the bottom head tube junction for added strength. I’m planning on going with a 2 x 9 full rigid setup initially but will probably go to three rings eventually. This frame keeps whispering in my ear and telling me to finish quickly. Stay tuned for updates on the build up!
