Urbanus Magnus

Without further delay, I present to you the Origin 8 CX700-framed-all-rounder: Origin 8's Cx700 frame allows me to run 29er tyres, yet doesn't look out of place running skinny rubber. The specs: - Origin 8 CX700 Cyclocross/Touring/All-Rounder frame, 56 cm * - CST Critter 29 x 2.1" tyres * - Mountain Equipment Co-Op Alloy Seatpost (rebranded Kalloy Uno) - 27.0 mm * - Brooks B17 Standard, Honey - Nitto B-115 - 40cm/25.4 mm clamp - RSX 3x8 Brifters - Avenir adjustable threadless stem w/ Origin 8 Spacers* - FSA "The Hammer" 1 1/8 in Headset * - Shimano BB-UN26 Sq. Tpr. * - Alivio 22-32-42 Crank - Victor VP-196 Pedals w/toe clips (VP-565 Platforms shown in pictures) - SRAM 12-32 7-Speed Casette - Alivio F. Der, 31.8mm clamp  * - Alivio R. Der - KMC Z-Chain * - Wheels: Alivio hubs laced to 36h Araya PX-35 rims - Jagwire "Basics" Cables + Housings * - Tektro 720 Cantis         A "*" means bought new. All other parts are scav...

The new frame has arrived - after a mix up with the sizing - and the parts should be here in the next few days too. Initial Impressions: -Frame = fairly light, porbably ~5-6 lbs though. Still, lighter than before. -Very sturdy feeling; seems good for off-road + touring - Assembly quality a bit lacking; 2 screws missing, most quite loose (but easy fix...) - Frame welds are looking really nice - but the fork welds are spotty. They look like they'll take the abuse, but its not that pretty... - Fork also pretty heavy; 2.5 lbs is my guess *Edit* - Measured frame + fork together: actually very light for its purpose; 6.83 lbs frame AND fork together (56cm size, uncut steerer). This compares favourably, as even the 56 cm Surly LHT is 7.25 lbs, and the Cross Check weighs in at 7.07 lbs. All in all, pretty good for its versatility/ price.  I'll be doing an in-depth review if the frame by this weekend, so stay tuned! Pictures will be shown then too.