We’ve been following Argonaut’s Ben Farver since his launch, with an in depth look at how they make the bikes and a full review of the gorgeous road bike. Now, after dialing in the process further, he’s launching his second model and we’re stoked to see it jumping on all the right bandwagons.
BIKERUMOR: What are your main building materials?
BEN: Carbon fiber, with aluminum and titanium dropouts.
BIKERUMOR: What’s new with your company since NAHBS last year?
BEN: Oh man… so much! We’ve even further refined and developed our layup patterns to more accurately and specifically meet customer’s needs. We’ve also developed what I’m calling a gravel racer. The gravel racer is a variation on our current road bike, but with disc brakes and slightly more stable geometry.
BIKERUMOR: Any killer custom bike builds in that time?
BEN: Here are some shots of the first gravel racer we’ve made. I’m really digging everything about this bike, especially the wheel setup. Pictured are a set of ENVE 29er XC tubeless rims built up on Chris King R45 disc hubs. Running tubeless 28’s is a dream on gravel.
BIKERUMOR: Say a customer gives you free reign, where do you draw your inspiration for the best projects?
BEN: Man… free reign is tough. I really try to listen to customers and pick out one or two things they’re trying to accomplish and focus on that. My bikes are really purpose specific – race style road bikes. I try to picture how they’re going to use the bike and build around that in terms of both the frame and the components; ie., climbing, sprinting, all day riding.
BIKERUMOR: What are you building this year that’ll draw a crowd?
BEN: I think the gravel racer will turn some heads, although I’m sure it won’t be the only disc road bike at the show. I’m also really excited to show the bike I made for one of my female brand ambassadors. I want to tell people about why an Argonaut is a great solution for all riders – not just men.
BIKERUMOR: Scenario: NAHBS introduces a new category called Mashups, pairing two completely different builders to make one bike. Who’s the yin to your yang, and what kind of bike do you think you’d build?
BEN: I love Geekhouse bikes, and I’ve always been a huge fan of Curtis Inglis’ work. I’m not sure what a collaboration with either of those shops would look like, but it sure would be fun!
