There are probably more people in the world that know of Chris Chance through his iconic Fat Chance brand, but like many builders – it started with the road. Back in the late 70’s, Chris apparently honed his frame building skills on the skinny tire set before introducing Fat City cycles to the world. It wasn’t until 1991 that Fat City introduced the Slim Chance – one of the first production tig welded steel road bikes.
Now with Fat Chance cycles back to offering steel mountain bikes, it was apparently time to see the rebirth of another legend. 25 years later it’s time for the new Slim Chance…
When it came time to give the Slim Chance a new look, Chris wanted a modern steel road bike with larger tubes and the option for a carbon fork, but something that still had the soul of the original. Produced through a collaboration with Stinner Frameworks who is building the bike in the U.S. to Chris’ design while the two are working together to streamline production.
Built from True Temper Ox Platinum steel, the frames will be offered in stock sizing with a size specific tubing selection. Initially each frame will be offered only with a color matched ENVE 2.0 carbon fork in one of 4 hues inspired by the original, but Fat Chance plans to offer a segmented steel Yo Road soon.
Most of the details on the prototype above will see production including the 68mm threaded bottom bracket, 44mm head tube, and pump peg, but the cool little down tube cable stops apparently have to be changed which is a bummer because they look pretty slick.
The frames also feature a laser cut stainless head tube badge, hooded dropouts and clearance for 28mm tires. Cable routing is set up for mechanical shifting with eTap, Di2, and EPS options available.
Bikes will also be offered with color matched alloy or ENVE carbon stems for an additional charge.
Details from Fat Chance:
- Available as a frame, ENVE carbon fork and Chris King headset package for $2295.
- Segmented steel Yo Road Fork will be available as an option in the coming weeks.
- Painted stem upgrade options; Carbon (ENVE) for $355, Alloy for $250.
- Choice of mechanical or electronic shifting options at no extra charge.
- 4 colors inspired some of our favorite Slim’s from the past; Blue, Pearl White, Pale Yellow and Red.
- Framesets ship in 4-6 weeks, complete bikes in 6-8 weeks.
