German bikemaker’s Tout Terrain Silkroad II gives their expedition-proven heavy-duty touring bike with its integrated rack a more capable overhaul. In a day of strapping lightweight backpacking bags onto expensive carbon gravel bikes seeking adventure, the Silkroad II reminds us that steel frames, steel forks, solid racks, and an upright position are what dominate global expedition bike setup.
Tout Terrain Silkroad II integrated rack steel touring bike
The new Silkroad II isn’t some retro-grouch curmudgeon, it’s just the type of bike build to explore beyond the reach of credit card touring, or even cell phone coverage… “the globetrotter’s choice“. Tout Terrain has updated the classic Silkroad with new tubing, helpful new detailing, updated geometry with two wheel size options, and new forks. All of that expands the capability of an already world expedition-proven bike family.
Silkroad II – Tech details
The heart of the Silkroad II is a steel frame that now gets updated to Thermocrom tubing, which Tout Terrain says has a lower carbon footprint.
The new steel frame also gets updated geometry using a shorter fork & longer internally-butted headtube for a more upright riding position. Two new straight, tapered leg steel forks are also available either the lighter Allroad with rack & fender mounts or Expedition also with anything cage mounts, as well.
Then, there is the obvious, integrated welded-on stainless steel rear Expedition Rack II. This new version is lighter than ever, while maintaining the same 40kg load capacity. It also now adds an optional modular Ex-Rail system that bolts on to create a lower center of gravity and direct Quick-Lock3 mounting for quick release use of Ortlieb’s latest 3.1 panniers – with Tout Terrain being the first brand to integrate into their bike.
Beyond the fork & rack, the frame now includes four sets of water bottle mounts for more carrying capacity, plus internal wiring for dynamo-powered lighting.
The frame includes integrated frame lock mounts, and the option to add on the Ergo-Stop II Plus steerer stop to help stabilize a loaded bike when you park it.
The frame has a new split 3D dropout design that is belt-drive or derailleur compatible, using a 12×142 mm thru-axle for geared setups. It’s even available with a Rohloff hub or a Pinion bottom bracket mounted gearbox.
Tout Terrain Silkroad II – Pricing & availability
The Silkroad II is available in either 26″ or 27.5″ wheeled models and can be configured however you want to build it up on Tout Terrain’s webpage. Derailleur & Rohloff + Gates build can be configured and ordered immediately in four sizes (S, M, L & XL) with reasonable delivery times.
Silkroad II frame kits for derailleur or internally geared hub setups start at 1690€ with a steel fork. Complete bikes start at 2790€.
