You probably won’t hear many people complaining of too many graphics on the new bikes from Simpson Velorigs. Almost devoid of branding, the pastel colored frames will be the first product from Simpson Velorigs – a group of bicycle designers, engineers, and enthusiasts out of Southern California. Founded by Michael Simpson in 2012, the company is just about to release their first bike which will be a monocoque carbon fiber road bike with disc brakes. Simpson VR 1s will be offered as frameset+wheelset, or as complete builds.
Michael states that the company hopes to fill the niche between full custom builders like Argonaut or Calfee, and bikes directly off of the shelf in a bike store. To do this, Simpson receives their frames completely bare and offers semi-custom paint and graphics options with standard builds, as well as the option for full custom finishes. The result is a pretty unique looking disc road bike that will handle up to 28mm tires. Pricing is still being finalized, but they hope to have a Force 22 or Shimano Ulegra build for under $4k.
More details next…
According to Michael, the VR1 is their own design with the frame designed in California. Simpson own the molds for the frames which are produced in Asia. The company’s wheels however, are open mold designs that are offered by the same company that produces their frames. In the future though, Simpson is working on a 40mm deep tubeless, full carbon rim that should be available by Fall. Currently, carbon wheels are available with either VR1, Velocity, and White Industries disc hubs in standard QR front, and 135 QR rear to match the frame. Frames use BB30 or PF 30 bottom brackets, and are internally routed for either mechanical or electronic drivetrains with all the cables entering the head tube in a single hole. The internal routing also has built in seals to keep out the elements.
Pricing for the frameset, stem, and wheels starts at $2,350 while full builds range from $3,400-$5,300 based on the component choices. In both cases the stems are painted to match the frames out of their paint booth. Twenty standard options include white, gray, cream, or blue, with multiple graphic color options, and your choice of a number or S for the back of the seat post. All frames are painted with 12 speed Valspar automotive base and clear coats with cast vinyl graphics.
Simpson is still finalizing their production frames and bikes, but anyone interested in purchasing one can sign up for their mailing list and will receive 10% off their total build cost.
