Why Cycles knows how to grab the attention of the cycling media – just add a banana. Only this time, it’s not some wild 3D printed banana holster, it’s the latest version of their R+ gravel road bike.
The R+ v3 uses the same titanium construction of previous R+ models, but this time it gets some important updates.
In terms of the tubing itself, the new frame offer an oversized seat tube above the BB junction which is said to improve pedaling efficiency while also adding a bit of compliance. There are updated graphics as well.
Out back, the frames now offer a 160mm flat mount disc brake tab for a lighter and cleaner disc set up. No adapter for a 160mm rotor means a bit less weight overall.
One of the biggest updates comes in under the top tube with more accessory mounts for more stuff. That could mean a standard bottle cage in the back, and a single, uh, banana holster up front. Or you could get your favorite custom frame bag builder to make you a bolt-on frame bag using all of the braze ons as mounts. Whatever you choose, you’ll have the ability to carry more gear on the bike and less on your back for future rides. You’ll also still have the ability to mount racks, fenders, and more.
Without all the gear the bike is even more stunning and should be a welcome improvement over the previous versions. The R+ is still optimized for 700 x 40mm tires, but will fit up to a 46mm or 27.5 x 2.1″. Pricing for a complete bike starts at $4,849 for a 1x SRAM Rival build kit, and bikes are available now.
