Nov 28, 2017 | By Julia
Award-winning East London bike makers Donhou Bicycles have just unveiled a bold new custom build, and a fresh milestone in their manufacturing methods: the DSS3 CX/Gravel steel bike, launched just last week, features a gorgeous steel frame that effectively pushes cycling into the modern era. The new build, which features a 3D printed steel seat lug, is already generating serious buzz among cycling fanatics for pushing the envelope on custom-made steel.
As the third release in shop owner Tom Donhou’s Signature Series, the DSS3 CX is clearly the most advanced edition so far, with state-of-the-art bike technology that opens up new geometries without sacrificing aesthetics. According to Donhou reps, the 3D printed seat lug allowed its makers to use a heavily ovalized top tube for ride characteristics matched with comfortable shouldering, thus setting the seat stays further apart for maximum tire clearance and mud shedding. The custom-made steel lug also means that Donhou could re-route the rear derailleur cable to be entirely internal, which enables less rubbing against the frame and an easier cleaning job overall, in addition to a more streamlined frame.
As a mix of the “finest steel tubes” from Reynolds and Columbus, the DSS3 CX’s tube set is finely tuned for a responsive ride that balances both weight and durability, according to Donhou. Featuring thru axle technology and flat mounted disc brakes, the frame also boasts a lack of brake bridge, a key feature in reducing the buildup of mud. “Chemically treated internally and finished with stainless braze on’s, including dead ended bottle bosses, makes sure your frame stands up to whatever the climate can throw at it,” tout the makers of this impressive frame.
As an advanced racer model that nevertheless displays a more casual and adventurous guise, the DSS3 CX is predicted to excel in racing contexts, as well as when bikepacking or audax-style rides with lighter baggage. According to Donhou’s onlookers, this “thoroughbred stallion form the Donhou stables” is guaranteed to become “a pedigree favorite for riders wanting a hardcore ‘cross bike that can also be taken on serious backroad adventures.”
Needless to say, the reviews have so far been overwhelmingly positive, garnering some well deserved attention for the new 3D printed lug. Donhou’s DSS3 CX prototype has already secured several prestigious show prizes, most notably Best CX Bike 2017 at this year’s North American Handmade Bicycle Show (NAHBS). The custom frame has also won a considerable amount of podium places at various CX races. The final verdict? The DSS3 CX is “at heart, both a CX race machine and a hardcore gravel rider.”
Posted in 3D Printing Application
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