This Scarab Paramo is the first to come out of the Savile Road workshop, and the perfect example of why we love custom bikes. Now, custom bikes are a luxury of course, but the value proposition here is incredible. This particular build comes in under $7,000 as shown, shares much of its build kit with $8,000 carbon gravel bikes, and weighs in barely a pound over similarly equipped carbon bikes of the same size. All this in addition to being hand-crafted to custom dimensions and finished with a one-of-a-kind paint job! Check out the gallery below for more details on that.
The magic here is in the spec. By selecting each component with an eye toward both budget and functionality, we are able to make 1+1=3 so to speak.
For this build, we chose a SRAM “mullet” setup with Force controls and brakes mated to an X01 drivetrain. Force levers offer more adjustability than Rival, including a brake pad contact adjustment, as well as an upgraded caliper for more confidence and control in the rough conditions the bike is intended for. The X01 derailleur features a shorter cage than other Eagle AXS options to keep it protected in tough terrain, and the X01 cassette saves considerable weight.
For wheels we opted for the Roval C 38, a great value at $1,100 a set. Deep enough to offer an aero edge, compliant enough for off-road riding and wide enough to support modern road and gravel tires, the C 38 works well for a broad range of applications. Boasting a durable and upgradeable DT Swiss Ratchet hub and a lifetime warranty on the rims, these are wheels you can count on for long-term performance with a lower than ever barrier to entry.
The bike rolls on 38c Vittoria Terreno Dry tires. The low-profile rolling tread with progressive lugging toward the shoulders is ideal for the all-road type of riding this customer is planning to do, and the high thread-count supple casing is unrivaled at this price point–under $70 per tire
Finally, we have a nice carbon cockpit, again with an emphasis on value. The Zipp Service Course SL seatpost offers much of the upside of other carbon options, such as weight savings and vibration damping, but uses a fused alloy head and hardware and comes in at about half the cost of an Enve post. The Roval Terra bars compliment the customers fit requirements perfectly, with a shallow drop and conservative flare encouraging proper use of the bar when riding off road, and a short reach enabling the use of a longer stem and keeping open the possibility of bringing the position even further in if need be.
This project is the perfect example of how a custom bike often ends up something greater than the sum of its parts. A legacy frame, tailored specifically to one rider and made from some of the highest quality steel in the industry. Thoughtfully specced, and ready to ride in comfort and with confidence. Built to last with a parts list to match, and all without breaking the bank.
