Since we've started producing the Saga touring frame, we have gotten to hear a lot of great stories from adventurous folks regarding where they've taken their Sagas. We love hearing them all. It is the excitement in their words and voices that encourage us to keep on making Soma frames.
We also like hearing feedback on our products as well. One of the early suggestions was to do a disc version. That idea was not something that didn't cross our mind early on with the Saga, but general touring wisdom said having mechanical trouble with a disc brake would be more problematic and likely than having problems with cantilevers. That still holds true somewhat, but it hasn't stopped people from asking. More and more enthusiasts are tackling terrain where disc brakes would definitely serve them better. One rider shared that he popped a tube because his rim overheated due to extended braking on a long descent. That would never happen with a disc-equipped machine.
So here we are. Feast your eyes on the first prototype in all it caramelized orange glory. (Color and design details not finalized, though geometry will probably be the same as the current Saga.). We have no production date for these, but it will definitely be part of the 2014 line.
 |
| A Clarence alt bar on a tourer? Why not? |
 |
| Whoops. A cable guide on the fork would be nice. |
Oh, that's nice. Might be my next bike, not that there's any reason to retire the Double Cross.
ReplyDeleteBy the way, what are those grips? If my eyes don't deceive, they look like lock-on cork.
Jonathan
they origin 8. they aren't cork....i think it is a kind of foam.
ReplyDeleteWow, that's fantastic news as I'm starting to cozy up to the idea of disc brakes. Also, love the color and love the kickstand plate. Would love to see these available sooner rather than later.
ReplyDeleteWhy not use a Clarence bar on a tourer? Because after an hour your hands would be numb. Better to use your wonderful June Bug, which gives you six comfortable places to grip and lets you put your back and shoulders into the climbs.
ReplyDelete@Wes -- While I am sure many will agree with your assessment, I know a gal who after touring 10,000k on a drop bar swapped it with our Sparrow Bar...she says it's been the most comfortable change she's made to her Saga.
ReplyDeleteGreat to see the Saga becoming disc compatible.
ReplyDeleteI hope to see this bike in some neutral color options.
The more classic and stripped the frame is, the uglier the Ahead stem becomes.
ReplyDeleteIf you added a rocker dropout with a belt drive opening, like those from Paragon Machine works, you could enter a whole new market of people building up internal hub bikes. Right now such a frame is available only from high priced foreign or semi-custom boutique companies.
ReplyDeleteStill waiting :( Any idea when they might be available?
ReplyDelete