Fair Wheel Bikes Builds 9.9lb Flat-Bar Specialized Aethos Cruiser

Tucson, Arizona – Fair Wheel Bikes is making waves in the cycling world with a custom build that challenges conventional wisdom about bike weight and functionality. The shop recently unveiled a flat-bar Specialized Aethos weighing in at just under 10 pounds, a feat achieved not for racing or long-distance touring, but for leisurely cruising around town.

The project, spearheaded by Fair Wheel Bikes co-owner Jason Woznick, was born from a simple request: a lightweight, exotic bike perfect for urban exploration. “Someone came to us with a simple request that we couldn’t turn down: build an uber light weight hybrid to cruise downtown with,” the company stated on its blog. The result is a striking machine that prioritizes fun and a unique riding experience over traditional performance metrics.

Woznick anticipated some skepticism, acknowledging that the build’s specifications might raise eyebrows among weight-obsessed cyclists. “If you are already outraged, you likely aren’t alone,” he admitted in comments reported by VeloNews. However, he emphasized that the bike is fully functional and capable of handling everyday riding conditions. “This is a bike for someone who just wants to cruise around town taking in the sites on a super cool and very light weight bike,” Woznick explained.

The Aethos build features a carefully curated selection of high-end components. A Schmolke TLO low-rise bar is paired with an Extralite Hyperstem, while Leap Components wireless blip mounts and an Extralite Hyperplug contribute to the overall weight reduction. The bike utilizes a single Hope XCR Pro X2 brake, a deliberate choice given its intended use on flat terrain. A MCFK full carbon saddle and Carbon-Ti X-Clamp further refine the build, and a Grigion Carbonio T1000 crankset with a Carbon-Ti X-Single 34t chainring delivers efficient power transfer.

The wheelset, built around Tactic hubs laced with Berd spokes, exemplifies the attention to detail. Panaracer Agilest tires complete the rolling stock. A SRAM Red AXS E-tap 12-speed groupset provides precise shifting, and a 10-26 cassette offers a suitable gear range for urban riding. A Fair Wheel Bikes V3 Cage adds a finishing touch.

Despite its focus on weight savings, Woznick stressed that the bike is surprisingly robust. “We find custom parts and It’s obviously feathery, but it’s not overly delicate,” he said. He confirmed that the build can safely accommodate riders up to 200 pounds. The bike’s configuration, resembling a fixie, initially appears to lack a front brake. Woznick clarified that this is intentional, as a front brake is unnecessary without the balancing effect of pedal braking found on a true fixed-gear bicycle. “A front brake without the ability to balance with some form of rear brake isn’t a good idea,” he explained.

The final weight, including pedals, is 4.49 kg (9.90 lbs). Woznick addressed potential concerns about the listed weight, explaining that Fair Wheel Bikes provides a comprehensive figure that includes the TriRig Mercury pedals, which add 88.5 grams to the total. He emphasized that the goal wasn’t simply to create the lightest possible bike, but rather to build a machine tailored to the rider’s specific needs and aspirations.

The project highlights Fair Wheel Bikes’ commitment to unique and innovative builds. The shop encourages customers to collaborate on custom projects, offering expertise and access to a wide range of high-performance components. “If your looking to get a truly unique bike for yourself, then get ahold of us at the warehouse, and You can start planning the fine details of your dream bike with you,” the company stated.

This Aethos build isn’t about setting speed records or conquering challenging climbs. It’s a statement about the joy of cycling, the pursuit of lightweight design, and the possibilities of customization. It’s a bike built for cruising, for enjoying the scenery, and for turning heads – a testament to the artistry and engineering that can transform a simple bicycle into a rolling work of art.