Independent Fabrication – Crown Jewel SSR
It’s been a while since I rode the kind of bike that you pedal, but this is one of my latest that I’m especially in love with. It’s an Independent Fabrication, Crown Jewel SSR. This one is Stainless Steel. I’m an old roadie who can certainly appreciate the fine qualities of carbon, aluminum, and titanium, but I feel especially attached to the qualities of steel in a bicycle.
The rear seat stays are not painted on this bike so a lot of people think it’s titanium when they see it. The ride quality is stiff but very compliant. It feels like it’s on rails when cornering (hate that overused term but it just does).
My grouppo of choice has always been Campagnolo. This time I chose the Record variety. Keeps me firmly planted in the hooks when shifting in sprint situations… yeah, because that still happens…
In any case, this bike needs to be photographed some more. It’s a real work of art. Independent Fabrication did a great job on the fit and finish. This bike is modeled after the dimensions of my race bike from 15+ years ago. All tubes and angles are the same.
Steel is Real
Dear Chris;
Beautiful bike! I am the proud owner of an 09 SSR and I love it I put Campy chorus on mine.. It too rails the corners We fly only first class on these babies. Enjoy !