The Sufur Wildergoose: A Revolutionary Bikepacking Steel Hardtail
Rufus Wenlock's Wildergoose is a game-changer in the world of bikepacking. This steel hardtail is designed to tackle anything from the Tour Divide to backyard overnighters, and it's packed with innovative features that set it apart from the competition.
One of the key features of the Wildergoose is its tire clearance. While the industry standard is generally considered to be 4-6 mm of mud clearance at the maximum stated tire size, the Wildergoose almost doubles that at its stated 29 x 2.4" max. This means that riders can tackle even the muddiest trails with ease.
Another notable feature is the custom 3D-printed seat stay yoke, which is intentionally placed at the tightest point in the frame. This design encourages mud and debris to build up higher in the frame, away from the drivetrain, where it's easier to clear. The curved seat tube also follows the radius of the rear tire, leaving no shelf for mud to collect on.
The Wildergoose also boasts a large inner triangle, which provides more room for frame bags than a conventional straight post. This means that riders can carry more gear and stay out on the trail longer. The bike also has mounts for top tube bags and dedicated M5 mounts above both dropouts, giving riders even more options for customizing their setup.
In terms of performance, the Wildergoose is designed to have similar ride characteristics regardless of saddle height. This is achieved through the use of an offset seat tube, which allows for a steeper seat tube angle. This not only keeps the rider position consistent across the size range but also makes the bike more versatile and adaptable to different riding styles.
The Wildergoose is made of VeloSpec tubing by Rufus in New Zealand and features a BSA 73mm threaded bottom bracket, 27.2mm seatpost, flat mount brakes, BOOST spacing, and a 52mm chainline. It also maxes out at a 40T chainring and features internal cable routing with a double port on either side of the downtube.
Overall, the Sufur Wildergoose is a must-have for any bikepacking enthusiast. With its innovative design, exceptional performance, and customizable features, it's a bike that's sure to turn heads and take you to new heights on the trail.
