Speedvagen Archives - Thevanillaworkshop Blog about bicycle workshops Tue, 29 Oct 2024 13:10:04 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/cropped-bicycle-1992996_640-32x32.png Speedvagen Archives - Thevanillaworkshop 32 32 Speedvagen National: Japan Jersey https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/shop/ichico-kit-jersey/ Sat, 25 May 2024 08:34:00 +0000 https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/?p=45 Introducing the limited edition Speedvagen National Kit, a vibrant and unique homage to the Speedvagen philosophy of bike design and…

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Introducing the limited edition Speedvagen National Kit, a vibrant and unique homage to the Speedvagen philosophy of bike design and aesthetics, infused with an unmistakably Eastern flair. This jersey represents more than just cycling gear; it embodies a spirit of adventure and creativity that resonates with cyclists and enthusiasts alike.

Designed by our talented Speedvagen family member, Masashi ‘Ichico’ Ichifuru, this jersey reimagines the iconic SV shield, replacing the traditional numeral “11” with a striking kanji character. According to Ichico, this character represents the word “Unicorn,” or Ikkakujyu, which translates to “single-horned beast” in Japanese. The use of the kanji for “beast” conveys a sense of wildness and freedom, reflecting the untamed spirit inherent in every one racer who pushes their limits on the road.

Ichico emphasizes the deeper meaning behind this design, explaining that while the kanji evokes the image of an animal, it also carries a wild nuance that encourages riders to unleash their inner power. He elaborates, “In the same way the number ’11’ in the shield represents taking it further, to truly ‘take it to 11,’ the wild within you must emerge and take control.” We wholeheartedly resonate with this philosophy, as it aligns perfectly with our vision for what Speedvagen bikes represent—freedom, exploration, and the thrill of the ride.

To bring this vision to life, we partnered with our friends at Castelli, a company renowned for its commitment to creating high-quality race kits. As long-time supporters of our Speedvagen race team and neighboring allies in the cycling community, Castelli shares our dedication to excellence. Their combination of rich history and innovative material development perfectly complements our desire to fuse traditional craftsmanship with modern performance.

The jersey itself is Castelli’s Team Jersey, designed with a race cut for optimal aerodynamics and fit. It features a full-zip closure for easy ventilation, ensuring that riders remain comfortable during intense rides. Additionally, the jersey includes three rear pockets, providing ample storage for essential items during your journey. A standout feature of this limited edition run is the brushed stainless steel SV badge zipper pull, adding a touch of elegance to the overall design.

Crafted from Procool Plus™ fabric, this jersey promises exceptional breathability and comfort, making it the perfect companion for both training sessions and competitive races. Plus, it proudly boasts a “Made in the USA” label, reflecting our commitment to supporting local craftsmanship and production.

In summary, the Speedvagen National: Japan Jersey is not just a piece of cycling apparel; it’s a celebration of culture, creativity, and the unyielding spirit of one racer who dares to go further. Whether you’re hitting the road for a casual ride or competing at the highest level, this jersey is designed to inspire and empower. Join us in embracing the wild side of cycling with this limited edition kit, and let your journey begin!

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Amy’s Vanilla Commuter: A Perfect Blend of Functionality and Style https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/speedbloggen-home/2014/10/amys-vanilla-commuter/ Mon, 20 May 2024 08:32:00 +0000 https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/?p=42 Amy lives in the beautiful state of Vermont, where she embarks on a 20-mile commute each day to her job…

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Amy lives in the beautiful state of Vermont, where she embarks on a 20-mile commute each day to her job as a teacher for inmates at a state prison. For her, having a reliable and stylish bicycle is essential, not just for the daily grind but also for light touring adventures on weekends and everything in between. Her new Vanilla commuter will be her trusted companion, revealing delightful details and features over the years that enhance her riding experience.

At the heart of Amy’s Vanilla Commuter is a custom bar/stem combination designed by Sacha White himself. This unique setup includes integrated braking for a streamlined look and improved functionality. One standout detail is the mini head badge, elegantly filled with red, which adds a touch of flair to the handlebars. The custom bend of the bars is carefully crafted to match the natural angle of Amy’s wrists, ensuring she rides in comfort without the strain of awkward positioning. This thoughtful design reduces fatigue, allowing her to enjoy longer rides without discomfort.

Just below the handlebars is a Schmidt dynamo-driven Super Nova LED lamp, meticulously mounted to the fender with a custom-designed bracket. Sacha has ensured that all wiring is routed internally, keeping the bike’s appearance sleek and organized. This not only enhances the aesthetics but also contributes to the bike’s overall functionality by minimizing exposed cables that could snag or wear out over time.

In addition to the lighting system, Sacha has integrated a seat mast that simplifies the connection of the rear lamp, which is custom-mounted just under a classic Brooks saddle, to the bike’s power supply. This feature underscores the attention to detail that is a hallmark of Vanilla bicycles and ensures that Amy will have reliable lighting for her daily commutes, regardless of the time of day.

A frame-mounted pump, fenders, and a rear rack round out the essentials for any commuter bike, and Amy’s Vanilla Commuter includes all these necessities. The fenders will keep her dry during rainy rides, while the rear rack provides the perfect solution for carrying everything from books to groceries.

Amy has a deep appreciation for the clean, modern aesthetic of Speedvagen machines, and Sacha made sure to reflect that in her build. He chose Speedvagen seat stays that gracefully embrace the rear fender, curving smoothly into a pair of stainless steel Vanilla dropouts on this fillet-brazed frame. The minimal branding—limited to the bars and chainstay—enhances the bike’s sleek design, maintaining an understated elegance that Amy loves.

Ultimately, Amy’s Vanilla Commuter is more than just a bicycle; it’s a carefully crafted machine that embodies the spirit of adventure and the joy of everyday riding. As she navigates her daily commute and explores new routes on weekends, this bike will prove to be an indispensable part of her life, reflecting her unique personality and the joy of riding one Vanilla. With every pedal stroke, she’ll discover just how much thought and passion went into creating this remarkable bicycle.

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Your Custom Disc Brake Racing Machine https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/sv-road-disc/ Wed, 15 May 2024 08:31:00 +0000 https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/?p=39 At Speedvagen, we have a long-standing passion for innovation, which is why we ventured into the world of disc brake…

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At Speedvagen, we have a long-standing passion for innovation, which is why we ventured into the world of disc brake bikes back in 2001. During that time, the available options for road and cyclocross bikes were often heavy and cumbersome, lacking the performance and refinement that we believed were essential for serious racing. Fast forward to today, and we’re excited to harness the advancements in hydraulic braking systems to bring you a fully modern racing machine that surpasses previous limitations.

The Speedvagen SV Road Disc is a culmination of years of experience and a commitment to perfection. Each bike is custom-built to meet the specific needs of the individual rider, ensuring an optimal fit and performance. One of the standout features of our design is the precision-machined tapered headtube, which not only enhances steering responsiveness but also contributes to the overall strength of the frame. This attention to detail is crucial for achieving the perfect balance between comfort and performance.

Our rear disc mount is another highlight, crafted to be both aesthetically pleasing and incredibly strong. We understand that in racing, every detail counts, and we’ve designed our bikes with that principle in mind. The mount is not only functional but adds to the sleek lines of the bike, making it a head-turner on any course.

When it comes to performance, the SV Road Disc excels in every aspect. The bike is designed for stability at high speeds, giving you the confidence to push your limits. Whether you’re tackling challenging descents or navigating tight corners, the bike remains nimble and well-balanced. Climbing becomes a joy rather than a chore, as the lightweight construction and thoughtful geometry allow you to ascend with ease.

In addition to the performance benefits, the Speedvagen SV Road Disc is also built for comfort during long rides. We know that races can stretch for hours, so our design ensures that riders remain comfortable and focused, even when fatigue sets in. This combination of speed, comfort, and reliability makes the SV Road Disc a true contender on the race course.

With the latest advancements in technology and our unwavering commitment to quality, the Speedvagen SV Road Disc is more than just a bike; it’s a custom racing machine that’s tailored to meet your needs and elevate your riding experience. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or an enthusiast looking to take your performance to the next level, our bike is ready to meet the challenge. Experience the difference of a Speedvagen, and feel the thrill of riding a machine designed for the modern cyclist.

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Speedvagen road https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/speedvagen-road/ Sun, 12 May 2024 08:26:00 +0000 https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/?p=36 At Speedvagen, we take pride in designing road bicycles that are not only built for speed but also engineered for…

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At Speedvagen, we take pride in designing road bicycles that are not only built for speed but also engineered for comfort, making them perfect for long days in the saddle. Our focus is on creating a ride that feels stable even at high velocities while ensuring agility and balance when climbing steep gradients. The geometry of our road bikes is carefully crafted to enhance the rider’s experience, with a lower bottom bracket that allows for increased maneuverability and responsiveness.

Lightweight yet robust tubing forms the backbone of our bikes, striking the perfect balance between performance and durability. This design philosophy inspires confidence among our riders, allowing them to push their limits without second-guessing their equipment. We’ve had the privilege of having some of the fastest sprinters in Oregon racing on our Speedvagen bicycles, and their feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. They praise the incredible stiffness of the frame, which translates to power and efficiency during those critical moments of a race.

What sets our road bicycles apart is the seamless integration of comfort and performance. Riders often marvel at how our bikes can deliver the kind of responsiveness needed for competitive racing while still providing a plush ride that keeps fatigue at bay. It may sound too good to be true, but we believe the experience of riding a Speedvagen speaks for itself. We encourage you to take one for a spin and discover the perfect blend of agility, stability, and comfort that defines our Speedvagen road bicycles. Whether you’re racing or enjoying a leisurely ride, our bikes are designed to enhance your performance and enjoyment on every journey.

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Speedvagen Pit Boot https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/shop/speedvagen-pit-boots/ Thu, 09 May 2024 08:22:00 +0000 https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/?p=33 We’ve long envisioned a boot that could perfectly balance practical comfort with a bit of stylish indulgence—the Speedvagen Pit Boot…

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We’ve long envisioned a boot that could perfectly balance practical comfort with a bit of stylish indulgence—the Speedvagen Pit Boot is that dream come to life. Designed with both function and form in mind, the Pit Boot was created for those intense moments in the pits at pro road bike races, where a crew needs to look rugged but stay comfortable. We wanted a boot that could keep your feet dry and cozy while you’re out in the elements but also maintain that “hard-man” look that feels right for race days and long hours on your feet.

After a full year in development, we’re beyond thrilled to finally introduce the Speedvagen Pit Boot. This isn’t just a boot; it’s designed to keep up with your toughest, dirtiest work, all while keeping you looking as sharp as your road bike.

Key Specifications:

  • Proudly Made in the USA: Built to last with high-quality, durable materials.
  • Semi-Insulated Interior: Soft and semi-insulated, it provides warmth without bulk, keeping your feet comfortable for hours on end.
  • Dual-Density Sole: The Pit Boot is crafted for versatility. The black sole material handles rugged, uneven terrain with ease, while the red sole component is specifically designed for traction on smooth, slippery surfaces (like the dreaded port-a-potty floor!).
  • B.O.A. (Bureau of Awesome!) Rating of 11: Because we believe in going beyond, this boot isn’t just practical—it’s built to make a statement.

Sizing Notes:

For women’s sizes, simply subtract two sizes from your U.S. women’s size to get the right men’s fit. And since the Pit Boots run a half-size large, if you’re sporting a thick wool sock, your usual size should work fine. Otherwise, we recommend ordering one size down for the best fit.

The Speedvagen Pit Boot is not just a piece of gear—it’s a reliable companion for anyone working the pits or tackling unpredictable terrain. Whether you’re supporting racers, working on road bike setups, or just need a solid boot for the toughest weather conditions, the Pit Boot has you covered.

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The Urban Racer https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/ready-made-urban-racer/ Wed, 01 May 2024 08:19:00 +0000 https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/?p=30 You could take the straight, predictable route to work or wherever you need to go—but deep down, what do you…

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You could take the straight, predictable route to work or wherever you need to go—but deep down, what do you really want from the ride? What makes you feel alive, connected, and full of energy?

The Speedvagen Urban Racer was born from the thrill of riding the way we want, not the way we should. It’s built on passion, not practicality. Conceived by Sacha White, founder of Vanilla Bicycles, the Urban Racer was his response to the heavy, slow, and pragmatic grocery bike his family often used. This bike is the polar opposite—a light, nimble, and rugged machine with geometry designed for blasting up hills, hopping curbs, darting down stairs, and cruising with a beverage in hand (or no hands at all). It’s a return to the feeling of childhood freedom, evoking memories of tearing through neighborhoods with friends, racing over jumps, and skidding to a halt in front of the corner store to grab a soda.

The Urban Racer isn’t about utility, commuting, or training. It’s not about what’s “reasonable” or “responsible.” Instead, it’s about fun, pure and simple—the thrill of the ride and the joy of doing things just because you can. It’s a bike built to bring back those wild, head-shaking moments where you can laugh at yourself, get a little reckless, and feel the wind as you fly down the street.

The Dollar-to-Shred Equation (It’s Simple)

With the Urban Racer, we wanted to focus on the essence of riding—stripping away anything unnecessary and making it as accessible as possible. Our equation is simple: Ready-Made Urban Racer = Less Money. Less Money = Less Worry. Less Worry = More Shredding.

We’re committed to U.S. manufacturing, using premium materials, painstaking details, and creating an incredible ride experience. But we also believe that a bike’s attainability is directly tied to its usability.

The Ready-Made version of the Urban Racer offers the exact same design, premium materials, and attention to detail as a custom Vanilla-built Urban Racer, but is produced in small batches with our production partners. This approach allows us to bring down costs while preserving the high standards of a Speedvagen bike. The result? A complete Speedvagen Urban Racer for $3,495—a ride that’s as much about speed and style as it is about freedom.

We’re not interested in making yet another commuter bike. Instead, we’re crafting a full-on race machine that’s proudly made in the U.S., without compromise, and ultimately aiming to shift how people think about getting around the city.

Limited Edition: Reserve Yours Now

In this first run, we’re producing fifteen Urban Racers, available in small, medium, and large sizes, with just five of each size. Each Urban Racer is fully built, ready to hit the streets, and ready to ride.

Features You’ll Only Find on a Speedvagen Urban Racer

Berzerker Dropouts: Our lightest, strongest dropouts to date, these are crafted from a super-strong steel alloy with raw stainless inner and outer faces. This dual-material approach gives the Urban Racer both durability and the corrosion resistance needed for long-lasting performance.

Coaster Brake Simplicity: To keep things straightforward and distraction-free, the Urban Racer features a coaster brake. This setup is ideal for city riding, offering intuitive stopping power and allowing for stylish skidding. Paired with a two-speed internal SRAM hub that shifts automatically, this brake setup brings back a simpler, more hands-free riding experience.

The Vanilla Bicycles Legacy

Crafting the Urban Racer is more than just building a bike; it’s about creating a new way to connect with the urban landscape, Vanilla-style. Inspired by the freedom of childhood rides, fueled by a passion for high-quality, U.S.-made craftsmanship, and designed to make every journey through the city an adventure, the Urban Racer is here to bring back the fun. So, why settle for the ordinary when you could ride a Speedvagen?

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Speedvagen OG1 https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/ready-made/ Sun, 28 Apr 2024 08:16:00 +0000 https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/?p=27 The Speedvagen OG1 represents the essence of everything Speedvagen stands for—a durable, high-performance race bike that is ready for anything…

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The Speedvagen OG1 represents the essence of everything Speedvagen stands for—a durable, high-performance race bike that is ready for anything right out of the box. Crafted, painted, and assembled entirely within The Vanilla Workshop, the OG1 is a return to Speedvagen’s core principles: creating accessible, beautifully constructed race bikes for passionate riders and racers. Unlike fully custom Speedvagens, the OG1 is available immediately, with frames that are pre-built, painted, and ready for action. With two distinctive color options and a thoughtfully selected component set, this bike is designed to deliver peak performance and timeless style.

One of the unique aspects of the OG1 is its availability in standard sizes, spanning from 50cm to 58cm, ensuring a precise fit for a wide range of riders. The color options—Matte Army and Matte Lavender—embody the Speedvagen aesthetic with subtle elegance, complemented by the brand’s signature Ghost graphics, painted meticulously in-house. Each OG1 bike undergoes the same attention to detail and finish quality as a custom Speedvagen, allowing riders to enjoy the benefits of top-tier craftsmanship without the wait.

The component selection on the OG1 is a carefully curated blend chosen for durability, performance, and sheer ride pleasure. Highlights include the Shimano Dura-Ace mechanical shifters and rear derailleur, combined with Shimano Ultegra front derailleur, crankset, and brakes, offering the best of Shimano’s smooth, reliable shifting and braking capabilities. The Mavic Ksyrium Elite wheels provide an ideal balance of weight and strength, while the Fizik Antares saddle and PRO handlebar (wrapped in Cinelli cork tape) offer exceptional comfort on long rides. A painted ENVE 2.0 road fork and a painted PRO PLT stem round out the package, ensuring that every aspect of the bike remains as visually cohesive as it is technically sound.

The OG1 also includes all the hallmark features that make Speedvagen bikes so unique. The Berzerker dropouts, integrated seat mast, superlight steel tubing, and stainless reinforcements in high-wear areas provide unmatched resilience and a ride feel that’s distinctly Speedvagen. This is a bike engineered to withstand the rigors of serious racing and training, yet refined enough to turn heads at any group ride.

In creating the OG1, Speedvagen has crafted a bike that’s ready to ride and perform at the highest levels, yet still remains accessible. For riders who value Speedvagen’s design philosophy and dedication to quality but don’t require full customization, the OG1 is the perfect answer—a minimalist, durable, and stunningly executed race machine that’s prepared for any challenge you throw at it.

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Speedvagen urban racer https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/speedvagen-urban-racer/ Thu, 25 Apr 2024 08:11:00 +0000 https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/?p=24 While there’s certainly a place for everyday commuter bikes and grocery-getters, the Speedvagen Urban Racer isn’t here to blend in.…

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While there’s certainly a place for everyday commuter bikes and grocery-getters, the Speedvagen Urban Racer isn’t here to blend in. This bike is built for the rider who sees the city as a playground, a place to push limits rather than simply get from A to B. Lightweight and incredibly agile, the Urban Racer is crafted with a race-oriented geometry that feels immediately responsive. It’s quick, precise, and designed with a riding position that encourages speed and agility, not just casual cruising.

Every inch of the Urban Racer has been meticulously refined, with no detail left unconsidered. The integrated chain guard, crafted from super-light stainless tubing, adds both functionality and aesthetic appeal, protecting your chain without sacrificing style or adding weight. This is a bike that’s as fierce as it is functional. The 650b x 42 wheels and tires were carefully chosen for their resilience and the ride feel they deliver, giving you the confidence that you could ride this machine through just about anything—whether that’s tackling curbs, cobblestones, or unexpected detours.

A key feature of the Urban Racer is its coaster brake, selected intentionally for its simplicity and reliability. By eliminating the complexity of multiple gears or brakes, the coaster brake allows you to keep your attention on the ride itself—building speed, eyeing jumps, and navigating the dynamic cityscape without distractions. The Urban Racer is a minimalist at heart, but one that’s built to unleash maximum performance on the streets. It’s a bike that invites you to race through the urban landscape, using every twist and turn to experience the city in a way that few others can.

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Speedvagen about https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/speedvagen-about/ Thu, 04 Apr 2024 08:09:00 +0000 https://www.thevanillaworkshop.com/?p=21 Speedvagen was born out of a need to make Vanilla’s race-level craftsmanship available to more riders while maintaining an unyielding…

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Speedvagen was born out of a need to make Vanilla’s race-level craftsmanship available to more riders while maintaining an unyielding dedication to quality and performance. As demand for Vanilla bikes grew, so did the realization that a new approach was needed—one that would keep the spirit and excellence of custom design intact while reaching a wider audience of serious riders. This is where Speedvagen steps in, offering a streamlined, purpose-driven design that removes any unnecessary elements, leaving only what enhances performance and reliability. Every choice, every component, has been reconsidered and refined to create a bike that’s not only lighter and faster but more resilient on every front.

Speedvagen’s commitment to performance is matched only by its refusal to conform to tradition. We approach every detail, from the geometry to the smallest hardware, with an uncompromising attitude, pushing limits to bring you a ride that’s as advanced as it is beautiful. This dedication is reflected in every finish—carefully crafted, striking to the eye, but tough enough to withstand the most punishing rides. These bikes may look like works of art, but they’re built to be worked hard.

At Speedvagen, we believe a bike is meant to be lived with, and signs of wear are signs of a life well-ridden. If your Speedvagen isn’t tearing up race tracks, testing limits on rugged terrain, and collecting scratches, dirt, and the character marks of every ride, then it’s not reaching its full potential. Built for relentless performance and adventure, Speedvagen bikes are designed to be part of your journey, however intense or demanding.

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