A Stealth Open Upper Concept Gravel Rig

If you caught the story of our trip to Basel this summer, you’ll know that we really hit it off with the good people at Open Cycles. Curious capitalization and period placement aside, Open’s bikes – particularly Open 2.0 bikes – are a watchword for quality production (Portugal), forward-thinking concepts (an integrated one-piece cockpit with adaptable stem length – what??), and looks that say speed, speed, speed.

Upon our return from Switzerland, we eagerly awaited the arrival of our shop floor UPPER Concept, a model that sets the tone for future Open technology. Available in limited numbers, the UPPER Concept is a statement of intent, a look up the trail towards the new Open 2.0 models the brand will release over the next few months. We encourage you to visit the shop to see it for yourself, not just as a frame, but as a complete machine you can even pop a leg over.

Finished with a clear coat that gives a glimpse of the fine fibre work underneath, this decidedly stealth build covers familiar Regroup ground, with the flawless SRAM Red XPLR groupset spinning in cahoots with Zipp’s 303 XPLR S wheels. Notable diversions include a Form saddle and the bar tape, which is by Leh, a brand from Austin, Texas, that connects traditional leatherworking techniques with modern technology. Swing by Regroup to give it a squeeze.