The Wildergoose: A Revolutionary Take on Bikepacking
The world of cycling is abuzz with the release of Rufus Wenlock's Wildergoose, a steel hardtail designed with bikepacking in mind. This bike is a testament to Rufus' years of experience in competitive racing, and it's clear that he's poured his expertise into creating a machine that's both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
One of the most striking features of the Wildergoose is its tire clearance. With a stated maximum of 29 x 2.4", the bike almost doubles the industry standard of 4-6 mm of mud clearance. This is a game-changer for riders who want to tackle rough terrain without worrying about getting stuck in the mud. The offset seat tube also contributes to the bike's versatility, allowing for a steeper seat tube angle and a consistent rider position across different saddle heights.
The Wildergoose's design also takes into account the need for ample storage space. The large inner triangle, combined with a curved seat tube, provides room for three 750ml bottles and a half-frame bag. This is a significant improvement over traditional designs, which often struggle to accommodate larger bags. Additionally, the bike has mounts for top tube bags and dedicated M5 mounts above both dropouts, making it easy to customize to your needs.
Rufus' attention to detail is evident in the custom 3D-printed seat stay yoke, which is 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. Any debris that passes through the seat stay yoke naturally continues around the tire and is pushed out through the bottom of the frame.
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's UDH compatible and maxes out at a 40T chainring, with internal cable routing and a double port on either side of the downtube. The bike is available in two colors: Crimson Tide and Emerald Current, and frames are built to order with an estimated lead time of 8-10 weeks from the date of purchase.
In my opinion, the Wildergoose is a game-changer for bikepacking enthusiasts. It's a bike that combines functionality, aesthetics, and innovation, all while maintaining a competitive price point. Rufus has truly raised the bar with this one, and I can't wait to see what other surprises he has in store for us.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the attention to detail that Rufus has put into every aspect of the bike's design. From the 3D-printed seat stay yoke to the curved seat tube, every element has been carefully considered to ensure a smooth and efficient ride. This level of craftsmanship is a testament to Rufus' dedication to his craft, and it's clear that he's created something that will stand the test of time.
In my opinion, the Wildergoose is a must-have for any serious bikepacker. It's a bike that will take you anywhere you want to go, and it's built to last. So, if you're in the market for a new bike, I highly recommend giving the Wildergoose a try. You won't be disappointed!
