Masi always finds ways to turn heads at the Sea Otter Classic. Two years ago it was with its carbon CXRC with a Lauf suspension fork and Di2 XTR drivetrain. Last year it was a steel bikepacking build with matching camping cup.
At the 2018 Sea Otter Classic, Masi impressed with its eye-catching finishes and specs on its steel CXGR gravel bike and CXRC carbon cyclocross bike. The company also updated its Speciale Randonneur 650B build. We profile these three new bikes below.
Masi CXRC Expert Carbon Cyclocross Bike
The $3,200 carbon CXRC Expert returns with the same shiny solar chrome scheme, and with its reflective glitter outfit, it’s hard to miss.
But hiding below the bold frame is componentry that might be more eye-catching to the tech geeks. The Shimano Ultegra RX805-GS clutch-based rear derailleur and Ultegra R8000 components offer the latest in dual chain ring chain security. The Praxis Zyante crankset returns for 2019, but 3T wheels replace the NoTubes Grail hoops that were on the 2018 model.
Steel CXGR Supremo Gravel Bike
The 4130 double butted steel CXGR Supremo, with its metallic blue finish was also a head-turner.
The $1,900 bike swaps last year’s Ultegra for new Shimano 105 R7000 and includes a KS E30-i dropper post and top-mounted lever for 65mm of travel. The bike also comes with flared handlebars to aid in riders' adventures.
The CXGR is capable of rolling on 700c and 650b wheels. It’ll accept 700c x 45mm or 650b x 2.1" tires.
Speciale Randonneur 650B
Want to do an overnight but prefer to stay old school? The steel Speciale Randonneur 650b also receives new R7000 105 components, including the new low-profile Shadow rear derailleur, but Masi tweaks the build with an aim towards field-serviceability. Instead of hydraulic brakes, the Speciale Randonneur pairs mechanical R7000 levers with dual piston TRP Spyre brakes. The bikes rolls on WTB 650b x 47mm Horizon rubber.
Two components on the Speciale Randonneur 650B shine bright. The chrome front and rear fenders, and the front dynamo-based headlight. The bike is expected to retail around $1,900.
All three models should be available later this summer. See the slide show below for a closer look at Masi's bikes.
More info: masibikes.com
See what’s new this year with our coverage of the 2018 Sea Otter trade show.