Q - What makes the Solitaire uniquely single-speed?
- We built the Solitaire without provisions for running a rear derailleur - sure, you can slap some wireless robots on there if you're into that sort of thing, or pull out the twine and shellac to fasten some shifty housing to the frame if you want to, but for us the essence of the Solitaire is simplicity.
Q - With this being a limited edition frame, how many Solitaires did you make?
- We're only making 50 total Frame/Fork of this specific Solitaire. Each one comes with a custom headbadge by Jen Green numbered 1 through 50.
Q - How many water bottles will the Solitaire carry?
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SM/MD = 1 bottle in the front traingle, 1 bottle under the down tube
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MD/LG = 1 bottle in the front traingle, 1 bottle under the down tube
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LG/XL = 2 bottles in the front traingle, 1 bottle under the down tube
Q - Can I put a rear rack on the Solitaire?
Q - Can I single-speed the Solitaire?
- You betcha! Our Portage Dropout System allows you to adjust the chainstay length by up to 14mm, allowing you to run a single speed setup reliably, quietly, and with ease. Heck, we even have a single speed build option that you can buy!
Q - Can I run an internally geared hub on the Solitaire?
- Technically, yes, but we recommend working with your favorite professional mechanic to figure out which hubs and support parts may be needed. Have fun!
Q - Do you do custom builds?
- We do not. We offer a limited menu of upgrade options for all of our bikes, but we do not do custom builds.
- If you'd like to have a custom Esker built up, please reach out to one of our Retail Partners and they'll work with you on getting you exactly what you want!
Q - Do your steel frames ride different than your Titanium frames?
- Yes and No. Based on our own riding input, as well as a ton of great input and feedback from our customers, find that our steel frames have a very similar feel when it comes to compliance on the trail in comparison with our Titanium frames. The biggest difference that most individuals feel is the weight savings of Titanium. Our Titanium frames are around 650-900grams lighter than their steel counterparts. This weight savings results in a 'snappier' and more 'lively' riding characteristic when on the trail.
Q - Do I need to 'Frame-Saver' your steel frames after I buy one?
- NOPE! We treat all of our steel frames with an Electrophoretic Deposition (ED) coating inside and out prior to painting them for rust protection.
Q - What does your warranty look like?
Q - Can I order one of your frames/bikes through a local bike shop?
- Absolutely. That would be the best way to order one of our frames/bikes! Working with your local bike shop allows you to get great insight on which model is right for you, which size may work best for your intended use, and ensure that your bike gets built up and fit to your exact specifications. Jump on over to our Dealer Locator to see a full map of our retail partners and find the one closest to you.
Q - Can I demo a bike before I buy it?
- We do our best to travel around throughout the year and often partner with regional mountain bike festivals or local retail partners to host demos. For the most up to date opportunities, check our Dealer Locator. You can also see a full map of our retail partners - reach out to them if you're near by and ask them what they may have available for you to demo locally.
Q - I want to buy a frame bag before my bike/frame arrives to me, can you provide the frame bag dimensions for the Solitaire?
- We don't recommend buying a frame bag until you have your frame/bike on hand. That is absolute best way to ensure you get the right size and shape for your bike.
- If you're looking to make a custom bag(s) for your Esker, we've partnered with some incredible custom frame bag makers that all have our frame dimensions and files on hand. Please reach out to one of them HERE.