Rides: Bryan's Scapin Spirit R8

There's just something about a steelie. And this one is another hot build out of Blacksmith Cycle and Scapin USA. This time it's a custom TIG welded Scapin R8 in heritage blue (colour code SP443.) The R8 frameset is hand built and hand painted in Italy from a mix of Columbus Spirit and custom steel tubesets in 6 sloping and 13 traditional geometries. The most distinctive feature may be the Scapin CFS (comfort flex system) which shapes the rear stays into a traditional leaf spring shape. This is done to dampen vibrations and disperse shocks for a more even and comforting ride. If the CFS seems familiar, it is. The same principle is applied to their chart toping Ivor frameset.

This blue beauty was built up for Bryan, a friend of the shop, and the build list shows a killer attention to detail. The heritage blue paint job caught my eye because it reminds me of a more vintage Fiat baby blue with its pearl finish. The subtle beauty of this frame is something to love.

Word is the final weight is 15lbs...ish. Not too shabby for a steel frame! But how does it ride? When I met up with Bryan in the summer to take the final build shot, he raved about its ride quality and the process of building his dream bike. He should be stoked. It's pretty slick.

Look forward to catching this one on the road now that it's out in the wild. Check out the full gallery below.