Cult Classic or Secret Cult? | Wabi Classic Fixed Gear Bike Review

[@frankducett9]

I ordered my Classic with the right lever to the front brake, Reynolds tubing decal affixed, a 42 X 19 , all perfectly complied with at no added charge. Wheels are perfectly true out of the box after 1200 miles, but I'm only 148 lbs. Wabi is unique and my favorite.

[@KillMeLiving]

I bought a Wabi last summer and as a courier in Chicago it has treated me well. I've had no problems with any of the components even after riding every day through the winter. It's beautiful and solid.

[@Lurkerhlb3]

Zach Completely agree with your review, ordered my bike last Monday and it was on my door step Friday at 930 AM. Here are the specs on my bike: 1 x Wabi Classic Custom (Color / Graphic Choices: Jet Black, Frame Size: 55cm, Headset Color: Silver, Wheel Set: Wabi Sub-15 Silver (+$50), Tires: Panaracer Pasela 25mm Black Steel (+30), Stem Color: Silver, Stem Size: 80mm, Bars: Bullhorn 420mm Silver, Brake Levers: Top Mount, Brake Calipers: Stock Silver, Crankarms: 170mm Silver, Chainwheel Size: 46, Drive-side Cog: Dual Fixed 16-18 (+35), Non drive-side Cog: Fixed 17 (+19), Bar Tape - Grips: Black Padded, Omit Saddle: Yes, Omit Seatpost: Yes, Omit Rear Brake: No) Added a Thomson Elite Seat post (Silver ) with a Black Brooks C17 for my butt and Time ATAC MX4 Pedals for my feet. The “only” thing I had to do during assembly besides attach the front tire, mount the handle bars, and pumping up the tires to my desired pressure, was to make a very minor adjustment with the centering of the front brake pads. When wasn’t raining here in SD, put about 60 miles on the bike over two days and it rode as good or if not better than the customize aluminum fixed gear that I spent well over $2K on in the last six months to get it the way I wanted it. With the Wabi none of that was necessary great riding bike out of the box!!!!!

[@pemauck]

725 is an interesting tubeset. It was the hype shit back in the early 90s. It never caught on big, because the heat treat on it was not well suited to tig welding. Reynolds would not sell a 725 tubeset to any builder who was not certified to work with it for legal reasons. Sloppy tig technique would destroy the integrity of the tubes. Therefore, anyone who makes a 725 frameset has to know their shit.

[@SeppDelaney9]

My wife and I ride wabi bikes. Hers is the special, with the lugged frame, mine is the lightening frame (but I customized it). They’re both really nice riding and very comfortable when riding around town, and depending on hills, long rides in the saddle are reasonably comfortable as well. Good review, I agree wholeheartedly, and I’m glad to know that Richard left the company in good hands. Our bikes are probably a couple of the last ones out his doors before he handed over the reins.

[@MrDesoto1]

I bought the Wabi Special just over a year ago, and it has become my favorite of the 3 bikes I now own, including a carbon Bianchi.

[@richardking3681]

Hey Zach--- I have enjoyed your videos for a while now. When I saw this one I was intrigued. I am a road bike guy and have dabbled in fixies; currently I was riding one (occasionally) which I built up from an old '70's Fuji. Hi-ten steel, Eighth Inch Amelia wheels, various bits and pieces... So I wanted to check out this purposefully built, modern machine. Got it last week! Love it! As you said, Matt was extremely helpful in answering my questions before the purchase and afterward. I sent them some brake calipers that I've loved for a while and a set of tires. Rides really great! Keep up the great vids!

[@roadsterguy79]

Nice review Zach! I've always wanted a Wabi as well. Let's hope they keep making great bikes so we can all have one some day. Lol

[@timothygrundy7357]

Couldn't agree more with your review. And if you do get a Classic, dig a little deeper, get the Super Light Wheels, throw on a set of Grand Bois tires, and it is like riding on crack cocaine.

[@rharr8846]

Grande Bois tires transform a bike. They are that good.

[@teokumi391]

legend has it that zach is now a wabi cult leader

[@paulleschuk3533]

Hope your knee feels better Zach! Remember the body is like a chain...and more often than not, knee problems are actually ankle mobility or hip mobility problems...I'd love to see you someday on a simple geared road bike like 1x10 or 1x11 speed.

[@bknapp9728]

Really appreciate your balanced reviews for both the Wabi Classic and the Lightning SE. I was not familiar with Wabi until seeking out your reviews. I have been riding the Specialized Langster Steet for over two years. I think the investment ($625, now $730) for the aluminum frame and carbon forks, and a stiff, responsive, and durable build was a good value for me. But it is the only 1 of 2 fixed rides I know (the Langster replaced a stolen Gary Fisher Triton). I look forward to test riding a Wabi, in the future, based upon your reviews. Thanks again.

[@dipdip7250]

Did you try riding a wabi? I own a specialized langster too and I am currently considering buying a wabi instead. Your input would be appreciated.

[@bknapp9728]

@dipdip7250 Sorry. I still have no experience with a Wabi. I ended up buying a new Bianchi Pista frame about 2 years ago and building it up with Dura Ace... very happy with this ride. I do keep an eye out for values. There is a bike vendor, Paradise Garage, that has a complete All City Big Block listed at $799 (lug construction similar to Wabi). This appears to be a very good price for this steel bike. Lastly, if you are looking for an aluminum, frame only, like the Langster, there is a bike shop in NJ selling the Dolan Pre Cursa frames for $329. Also, it is a very good price. I gave my Langster to a young rider who really wanted it, only to find I can no longer replace (for years). I sure miss it. Best wishes in your search, and if you elect to sell the Langster, keep in mind they are difficult to replace. 👌

[@bknapp9728]

@@dipdip7250 The bike shop in NJ is Radical Velo.

[@Minxical]

Yo Zach, great videos man! I was wondering if you can make a video on forks, stems and headsets? I'm lacking info/how to's o that area of bike building

[@nefariousstylo9943]

Ordered Sub-15's for my Cordoba (Checked for dents, still too loud a frame to get me off steel) I asked Wabi if I could use a QR skewer to use the bike on a trainer. They responded within the minute with a clear and polite yes but the rear spacing would make it difficult finding a skewer. They recommended I contact them again if I have any success/failure to help if they come across similar questions. It was very human and combined with just how dang good the wheels are I don't think there's a cult, I think these bikes are just that good and SEVERELY underpriced in a good way for us.

[@jiki88]

Great Vid! Please do a video on this bike with a Commuter Set-up (with Fender and Racks) and what max tire size to put with fender. Thanks

[@josephf5036]

Very funny and precise videos. Definitely my next bike will be a Wabi or maybe a Dolan!? I hope my Pinnacle Dolomite and Mango custom single speed don't get jealous!

[@xxlakxx2670]

it is 2022 and i have to say it...zach is exactly like the guy from the forums......like he points out in every vid he makes that his wabi special is the best riding bike he owns (the only one he owns) he is literally worshiping wabi bikes

[@B_COOPER]

Yeah you’d figure by now he’s partnered with them.

[@b5thomas7]

Zach, did this Wabi come with the standard 46:18 gearing? I'm adding a freewheel onto my bike (48 tooth chainring) and trying to decide on a sprocket. Thinking 48/18 or 48/19. Not worried about skid patches as I have brakes and mostly freewheel. Thoughts?

[@simondr70]

Things you gotta make sure when ordering a Wabi 1- the welds , ask that they get the one in the batch with the nicest welds 2- seatpost retention bolts some framesets were delivered without one 3- COLOR OF THE HEADSET SILVER OR BLACK , indicate in the message box when ordering what color you want the headset or else they will send you a silver one automatically . No they do not swap or re-imburse your money but they will gladly sell you an extra one ..

[@johnbaca8692]

So, I guess you liked the Wabi? I would have flipped the stem to get a little more height, but then I'm an old man with abused joints. I don't ride fixed, it feels weird. I do like your vids. Thanks for another good one!

[@DanielLenaghan]

Nice! I'll happily pretend that one of my comments about Wabi way back might've helped precipitate this.. happy riding!

[@stephanbahr98]

Ordered the bike yesterday after a long time worrying about which size to pick. Matt helped me, great service. Would buy again

[@greeneking77]

6:00 The weight you listed here is not correct. Wabi site states 18.5lb on the 55cm bike without pedals. The one you have is a larger 58cm and all I can see is you upgraded to panaracer 28's instead of the stock Kenda 28's and the freewheel has been removed (roughly 175grams) How are you getting to a "17 pounds flat"?? Still a awesome bike, I have a classic, no need to misinform by showing the bike with brakes but giving the weight will all brakes cables and levers removed (I'm guessing)

[@18vxxx]

I wanted a wabi, but I drank the state bicycle kool aid.

[@18vxxx]

don't be, my undefeated is awesome. I am happy with my decision.

[@CeeZee001]

+Edward Spurr as long as it fits your needs. I know Zach likes to push quality but if it's a bike you know your going to get some use of it why not. I have a hi tensile bike but is lbs assembled and it fits my needs. eventually I'll upgrade but the fact is I'm happy with it and it's way better than a department store bike.

[@18vxxx]

isaac carrillo oh 100% agree! My state undefeated II is great and rides like a dream.

[@OrganicGonzalez]

I was cracking up, but great video. i really hope, u get to keep that beautiful bike in the end. ... sorry Ricky... hello Rocky!

[@4026-J]

Keep up the goodwork man love your vids!

[@chrisgoblin4857]

I don't even ride fixed or even on the roads but I enjoy your videos. I guess I just dig bikes in general. Get yourself on a DH rig and video that lol.

[@hopetofly]

such a great video Zach! loved the humour and editing style of this one ✌️

[@letterbox79]

Bought a Wabi myself a few months ago, completely worth it!

[@ZOB4]

The fixie I buy will be a third bike - road bike, mountain bike, potential fixie as a third. Is a Wabi the best choice for a steel frame fixed gear to be used for running around town and building strength on some hilly roads? I would really only be using it for that, no racing, just for errands and having fun. I have a Brooks saddle that needs a home, it'd look great on a steel frame to be used around town. I have a few leads on last year's Specialized Langster (which I know is aluminum, and is comparable for a complete bike), which I feel is a little more aggressive (more like what I'm used to on my road bike), but also a bit showy with the name and colors. The State bikes look super nice and have a great aesthetic, but I haven't ridden either of them.

[@LoranBriggs]

I'm in a similar position, gravel bike, mtb bike, and a low budget pure fix. Looking to replace the purefix with a Wabi Classic pretty soon. From my research so far it sounds like a good fit for what you describe. If your looking for good quality steel this seems the best value for the money. Anything cheeper is usually Cromy steel or hi ten such is my pure fix. I'd say if you want a simple town bike I'd buy the Want Classic.

[@mr.sacluti9174]

Hello, I stand 6'2" what size frame do I need? 58cm or larger? BTW, great videos.

[@johnbravo7542]

60cm

[@fuzzygreenn]

Just picked up a Wabi Special. Oh man, the ride compared to my aluminum frame bikes blows them out of the water. Yea, those are on letgo now, and I will be purchasing a thunder to throw some 2" tires on that bad boy next. I really can't get over the quality of the bike for the price, and I have no complaints about the components besides the seat. It's a stock seat, there's that. If you're looking for a bike that will make riding fun again, can't go wrong with Wabi fo sho!

[@viewingchannel4706]

Hey Zach, Fan of the channel and subscriber, also a SD resident, anyway I was curious as too what frame you would recommend as for an endurance bike frame to swap on my track bike, I commute from D.T. SD area to Miramar Rd daily for work and wanted something easier on the back without buying a new bike, I have decently new parts been commuting for 2 years having a hard time being consistent as I'm a jiu jitsu athlete and train daily and looking for a way to not stress out the back muscle too much going up the hill from mission to LA Jolla, Thanx in advance, I'm considering buying this frame after the video lol

[@nerfmanich2211]

Hey Zach love you videos. I am so glad i found your channel. I want to buy my first fixed gear bike but my budget is probably lower that 250 euros. Do know any good bike i could buy for this price? :) Sry that i am not able to reserce by my selve but i just cant read geometry charts because of the language barrier. As you may noticed my englisch is not that good. I am from Germany Berlin and just speak englisch in school. By the way, you are such a cool guy i love watching your vids

[@vypoar]

In Germany for 250 euros just look for used bikes.

[@nerfmanich2211]

Thanks for your answer :) But it is not possible to get a used bike because peoples usually dont sell them :(

[@be4ny496]

Loving the videos and loving the wabi, but it's a bit too expensive for me. I have been looking at the Claud Butler Lombard St and was wondering if you had an opinion on this bike?

[@briangrondin1978]

Zach, can you clarify where Wabi is now located? It seems they may have "quietly" moved from Tulsa to Denver. Might you have any details?

[@moritzkoopmann6771]

Awesome Video! I Love your Content. Please Keep doing what you do!

[@_rax]

Zach, would you advise me on buying a bike ? I'm teared appart for a Fuji or a Leader which are both on sale but I don't want to fall into the crappy bike trap... Could we pm or something ? I'd appreciate a lot. The bike sellers have good arguments obviously but I'd really like to have an external point of view ! (congrats for the 11k now !)

[@topherwinslow140]

This was an awesome review, you should see if you can get your hands on a Constantine to review. I'm curious what your opinion would be.

[@dr_skipwith]

2:21 Five Nights At Freddy's laugh. Lmao

[@Lurkerhlb3]

Zach , how did the Wabi ride going over the "summit" on HWY 52?

[@bee_whisper]

do you mostly stick to fixies because im tempted to do a single speed coversion of a road frame.

[@simondr70]

Bought a Classic tig welded in midnight blue cant wait to ride it this summer ..

[@therealunledstudios]

Hey Zach, love the videos, I'm just now getting into bicycles and was wondering what your thoughts were on the 17teeth pista?

[@Ducky667k1]

Did u get a bike yet?

[@practicaldudeonpedal929]

Hi Zach, nice video, I'm planning to buy Wabi Classic, do you have an idea if they have 46cm size (small)? And do they have a shop or dealer here in Manila Philippines? thanks in advance, have a nice day.

[@tidos76]

good group of guys. great customer service and perfect attention to detail.

[@yngugly4188]

7:55 you were at Mission Trails lol

[@slowtwitches]

Rocket Surgery

[@allgoo1964]

Aaron Obenza says: "Rocket Surgery" == Yes, that's what he said. lol

[@jamberancheta-delacruz4863]

@Zach , What is the size of the frame

[@simondr70]

Carefull peeps when ordering the Classic: headset colour , quality of welds, seatbolt must be mentioned in the message box ..I'm stuck selling the headset i received plus having to order a new one plus paying for the custom fees ..

[@pablosandoval1525]

Hey, what's your opinion on aventons

[@donphobos]

Is Wabi available in Europe, please?

[@anthonymohammed5014]

What's the cost

[@mars9390]

Wabi bike "stroke me harder!!" 0_0

[@patrickjohnpereira4551]

Enjoyed this. Thanks, flying down to Oklahoma now to pick one up

[@johntkearns]

So many spacers...

[@johnbravo7542]

Why no Reynolds 725 sticker on the bike??

[@guywheatley9900]

i watch all your videos and im a completely new fixed gear rider but cycle a lot on my orbea avant but i would love to buy a high quality fixed gear and i have chosen the cinelli mystic and would love your opion on cinelli and the mystic itself

[@itecnus3490]

I want this bike but not fixed gear. I like coasting :)

[@tychay]

Versaii You can configure it with a freewheel as well as a flip flop hub for different gearing or either/or. I think they also make a multi speed road bike.

[@yoyomaniac50250]

Terry Chay just ordered a turquoise classic with the deluxe freewheel. Should coast nice

[@JC-mu7ju]

Same (: I like using fixed to do a workout but when I want to ride I coast :)

[@jaocb178]

Song is pineapple rag, bit frog legs rag. I'm such a nerd :p

[@timothygrundy7357]

Couldn't agree more with your review. And if you do lay out the dosh for a Classic, dig a little deeper, get the Super Light Wheels, throw on a set of Grand Bois tires, and it is like riding on crack cocaine.

[@s.willis8426]

So really good for about 30 seconds then is all gone leaving you crawling on the ground looking for the last remaining pieces of it?

[@ZekeAintFunny]

@@s.willis8426 I think that's carbon fiber

[@puerto6482]

Can anyone comment on issues with pedal strikes and toe overlap with the Wabi classic? If they are in fact a issue, would 165mm cranks help? Particularly for the 55cm frame, but any personal experience with any Wabi frame size would be much appreciated.

[@coloradorc]

It is funny how he became the people that he used to make fun of

[@B_COOPER]

It’s called growing up

[@pwnedbyfishies]

feels bad when my hubset is almost the price of a whole bike

[@AsianCheeseToaster]

pwnedbyfishies #humblebrag

[@pwnedbyfishies]

you know it

[@xgalvan1]

pwnedbyfishies gets dropped on climbs by a rider on the Wabi, but has CK or DTSws hubs. ride up grades don't buy upgrades

[@stevelyxzen4668]

that's a lot of assumtions there dumdum

[@pwnedbyfishies]

@xgalvan1 how do you get through life making so many assumptions hahaha, no need to get so bent out of shape. Some of us just like nice things and theres nothing wrong with being able to afford them. Not everyone has the silly roadie mindset of needing to be the most vegan fastest rider out there. That being said, I am not slow, so dont worry about me being dropped by a wabi.

[@stepback4668]

How much

[@GarryFam]

weight please ?

[@kys5224]

wheres this week vid?

[@qrockz007]

why do fixed gears only made of steel or aluminium. is there no carbon only version of theese bikes?

[@christophersullivan6405]

58 CM, How tall are you? What is your inseam?

[@christophersullivan6405]

Thanks, I am 5'11"-6' and they The guys at Wabi suggested I get a 55cm. Guess I better do some measuring and research.

[@ericsonumali7792]

do you use freewheel...

[@jiki88]

Zach Gallardo what is the nondrive side cog in wabi custom option?

[@bluetickhound16]

I’m joining the cult, errrr, buying a Wabi today. Like, as soon as I finish posting this comment. Which way to the mothership??!?

[@dannybodros5180]

3:36- your rims are cracked along the spokes. Not good!

[@trajtemberg]

damn

[@hephilthy]

It’s glare from the spokes, not cracks.

[@dannybodros5180]

@@hephilthy I don't know man, even later in the video you can see them. The angle is different too. Wabi cycles are known for excellent frames and crap components.

[@smokeymcpot210]

It’s just glare.

[@apv1]

ITS HERE! And first :D

[@Und3rGroundRappers]

Can you peel off the logos?

[@Biscuitabuse]

I'm in no way a weight weenie, I like my bikes bulletproof, the lightest bike I own is 22lbs. Would love one of these though, more of a show off bike than a workhorse from what I've read though.

[@dimelo58]

Mine got stolen about a month ago😢

[@murt4701]

I got hooked on this bike within 5 min. Way over budget, but I'm getting it LOL. I come from carbon too ahhaha

[@ilikewasabe]

ohhh that sexy tire clearance!! take my money wabi!!

[@SaiCostmoney]

Hey! can you do a review on Mission Bicycle Company bikes ? located in san Francisco CA

[@gneissrocks1845]

Ok OK already, I want one....where do I join the cult?

[@alexecheverria8971]

what would be considered a "light" bike

[@ChristofMitchell]

have you heard of the 30 days of biking I initiative

[@dannynguyen9039]

I saw a wabi classic when I was riding in ocean beach but it had nicer phillywood hubs

[@pollo.888]

Ride a Wabi rear cog. Great customer service would buy from again.

[@mingg3096]

what do you guys think about specialized langster street compare to wabi classic?

[@bknapp9728]

Been riding a 2017 Langster Street for approximately 2 1/2 years. My rides range from 30 miles, across town, to riding the HHH100mi. I paid $625 and it appears to retail now for $730. I would buy this bike again. The frame is aluminum with carbon forks and the overall parts appear very good quality (not starter, not high-end). I have only upgraded the chain, starter pedals, and replaced the tires with Gatorskins and the white tape on the bullhorn bars. I would strongly encourage anyone looking for a fixed or SS to try out the Langster Street.

[@OlieWheeler]

I wants one!

[@mortlow6688]

the ak 47 fixie... like it.. with a silver flatbar it would be perfect...

[@davidbalazs9503]

Wanted steel, got aluminum. Specialized #Langster gang. Track or die, no 'Aventon" or "6KU" bullcrap. Wabi is a real bike though, clarify that.

[@deltormedici]

Langster geometry looks like a touring bike to me

[@MVBriscoVolante]

How did you weigh it because that sounds overly light for what it appears to be

[@simondr70]

DO NOT RUN A SRAM S300 Crankset with the classic theres clearing issues where the chainring strikes the chainstay . Wabi won't reveal this detail because they would lose sales .

[@dipdip7250]

Are you not a fan of wabi?

[@c.w.9615]

Gonna buy one today. You should get a percentage. I liked the comment about the flex and the level of components. #1stfixie

[@richardking3681]

C. W. You won’t regret it!

[@raidersperez1278]

Umm it’s 915 now with out taxes. Over 1k at the check out

[@papa_ethan]

Just asking if you from a Filipino or Latino descendants?

[@jamesnspry]

slam dat stem

[@klarkolofsson]

Zach likes his upright position, looks real ugly but hey!

[@gerbilpmc]

Why does it look ugly? What's wrong a upright position?

[@Echa37-H37]

It's personal taste. I personally don't like having that much stack above the head tube.

[@kartech6938]

flat back goes fast

[@NiklasRi]

Hey, i am a mountainbiker... I though for offroad you use a mountainbike, for onroad a road bike and if you're over 50 yo a trekking bike. Can someone explain what the purpose of fixed gear bikes is?

[@markrichey3914]

When Wabi gwows up will he be cawwed ROBERT"?

[@KLA82]

Mark Richey wewy undow wated comwent.

[@sleepingslightly]

what happened to the vids?? 😢

[@albydarn]

Buy Wabi

[@GamebossUKB]

It's not rocket surgery guys

[@allgoo1964]

"Wabi" means apology? Where did that name come from?

[@KLA82]

allgoo19 it’s possibly a Taoist practice called Wabi Sabi. “wabi-sabi is a world view centered on the acceptance of transience and imperfection. The aesthetic is sometimes described as one of beauty that is "imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete".”