Beautiful Bicycle: Open U.P.P.E.R.

Beautiful Bicycle: Open UPPER

Written by Ezra Jefferies, on July 06, 2024

OPEN Cycles was created with a focus on building high-performance, innovative, and minimalistic bikes, primarily aimed at serious cyclists and enthusiasts. The philosophy of “Relentless Simplicity” guides their design and business approach, aiming to strip away unnecessary complexities in favor of pure performance and enjoyment. The OPEN brand runs deep in Contender’s DNA and this custom UPPER showcases the beauty of simplicity and performance perfectly.

Custom black OPEN UPPER staged in front of a brick wall.

Build Highlights

The first thing that stands out on this bike is the THM Clavicula crankset. THM components are premium and not commonly found on every bike. THM is known for its meticulous engineering and attention to detail. The Clavicula SE cranks are a testament to this, featuring superior craftsmanship that not only performs exceptionally but also looks aesthetically pleasing on any custom build.
THM Clavicula SE cranks with a rainbow chain and WOLF TOOTH chainring.
For the rest of the drivetrain, the customer opted for a 'mullet' setup, which combines road shifters with a mountain bike cassette and derailleur. This is made possible using SRAM AXS technology. The levers are from the latest SRAM RED, paired with a XX1 AXS derailleur featuring a Ceramic Speed OSPW. To enhance the overall aesthetic, a rainbow chain and cassette were added, perfectly complementing the build.
XX1 Derailleur with rainbow cassette and chain.
Front view of custom OPEN UPPER.
New SRAM RED caliper close up.
Frameset  Custom OPEN U.P.P.E.R.
Groupset SRAM RED Levers, XX1 AXS Derailleur and Rainbow Cassette
Crankset THM Clavicula SE Gloss 170, WOLF TOOTH Chainring
Gearing 42t Chainring, 10-50t Cassette
Bottom Bracket Ceramic Speed
Wheelset ENVE G23 Carbon Wheels
Tires Panaracer GravelKing Slick Plus+ 700x38
Handlebar Roval Rapide Cockpit 90/400
Handlebar Tap Supacaz Super Sticky Kush Galaxy Tape
Saddle S-Works Phenom Carbon
Seatpost Darimo T1
Extras Ceramic Speed OSPW, WOLF TOOTH Blue Lockrings
Blue Wolf Tooth lockring to match the colors on the bike.
Blue water bottle cage bolts to match the bike.
Darimo T1 seatpost clamp close up.
Supacaz rainbow bar end close up.
U.P.P.E.R. letters painted in a galaxy fade paint job.
Custom OPEN Upper in front of brick wall at an angle.

Want to build an OPEN U.P.P.E.R. for yourself? Well, we can help! Chat us on our website, or call in to talk about your dream build. 

2 comments

  • Hey Nancy,
    I would look at some offerings from Ride Wrap or Lizard Skins for a clear frame protection.

    Isaac Boyden - Contender Bicycles on

  • Do you have any bike wraps for the cross bar. My crossbar got strapped while traveling.

    Nancy Mahler on

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