The Journey of Creating and Riding a Scarab: Inspired by Fly Fishing and Cycling

At the moment I'd finally decided to upgrade my old Specialized Tri-Cross to a modern gravel bike, Santi just happened to be in town and joined the Tuesday morning gravel ride that my team, Bluemont Connection, hosts along the towpath in Washington, DC. What great fortune that was!

As we rode, I shared with Santi my thoughts about some carbon models I had been considering and asked him why I should spend twice as much on a custom steel bike. Santi explained the much greater life expectancy of steel versus carbon on gravel. He told me that if I got a Scarab, I’d be able to ride it for the rest of my life. The idea of a "forever bike" was very appealing, especially since my road bike is a titanium Mosaic.

Santi let me try his Scarab after the ride, and I was completely hooked. I couldn’t believe how alive that bike felt! I loved everything about it. Without hesitation, I put down a deposit as soon as we got back.

Riding the Scarab has been an incredible experience. I'm almost embarrassed by how much I love this (allegedly) inanimate object. Although I initially bought it primarily as a gravel bike, I find myself reaching for my Scarab more than any other bike in my collection. The custom fit is so perfect that I'm planning to get a set of road wheels so I can ride it all the time. The ride is incredibly responsive and solid, yet surprisingly light for steel. As they say, "It’s like butter."

The story behind the paint choices for my Scarab is just as unique. My bike, affectionately named "The Steelhead," draws inspiration from a huge steelhead trout I once caught in Western New York. When I discovered that I could fully customize the paint for a modest charge, I realized I had the opportunity to combine two of my passions – cycling and fly fishing – into one stunning piece of art. Alejandro and I exchanged design ideas for several months, and the result was absolutely amazing. The compliments I receive on my paint job are endless, and I love knowing that my bike is truly one-of-a-kind.

 As for my dream ride, I can't wait to bring my Scarab to Colombia and tackle some of the Transcordilleras. And who knows, maybe from there, I'll venture to Patagonia for some trout fishing!

Reflecting on my journey, I couldn't be happier with my bike and the entire Scarab experience. I feel like I'm truly part of a family, and they have made my bike dreams come true.

Jack,

Scarab Friend and Customer