To showcase the ultimate in optimization, comfort, and customization, PRO Bikegear commissioned Quirk Cycles to build two unique Columbus steel bikes. The first of these was the Durmitor - a road bike stripped down to its most basic elements, created for quick handling, proficient climbing, and effortless rolling making it a road cyclists dream. For many cyclists, the ultimate dream bike.

For a while now we have been developing ways to utilise integrated setups in steel builds. Besides the aerodynamic advantage routing the cables completely inside the frame, there are practical benefits too, such as no damage to the paint finish from rubbing cables, and cleaning the bike is infinitely easier. But let’s be frank, an integrated setup just looks so good! Achieving this in steel takes a lot of customisation and to achieve this a custom machined oversized 56mm headtube has been developed by us. The tubing allows me to internally route the caballing through the headtube and gives it a modern look. It does add 15 grams to the overall weight, a worthwhile penalty.

3D-printed stainless steel is used to further add to the bike's sleek, modern, and aerodynamic aesthetic. It has an integrated seat clamp hidden inside the cluster, which pairs perfectly with our unique dropouts. These 3D-printed parts allows the use of thinner seat stays for greater flexibility. Not only does this makes the bike more comfortable, the greater degree of flex means the rear wheel absorbs bumps rather than bouncing retaining a greater degree of traction.

It would be impossible to talk about this bike and not mention the paint finish. For the second time now we worked with Lucia of Velofique. She cut her teeth painting for WyndyMilla and is known for making incredibly gorgeous, deep, hand painted designs and finishes. Preferring a great range of techniques, rather than just using spray guns. The design is based on Kintsugi, which is the Japanese art of fixing broken pottery in such a way that it becomes even more beautiful. The final product is stunning, thanks to the blue and turquoise taken from PRO’s logo.

The bike is equipped with the PRO Vibe Evo integrated cockpit, a Vibe Seatpost, and Falcon Team Saddle, and finished with Shimano Ultegra Di2 12-speed groupset and Shimano’s aero Ultegra C50 wheelset.