It seems like more and more riders are searching for the one bike that feels like it can take on anything. For Tripp from SRAM, that moment started at Cascade Bicycle Studio. His mission was clear: build a modern gravel bike that could handle the grit of the Pacific Northwest while delivering the refinement and confidence to go the distance.
This is his story, and ours.
Why Fit Comes First
Tripp didn’t want a garage full of bikes. He wanted one machine that could climb deep into the Cascades, carve down twisting descents, and stay steady on endless gravel miles. No compromises. Just a single bike that balanced performance, comfort, and versatility.
That’s why he landed on the Taos.
The Taos is not a road bike with wide tire clearance. It was designed from the ground up to thrive where tarmac ends. Every detail of its design reflects the way we think about gravel riding: fast, capable, and confidence-inspiring.
- Monocoque carbon frame: Lightweight, rigid, and tuned for compliance where it matters most.
- Purpose-built geometry: Long front-center, increased standover, suspension-corrected fork.
- Versatility baked in: 700×50mm clearance, flip-chip adaptability, dropper-post compatibility.
It’s a rare bike that feels just as alive on rugged singletrack as it does on smooth, rolling miles. That’s the Taos.
To bring the build together, Tripp chose the new SRAM Force XPLR AXS 1×13 drivetrain. It’s precision-engineered for gravel riders who demand both grit and speed.
- 13-speed progression: The right steps for both climbing and flying on the flats.
- Wireless shifting: Clean, intuitive, and consistent.
- Hydraulic braking: Control and confidence on every descent.
What once belonged only to Red is now in Force: premium touches, made lighter and more accessible. It’s gravel-ready without compromise—the perfect companion to the Taos.
Fit to Finish at Cascade Bicycle Studio
From the first conversation to the final test ride, this project was about more than parts and specs. It was about collaboration. About dialing in a bike that wasn’t just a bike, but his bike.
The result? A Parlee Taos with SRAM Force XPLR, tailored to Tripp’s fit, his goals, and the adventures he’s chasing next.
At Cascade Bicycle Studio, they call it Fit to Finish. We call it exactly what Parlee is all about: building bikes that disappear beneath you, so you can lose yourself in the ride.
