If you haven’t read Andy Hampsten’s account of his sub-zero ride to wear the Pink Jersey in the 1988 Giro d’Italia, you really should: it will give you greater appreciation for those hard men of the mountains and for today’s bike. Andy Hampsten and his brother Steve have been in the frame building business since 1999 and their experience with the racing classics is evident in their range.
The Team Pro is the Gran Turismo of the Hampsten line, the short wheelbase / skinny tire layout is ideal for all ‘round riding, and is perfectly capable of a club criterium if required. The brothers have chosen Columbus Pego-Richie tubes, which is a special blend specified by Dario Pegoretti and Richard Sachs — two masters of the art. Richard Sachs lugs and dropouts are also used, so the Team Pro frame is light and resilient as well as pleasing to the eye. Martin Tweedy brazes the silver at the Hampsten headquarters in Seattle, and color is applied by Russ in California. That scheme is very striking, like a silver fox with bright blue eyes.
The Hampsten brothers have developed a collection of not only highly exclusive bikes that cater for both Pro and Sunday racers, but also lithe tourers and randonneurs. Browse the complete series on their website, but first of all, read Andy’s description of his freezing ride in the Giro on the Italian Cycling Journal. Inspiring stuff. Special thanks to James Redick for the fine photography.
