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Light ‘Em Up: Donhou Bicycles DSS3

Light 'Em Up: Donhou Bicycles DSS3

Today, finally, saw the third and latest release of Tom Donhou’s Signature Series, and it’s the most advanced edition yet, featuring a highly evolved 3D-printed seat lug. The new technology allows an unprecedented level of geometry options, and it’s a looker to boot.

Light 'Em Up: Donhou Bicycles DSS3

The new DSS3 has already won show prizes in its prototype form, namely Best CX Bike 2017 at this year’s NAHBS, and has taken podium places at various CX races. It is, at heart, both a CX race machine and a hardcore gravel rider.

Light 'Em Up: Donhou Bicycles DSS3

The 3D-printed seat lug allows the use of a heavily ovalised top tube, included for ride quality optimisation and comfortable shouldering, and the ability to set the seat stays further apart. This translates to greater stiffness and tire clearance.

Light 'Em Up: Donhou Bicycles DSS3

The new lug also allows the rear derailleur cable to be routed internally completely, which means less contamination of both the cable from mud and the silhouette of the all-steel frame by the cable itself.

Light 'Em Up: Donhou Bicycles DSS3

Tom’s DSS3 has been developed to be built up as a racer and in a more casual, adventurous guise. It will excel in both a race situation and bikepacking or audax-style rides with light baggage — and with smoother tires, will make a fine all-rounder.

Light 'Em Up: Donhou Bicycles DSS3

The frame is constructed from both Reynolds 853 and Columbus Zona tubes with a 142×12 thru-axle at the rear, along with the DMLS-printed seat cluster lug, and is designed around a carbon fork with a 12mm thru-axle and flat-mounted disc brakes.

Light 'Em Up: Donhou Bicycles DSS3

This is a thoroughbred stallion from the Donhou stables, and it’s guaranteed to become a pedigree favorite for riders wanting a hardcore ‘cross bike that can also be taken on serious backroad adventures. Head to the Donhou website for more information.

Donhou Bicycles Website | Facebook | Instagram

Big thanks to George Marshall for the photography.

Light 'Em Up: Donhou Bicycles DSS3