SMOKEY THE BANDIT - CRANKSTAR'S FIRST Z5 SLi ROLL OUT

Well, this one has been a work in progress. A mixture of ultra-modern parts combining with good old fashion functionality. It was as if the moons and stars where meant to align. When we here at Crankstar learnt of Parlee's intentions to release an internal Z5 Sli, it couldn't have come at a better time. Stalwart groupset manufacturer Shimano was just about to release their much anticipated Ultegra electronic groupo, and we knew it was only a matter of time before customers wanted to combine the two. So with only a minor delay, the finished product speaks for itself.

A delicious pallet of greys, silvers and blacks. Ride it, or frame it??

Super smooth cable exit points leave a fresh clean appearance. Shimano's new Ultegra carbon pedal completes the drive train.

Arundel's Trident matte carbon cages will keep a firm hold on the biddons. Note Parlee's carbon front derailleur clamp.

Hubs are from Alchemy laced with Sapim CX-Ray spokes and finished off with Hed's super impressive C2 rim.

The cockpit features Thompson's Road Stem combined with 3T's latest stealth carbon Pro bars. Fizik came through with the goods with this hard to find bar tape.

Keep an eye out for this bad boy flying around Mooloolaba this weekend. I'm sure it will be turning a few heads.

PROJECT Z5 2012 - FINISHED PRODUCT

 Well I might be a little late in posting the story, but our first Z5 project for 2012 is finished with one happy customer ripping around the streets of Brisbane on his new custom Parlee build. It is a superb representation of modern day products melting together to give a classic and classy feel to something which was built with function as its main aim. Here are some pics of the finished product.

The custom pin-striped Campag groupo matches the Parlee logos perfectly to give this build a personal touch. This groupo caused a sensation at the shop. People where coming in just to check it out!

 I'm a bit bias towards American products these days, but the Campag Record groupo seems made for the Parlee. Thompson stem & seat post combo was a must. Lizard Skin bar tape rounds off the cockpit. Much grip?? indeed!

The custom hand built Alchemy hubs with Hed C2 rims and Sapim CX-Ray spokes compliment the frame in both looks and performance. We were surprised at how the wheels combined with the frame to give this bike a special feel. It is not too often you hop on a bike and straight away feel a sense of security. This bike with all of its different elements combine to give you something which is hard to find these days, balance. No stones left un-turned. The Zen of custom bike builds.

CRESTMEAD RACE 2 WRAP UP

Steve George (Crankstar) takes the win. (www.thomascollier.com)

  Well, what an action packed hour. Crestmead has always been known for its high speed thrills and spills but this year is beginning to resemble the Daytona 500! Another block headwind down the finishing straight ensured the second edition again finished in a bunch kick. Being the start of the year and with many riders starting in new teams looking to earn browny points early, the race stayed close with only a couple of short but fruitless breaks getting away. The early sprint points where touchy with Nick Woods (TDU) making the most of his teams work and snatching enough points to take the Sprint Jersey away from team-mate Alex Wohler.

Ryan Macanally (Budget Forklifts) hits the deck after attempting take Peter Thompson's (Drapac) wheel. (www.thomascollier.com)

With 10 minutes to go and no sign of the lap board, it was physical again with riders jostling for position for the sprint. With 2 laps to go, Jayco 2XU took control of the race and led by Darren Rolfe, ensured the finish would be kept honest. The pace on the last lap split the bunch and left Jordan Kerby (QAS), Matt Wood (Jayco 2XU), Joel Lewis (Pensar Hawk) and Steve George (Crankstar) to battle out the finish and hold off a fast finishing Peter Thompson (Drapac).

Results.*

1. Steve George (Crankstar)

2. Matt Wood (Jayco 2XU)

3. Joel Lewis (Pensar Hawk)