Read everything you need to know about the OPEN MIND California Frameset on the Contender Journal.
The OPEN MIND California frameset is perhaps the finest frame OPEN has made yet. It is a road bike designed for people who want nothing more than the finest riding experience ever. Better yet, they don't want something optimized for pro riders to race and discard, but something that feels smoother the faster they go, snappier with every push of the pedals, and communicates as the perfect middle man between you and the road. The MIND California is just that, only optimized with lighter weight, additional snappiness, and surprisingly, even more ride compliance.
As one might expect, the MIND California shares quite a bit with the standard MIND. It shares the same continuous seattube and integrated seatmast OPEN designed in an effort to maximize comfort without using elastomers, bushings, or suspension. It also utilizes the same geometry as the MIND. The trail numbers promote agile turn-in, while bottom bracket heights bring stability as you carve your favorite mountain switchbacks. The fit measurements are a bit more on the moderate side of the spectrum in an effort to keep the drops of the handlebars within easy reach for us mere mortals. It is by all accounts an excellent base from which to start.
A size large frame weighs in at 775g with hardware and seatmast. Considering an ENVE 27.2mm zero-offset seatpost weighs in at 168g, this vaults the MIND California to the top of the list for those who value weight savings.
Of course, this frameset comes to us in all its carbon glory, ready to be painted. With our in house paint option, we recommend a light, tinted clearcoat to protect the frame from UV. We also recommend a contrasting logo so the OPEN gravel bike in the garage knows that the new bike is part of the family.
Want one for yourself? Contact us. We'd love to help you into a frameset, custom build, or a ready to paint option as well.