I’ve been really into building up vintage classic hybrid bicycles—the do-it-all bikes that were popular for a brief moment in the late ’80s and early ’90s. Almost every manufacturer made a version: Univega, Trek, Giant, Bianchi, etc. While they still exist, they’re not as common as they once were. These bikes, with their 700c wheels, slack geometry, and upright riding position, were designed for the average rider—the commoner, Joe Six-Pack. Many were steel, which I prefer. Some were nicer than others, featuring better specs or higher-end wheelsets, but they all seemed to fit the same mold: a decent all-rounder.
They weren’t designed to break land speed records or excel on a specific terrain like dirt or pavement. Maybe that’s why they faded in popularity, as mountain bikes and road bikes became more advanced and specialized. The humble hybrid—Jack of all trades, master of none—simply wasn’t cool or niche enough and has since been relegated to the realm of the “uncool dad bike.” I, however, being a dad, love them.
So why am I talking about hybrid bikes when I’m reviewing this flat-bar gravel bike from BikesDirect? Simple: I totally dad-biked the shit out of it. In reality, this is more of a review of the frame that I stripped with the idea of creating something similar to the hybrids I’ve built before.
I’ve built several Univegas, including a Via Carisma and a Via Activa, into some pretty nice all-rounders, but I wanted something a bit more modern—steel frame, disc brakes. I looked at multiple frames, from Surly to Rivendell, but they were out of my budget. Then I saw the Mercier Kilo GT T16 for $599. It came in real chrome for $50 extra, and I was sold. After taxes, the complete bike was just under $700. I’ll admit, it was an impulse buy.
But here’s the thing: I basically stripped it down to just the frame and wheels, so in reality, I paid for a mid-range Shimano disc wheelset and a frame—not the best financial decision. I rebuilt it with components from my parts bin (which is free, right?) and a few splurges on new brakes, cassette, tires, and handlebars:
Build Specs:
• Brakes: TRP Hy/Rd cable-actuated disc brakes
• Crankset: Vintage XTR FC-M960 (the kind where replacement chainrings are nearly impossible to find… but it looks cool)
• Brake Levers: Shimano LX (apparently not supposed to work with these brakes, but I like the feel)
• Shifters: Vintage Shimano downtube shifters modified for thumbie adapters
• Tires: Schwalbe G-One Overland 655-50 (28x2”, set up tubeless)
• Rack: Soma Fabrication front rack with a low-profile stainless basket zip-tied on
• Bag: Liz Claiborne brown leather purse as a tool/rack bag
• Handlebars: Nitto B365 M’s Bar (a commuter bar made for Blue Lug Japan, picked up on a recent trip)
• Cassette: Sunlite 8-speed 11-42T
• Saddle: Already broken-in Brooks B17
• Seatpost: Replaced the black stock one with a silver post for aesthetics
The bike originally came with an 8-speed Shimano Claris drivetrain and Shimano MT201 hydraulic brakes, but I didn’t want to deal with cutting and bleeding new hydraulic lines to fit the swept-back handlebars. Hence, I swapped to the TRP cable-actuated brakes.
Fit & Ride Quality
I opted for a massive 58cm frame. I prefer larger frames, especially with swept-back handlebars. A bigger frame gives me a more comfortable, stretched-out riding position, allowing for better stability and control—especially on longer rides or mixed-terrain adventures. With these bars, my hands rest naturally in a relaxed position, reducing strain on my wrists and shoulders while keeping my posture upright and engaged. It’s a setup that enhances comfort, leverage, and maneuverability—perfect for city cruising, light touring, or gravel riding with a hybrid-style feel. There’s something about a larger frame paired with these bars that makes a bike feel planted, smooth, and effortless—built for the long haul, not just quick sprints.
So how does it ride? It exceeds my expectations. This bike does exactly what I want it to—traverse any surface, reliably and with confidence.
With the front rack, basket, and kickstand, the bike weighs in at a hefty 32 pounds—which some might find unacceptable. I, however, don’t give a shit. I usually carry a U-lock and a full complement of emergency tools in my Liz Claiborne bike purse, adding another 6 pounds. Once you stop caring about weight, a whole new world of riding opens up. I used to fret over it, but now? Not at all. Am I the first to the top of the climb? Generally, no. Do I care? Again—nope!
Gearing & Performance
Like most of my builds, this bike is way over-geared. The vintage XTR crank (22-32-42T) paired with an 8-speed 11-42T cassette gives me a gear range of 720%, which is great for hauling loads or grinding through long rides.
This is also my first tubeless setup. I’ve been skeptical—seemed untrustworthy—but everyone tells me I’m wrong. Let’s see how it holds up.
I’ve taken the bike on a few light trails and some group rides. So far, I’d say it’s a great bike. The TRP Hy/Rd brakes work well, though hydraulic brakes offer more fine modulation. That said, the upgrade over V-brakes (which already stop well) and the worry-free wet-weather performance make them a solid choice for my hybrid all-rounder.
Handlebars & Comfort
Let’s talk about the Nitto B365 M’s Bar—one of my favorite parts of this build. These steel bars, made for Blue Lug Japan, aren’t as light as Nitto’s aluminum bars, but they’re super burly. Since this bike wasn’t built for speed, I don’t mind the weight.
I also intentionally left the most forward part of the bars free of shifters and accessories. This space makes for a perfect hand position for seated climbing or getting into a more aerodynamic tuck. I’m not sure if that was intentional on Nitto’s part, but I love it.
Tires & Ride Feel
The Schwalbe G-One Overland tires (running 45-50 psi) are plush. I’m not into performance metrics related to speed, so I can’t tell you how fast they are or if they’re sluggish. I don’t corner aggressively enough to notice differences in grip, either. I just liked the tread pattern and the all-around nature of these tires.
Chrome Finish
Now, the chrome. I love it. Word on the street is it scratches easily, and I’ve already got a few dings. But you know what? Just like pristine $70,000 pickup trucks that have never seen mud or received the random ding here and there, an untouched bike doesn’t impress me.
Bikes are meant to be ridden, and scratches and wear are just part of their story. It’s the same philosophy as wabi-sabi—the beauty in aging, imperfection, and utility. So while I’ll enjoy the pristine chrome for now, I won’t cry over the first big blemish.
Final Thoughts
I’ve only put about 100 miles on this build so far. If I feel like it, I might post an update later. But for now? I love it.
Happy riding.