Boise, Idaho’s Tumbleweed Bicycle Co., known for its purpose-built adventure bicycles, has unveiled the latest iteration of its popular Stargazer model. This new version, showcased at the MADE Show this year, features thoughtful upgrades that enhance its versatility while maintaining its core strengths. The Stargazer, originally launched in 2021, has gained a reputation as a reliable companion for both short errands and epic bikepacking journeys like the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR).
The latest Stargazer model introduces two striking new colors—Light Brick Red and Steel Blue—adding aesthetic appeal to its robust design. As one of Tumbleweed’s best-selling models, the Stargazer has earned accolades such as the Bikepacking Awards, Collective Choice, Editor’s Choice, and Gear of the Year awards. The Radavist even recognized it as the Best in Class drop bar touring bike.
“The Stargazer is probably our best all-arounder,” said Tumbleweed founder Daniel Molloy. “It covers a wide spectrum of different riding styles and is still capable as a fully loaded touring bike. It has certainly become a fan favorite.”
Gen 2 Stargazer: What’s New?
While the original Stargazer set a high standard, the Gen 2 version introduces several key upgrades. These enhancements, though few, are significant and purposeful, ensuring the bike remains at the forefront of the adventure cycling market.
- New color options: Light Brick Red and Steel Blue
- Updated geometry with a 10mm longer effective top tube across all sizes
- Increased seatpost diameter to 31.6mm for broader dropper post compatibility
- Revised dropouts with Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH)
Despite these upgrades, the Stargazer retains its core features, including its oversized, multi-butted, and heat-treated chromoly steel tubing. It continues to accommodate up to 29 x 2.6″ tires and offers extensive mounting options for racks, bottles, and gear storage. The bike’s rigid mountain design provides ample space for a frame bag, ensuring it meets the high expectations of Tumbleweed’s loyal customers.
Gen 2 Stargazer Specifications
The Gen 2 Stargazer is available for $1,450 for the frame and fork, and $4,150 for the complete bike. Its frame is crafted from heat-treated, size-specific chromoly tubing, featuring an oversized triple and quad-butted front triangle with integrated gussets. The bike is compatible with racks and fenders and includes three bottle mounts on the frame triangle.
Technical Details
- Fork: Unicrown Chromoly steel with 110x15mm thru axle, upper and lower rack mounts, fender mounts, and triple bottle cage mounts on fork legs
- Max Tire Clearance: 29×2.6″/27.5×3.0″
- Headtube: 44mm I.D.
- Headset: ZS44 upper, EC44 lower
- Bottom Bracket: 73mm BSA threaded
- Rear Axle: 148x12mm Boost
- Seatpost Diameter: 31.6mm, compatible with internally routed dropper posts
- Brake Compatibility: 160/180mm flat mount front and rear
- Fork Axle to Crown: 440mm
- Ster Tube Length: 350mm
- Chainring Clearance: 1X Boost, 38 tooth max
Market Impact and Future Prospects
The release of the Gen 2 Stargazer comes at a time when the demand for adventure and bikepacking bicycles is on the rise. According to industry analysts, the market for such bikes has grown significantly over the past few years, driven by an increase in outdoor recreational activities and a shift towards sustainable travel options.
As Tumbleweed Bicycle Co. continues to innovate, the Stargazer remains a key player in its lineup, attracting both seasoned bikepackers and newcomers to the sport. The strategic upgrades ensure the model stays competitive, offering enhanced performance and versatility.
For those interested in exploring the latest offerings from Tumbleweed Bicycle Co., including the new Stargazer, more information can be found on their official website.
