Our Reader’s Rig of the week is San Francisco-based illustrator Sean Hipkin’s beautiful custom sport tourer from Clockwork Bikes, which he’s built up to be equally suited for on- and off-road jaunts. Find lots of photos and a complete build overview here…

Words by Sean Hipkin (@horizonlines), photos by Will Keating

My name is Sean Hipkin, and I’m a big fan of fine steel bicycles. I have a Canadian passport, although I was born in Europe, spent my childhood in the Midwest, and landed in California. I enjoy really long bike rides at mellow speeds, and whenever possible, far away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. I usually go on one weeklong, off-road bike trip each year. Pretty much all of my bikes are ready for on- and off-road riding because why not? I currently work as a designer and illustrator. You can see my work at SeanHipkin.com (shameless plug).

Clockwork Bikes, Sean Hipkin

My bike is a lightweight custom Clockwork. It was originally built for my friend Mike, but was passed down to me after Mike decided to get the same bike built again, but taller. It’s less than a year old! Mike and I have similar taste and riding styles so I jumped at the chance to get this bike. It’s been a lovely ride.

  • Clockwork Bikes, Sean Hipkin
  • Clockwork Bikes, Sean Hipkin

Check out those hand cut lugs! Also the symmetrical fender bridge, and integrated head badge. The clear coat shows some rust and I’ve definitely scuffed it up, but I’m okay with that.

  • Clockwork Bikes, Sean Hipkin
  • Clockwork Bikes, Sean Hipkin
  • Clockwork Bikes, Sean Hipkin
  • Clockwork Bikes, Basketpacking, Sean Hipkin, Tunitas Carryall
  • Clockwork Bikes, Sean Hipkin
Clockwork Bikes, Sean Hipkin
  • Frame/Fork Custom Clockwork Sport Tourer
  • Rims 700c Velocity Dyad, 32 spoke
  • Hubs Shimano generator (front), Shimano LX (rear)
  • Tires WTB Nano 2.1″
  • Handlebars Nitto b814 3-Piece bar
  • Headset Interloc Racing Design Double Roller Drive Headset
  • Crankset Shimano XT, 30T
  • Pedals VP Thin Gripsters
  • Cassette Shimano XT 11-46T
  • Derailleur Shimano XT M8000
  • Brakes Shimano brake Levers, Paul Canti Brakes
  • Shifter(s) Shimano XT M8000
  • Saddle Brooks B17 Narrow
  • Seatpost American Classic
  • Stem Nitto UI-12 10cm stem (w/ shim)
  • Front bag Tunitas Carryall Basket Bag
  • Stem bag Randi Jo Bartender
  • Other accessories Tumbleweed T Rack
Clockwork Bikes, Sean Hipkin

You can see more from Sean on Instagram @horizonlines.

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