The market for high-performance, drop-bar bikes designed for dirt and adventure is booming, yet amidst this crowded field, No 22 Bikes consistently distinguish themselves with designs that are both innovative and aesthetically captivating. The latest testament to their prowess is the No. 22 Drifter Adventure, the newest member of the esteemed Drifter family. Our reviewer, John, spent his spring and summer putting the Drifter Adventure through its paces on his challenging Santa Fe loop, and he’s now ready to share what elevates No. 22 and this particular model above the competition.
Dive into the detailed review and expansive gallery below to discover why the No. 22 Drifter Adventure is capturing the attention of gravel enthusiasts.
The No. 22 Bikes Philosophy: A Legacy of Innovation
Our journey with no 22 bikes has been a long and fascinating one, documented through years of interactions at prestigious events like NAHBS and the Philly Bike Expo. Here, we’ve witnessed founders Bryce and Mike passionately articulate their design philosophy and unwavering commitment to titanium craftsmanship for over a decade. Even within the esteemed circle of Upstate New York custom titanium builders, a region celebrated for its cycling heritage and home to legends like Serotta, no 22 bikes consistently present a distinctive aesthetic that has garnered admiration across the industry. Every bicycle emerging from their Johnston, NY workshop defies the cookie-cutter approach, bearing testament to meticulous handcraftsmanship. The finishes are invariably flawless, and the frame details reflect a deep-seated obsession with achieving perfect form and function.
Perhaps it’s the influence of Bryce’s architectural background, but there’s an undeniable Art Deco, almost futurist sensibility to no 22 bikes. Each frame they create is meticulously designed, precisely machined, and thoughtfully engineered with a singular objective: to produce bikes that are truly exceptional in every sense. This dedication to excellence is what sets no 22 bikes apart in the world of high-end bicycles.
A few months back, the team at no 22 bikes extended an invitation to review their latest creation: the inaugural Drifter Adventure gravel bike. The timing was impeccable, aligning perfectly with the start of my rigorous summer riding schedule in Santa Fe. My go-to route, a challenging loop I typically tackle twice weekly during the summer months, carves through Northern New Mexico’s diverse and captivating eco-regions.
This route is a microcosm of the Southwest, transitioning from arid badlands to towering Ponderosa Pine forests, ascending through quaking Aspen groves, and winding amidst a thriving population of native New Mexican Douglas Fir. It’s a demanding early-season ride, a true test of fitness, but eventually, it transforms into a cherished ritual. This ride is my sanctuary, a place to disconnect from the demands of work, reconnect with my physical self, and center myself through focused breathing and cadence. This route, and the experience it offers, holds immense personal significance.
I consider this route my personal “get in shape” regimen, initiated as soon as the last vestiges of winter snow melt away. Once the trails become accessible, I venture out on a dirt road/gravel bike, climbing deep into the heart of the forest.
Mid-May marked the arrival of the first production Drifter Adventure, and since then, I’ve dedicated countless miles to exploring my cherished route aboard this remarkable machine. The bike has surpassed all expectations, though, in retrospect, this level of performance should come as no surprise. My prior encounters with no 22 bikes at various framebuilder showcases had already instilled a deep appreciation for their craftsmanship and attention to detail. However, if this review marks your introduction to no 22 bikes, prepare to be thoroughly impressed.
No. 22 bikes officially unveiled the Drifter Adventure earlier this year at Sea Otter, yet online buzz has been surprisingly subdued. Let’s rectify that and delve into the intricacies of the Drifter Adventure in exhaustive detail.
No. 22 Bikes Drifter Adventure: An Overview
Frameset Price: $5,799 / Complete Bike as Reviewed: $14,750
No. 22 bikes already boasts a compelling lineup of drop-bar, dirt-focused bikes, including the versatile Drifter all-road and the race-oriented Drifter X. However, the Drifter Adventure represents a distinct evolution, meticulously engineered to cater to a more adventurous and demanding style of gravel riding – precisely the type of riding I personally favor. Long stretches of smooth, graded gravel roads hold little appeal for me. Instead, I actively seek out challenging Forest Service roads, barely wide enough for a single vehicle, often dissolving into rugged doubletrack. I crave engagement, a genuine test of skill and endurance. Steep inclines running alongside gurgling ditches, loose rock fields, sandy patches, and rutted trails – the more demanding the terrain, the better. The Drifter Adventure proved to be the ideal companion for conquering this type of demanding landscape.
The Drifter Adventure’s geometry, which we’ll explore in greater detail shortly, is specifically tuned for this adventurous riding style. Furthermore, the frameset is replete with features designed to facilitate multi-day expeditions, including ample cargo bosses, bolt-on frame bag compatibility, generous tire clearance to accommodate voluminous rubber, and a three-pack fork mount for lightweight racks or cargo cages. And for riders in the Northeast and Northwest, yes, it even includes fender mounts, ensuring all-weather versatility.
Just in, no 22 bikes has announced the completion of their development of a solution for SRAM’s UDH/Transmission rear derailleur interface. Bryce assures us that the dropout design remains virtually unchanged from what is featured on this review bike, preserving its clean aesthetics. They’ve also finalized the design of a full titanium headset with matching spacers and top cap for their non-internal routing frames. Both of these exciting updates are slated to debut at the upcoming MADE show in August.
No. 22 Bikes Drifter Adventure: Frame Specifications
- Frame: Size-specific engineered titanium – ensuring optimal stiffness and compliance across all frame sizes, a hallmark of no 22 bikes commitment to rider-specific performance.
- Fork: No. 6 Adventure fork (not pictured on the review bike) – designed in-house by no 22 bikes to perfectly complement the Drifter Adventure frame and enhance its adventurous capabilities.
- Brake Type: Flat mount disc brakes – providing powerful and consistent braking performance in all conditions, essential for confident off-road riding.
- Tire Clearance: 50mm/700C – allowing for the use of high-volume tires to maximize comfort, traction, and control on challenging terrain.
- Front Axle Spacing: 100x12mm thru-axle – enhancing front-end stiffness and steering precision.
- Rear Axle Spacing: 142x12mm thru-axle – ensuring a stiff and responsive rear end for efficient power transfer.
- Fork Dimensions: 50mm offset, 398mm length – optimized for stable and confident handling on varied terrain.
- Derailleur Hanger: Replaceable aluminum hanger – protecting the frame in the event of damage and ensuring easy repair.
- Bottom Bracket Shell: T47 threaded, 85.5mm wide – offering a robust and creak-free bottom bracket interface, known for its durability and ease of maintenance.
- Front Derailleur Clamp Size: None – 1X ONLY – reflecting the modern preference for clean and efficient 1x drivetrains in gravel cycling.
- Seatpost Size: 27.2mm – providing a comfortable and compliant ride quality.
- No. 22 Titanium Headset Type:
- 41/52mm integrated (standard cable routing)
- 52/52mm integrated (fully internal cable routing) – offering options for both traditional and fully integrated cable routing, catering to different aesthetic and functional preferences.
- Fender Mounts: Included – enhancing versatility for all-weather riding.
- Rack Mounts: Included – further expanding the bike’s capabilities for light touring and bike packing.
- Additional Mounts: 3X bottle (ST, top of DT, underside of DT) – providing ample hydration options for long rides and adventures.
Finishing Options (Reflecting the Custom Nature of No. 22 Bikes):
- Single color ano: $550
- Anodized fade: $900
- High polish: $950
- Cerakote / Ano: $1,500 – The pinnacle of no 22 bikes finishing artistry, offering unparalleled durability and visual impact.
The size 58cm Drifter Adventure review bike, as built and weighed without bottles but including the frame bag and pedals, tipped the scales at a remarkably light 22 lbs. This low weight underscores the efficiency and performance-oriented design philosophy behind no 22 bikes.
No. 22 Bikes Drifter Adventure: Geometry Breakdown
For reference, I’m 6’2″ and 190 lbs with long legs, and I rode the size 58cm Drifter Adventure equipped with 175mm cranks, a 120mm stem, and an 80cm saddle height.
The Drifter Adventure geometry is meticulously crafted to excel on “all roads,” from smooth pavement and chipseal to hardpack gravel, rugged doubletrack, and any adventurous line you might discover on a map. This “jack of all trades” riding philosophy is reflected in key geometry figures: a 73.5º seat angle for efficient pedaling, a 71º head angle for confident stability, and a 70mm bottom bracket drop for a planted feel. The 435mm chainstays, paired with the 80mm drop, contribute to a rear end that is both responsive for spirited climbs and predictable on descents. Meanwhile, the 643mm front center and 399mm reach strike a harmonious balance, promoting all-day riding comfort without sacrificing agility. To be precise, the Drifter Adventure’s riding position occupies a sweet spot between a dedicated race bike and a more upright drop-bar mountain bike or touring machine. It’s undeniably fast and efficient, but the saddle-to-bar drop is intentionally designed for enduring comfort on long days in the saddle, rather than aggressive hour-long races – perfectly aligning with the adventurous spirit of no 22 bikes.
Details, Finish, and Build Kit of No. 22 Bikes Drifter Adventure
Let’s address the elephant in the room: build specification and price. To maintain a degree of affordability for review bikes in the handmade, luxury category (ideally keeping them under the $10,000 mark), I often lean towards reviewing cable-actuated drivetrains and mid-range component builds. However, the Drifter Adventure as tested here is far from that realm, boasting a stratospheric $14,750 price tag. Yet, my primary focus in this review remains steadfastly on the frame itself – the intricate details, the exceptional ride quality, and the undeniable craftsmanship inherent in creating a bicycle of this caliber in the USA by no 22 bikes. It’s crucial to remember that the drivetrain and component selection, while impactful, do not fundamentally define the essence of the frame. Similarly, while finishes enhance aesthetics, they are secondary to the core frame performance. However, no 22 bikes opted to showcase the Drifter Adventure in its most resplendent form, sending a stunning custom build to truly highlight its capabilities in these photographs.
Is it expensive? Undeniably. Is it attainable for the average cyclist? Realistically, no. However, a core tenet of this website is to champion the exceptional work of US framebuilders, and the opportunity to experience a no 22 bikes creation firsthand is always a privilege. Countless hours of skilled labor are invested in crafting a bicycle like this, and make no mistake, it’s engineered to be ridden, and ridden hard, despite its luxurious presentation.
Our bike reviews span a broad spectrum, from sub-$2000 gravel bikes to ultra-high-end machines like the Drifter Adventure. We strive to represent diverse price points in our product evaluations, so please don’t be deterred by the Drifter Adventure’s premium positioning. It represents the pinnacle of what no 22 bikes offers.
The Drifter Adventure frameset, encompassing the titanium frame and carbon fork from no 22 bikes, is available in a range of finishes and frame options. This particular Drifter Adventure boasts the top-tier Cerakote and anodized finish, the most premium offering from no 22 bikes. The Charcoal Green Cerakote seamlessly meets a crisp, precisely defined line of bronze anodizing. This bronze hue subtly recedes in bright sunlight, almost disappearing, only to dramatically reappear like a nocturnal spirit as the sun dips behind the mountains or the tree line.
Words struggle to adequately convey the sheer perfection of the finish. It is unequivocally impeccable, devoid of any flaw or imperfection. Areas most prone to wear and tear, such as the chainstays, are intentionally left in raw titanium, ensuring the finish retains its pristine appearance over time – a testament to no 22 bikes thoughtful design considerations. This Drifter Adventure also features bolt-on frame bag bosses on the underside of the top tube (accompanied by a custom half framebag from Field and Forest), bosses on the top of the top tube, and an abundance of cargo bosses, highlighting its adventure-ready nature.
All of the hardware adorning the bike is the result of a co-branded collaboration with Prototipo Works of Australia, underscoring no 22 bikes commitment to sourcing the finest components.
The frame incorporates fully-integrated cable routing (extending even to the generator lamp in the fork), resulting in an exceptionally clean aesthetic. Brake lines are seamlessly integrated, and there’s no port for a front derailleur cable, as this build is purposefully designed for a SRAM AXS wireless drivetrain – specifically Force AXS. However, for riders seeking maximum gear range, a mullet drivetrain configuration with a SRAM Eagle rear derailleur is a viable option, expanding the cassette range from 10-44 to a massive 10-52. It’s important to note that this iteration of the Drifter is 1x specific to accommodate the measured 700x50mm tire clearance. (The Drifter Adventure is not designed for 650b wheels).
Fender mounts are seamlessly integrated, practically disappearing into the 3D-printed dropouts. Even subtle light rack or bag support bosses are present on the seat stays – all meticulously integrated into a tight and visually appealing package characterized by flawless welds. Seriously, scrutinizing the frame, I could not detect a single imperfection in the weld beads – a testament to the unparalleled welding expertise at no 22 bikes.
It seems someone at no 22 bikes is paying close attention to my bike preferences and component choices (or perhaps my critiques from past reviews!). This Drifter Adventure arrived equipped with a Wolf Tooth 36t chainring and eeWings titanium cranks – the latter adorned with the same chevron anodizing details as the frame, a true chef’s kiss of aesthetic integration. The 36x44t gearing combination makes my favorite alpine climb comfortably achievable while still providing sufficient top-end for descents, thanks to the 10t cog on the Force cassette. However, if I were embarking on a high-country tour, I’d likely swap to a 10-50t cassette and a long(er) cage derailleur to further expand the gear range.
Even the flat-mount brakes, often a point of contention for some, feel perfectly appropriate in this application. Fundamentally, the Drifter Adventure is rooted in road bike DNA, not conceived as a fully-fledged drop-bar mountain bike or dedicated touring machine. The rotor size and overall proportions of the brakes harmonize seamlessly with the Drifter Adventure’s inherent character. It feels and looks like a cohesive, integrated ecosystem, reflecting the holistic design philosophy of no 22 bikes.
The No. 6 Adventure Fork by No. 22 Bikes: A Standout Component
About the Fork:
Initially, I advocated for Bryce at no 22 bikes to consider a steel fork for this Drifter Adventure review, but he firmly suggested I adhere to their recommended carbon offering. In retrospect, I’m immensely grateful for his guidance, as this fork is truly exceptional. Finding no existing fork that seamlessly integrated with the lines of the no 22 bikes custom head tube, the brand undertook the development of their own, mirroring their approach with all their other models. This commitment to in-house design and engineering is a hallmark of no 22 bikes.
It’s important to note that the fork equipped on this review bike is a ‘stepping-stone’ towards their final iteration, which will become standard on this model and available to the aftermarket through the company’s No. 6 Composites site starting in September (with a public debut expected at MADE). This underscores no 22 bikes commitment to continuous refinement and innovation.
The No. 6 Adventure fork features a 50mm offset and a 398mm axle-to-crown measurement at the geometric level. It’s specifically designed for fender compatibility and incorporates integrated dynamo routing, a front-facing light mount, and cargo bosses – essentially, the fork that modern adventure cyclists demand.
While the final production version will not include the flip-chip featured on the review fork, it will proudly showcase no 22 bikes signature 3D-printed titanium fork blade plate and be offered in both semi-internal and fully-internal routing configurations, providing riders with customization options.
Beyond the technical specifications and aesthetic nuances, the most striking aspect of this fork is its remarkable compliance. It exhibits a noticeable degree of flex in all the right directions. While lateral stiffness remains unwavering – a testament to the thru-axle design – you can visually perceive the fork flexing along the fore/aft axis of the bike. While not as pronounced as the flex of a traditional 20mm blade steel fork, it surpasses the compliance of other carbon forks I’ve experienced. You can even observe this flex at slow speeds on pavement simply by modulating the front brake. This design philosophy is brilliantly logical. Why compromise the wonderfully supple and fluid ride quality of a titanium frame by pairing it with a jarringly stiff, teeth-chattering carbon fork? Bryce assures me that the final production version of the No. 6 Adventure fork will retain similar ride characteristics while incorporating further structural refinements, continuing no 22 bikes dedication to optimized performance.
Speaking of titanium…
The Unmistakable Ride Quality of No. 22 Bikes Titanium
Ride Quality:
In the realm of frame materials, titanium reigns supreme. If your pursuit is the ultimate ride experience – characterized by unparalleled smoothness, longevity, and a sublime feel – titanium is the definitive answer. Yes, it commands a premium price, and it’s crucial to acknowledge that not all titanium is created or engineered to the same standard. I’ve ridden titanium bikes exhibiting stiffness levels exceeding steel or carbon, and conversely, others that felt disconcertingly flexy (in a detrimental way). Therefore, partnering with a team of highly skilled designers, machinists, and welders, boasting extensive industry experience, is paramount to ensure your frames deliver the intended ride characteristics. Beyond expertise, no 22 bikes meticulously custom-engineers each frame size, selecting appropriately specified titanium tubing based on anticipated rider weight and riding style. This means a size 58, like the review bike, will employ a distinctly different tubing specification compared to a size 48. Because, logically, it should. And for riders whose weight or riding preferences fall outside the stock sizing parameters, no 22 bikes offers fully-custom bicycle builds, ensuring a truly personalized fit and ride experience. Given the significant investment these bikes represent, a perfect fit in every dimension is not merely desirable, but essential.
The title of this review, “Lightfooted and Fancy,” aptly captures the essence of the Drifter Adventure. “Fancy” alludes to the high-end build kit and refined aesthetics, while “Lightfooted” perfectly encapsulates the bike’s ethereal ride quality. Having previously sold my beloved Firefly all-road bike, I’ve keenly missed the intoxicating and addictive sensation of riding a titanium drop-bar machine. The Drifter Adventure’s riding position aligns more closely with my current riding preferences compared to the Firefly, which was tailored to a younger, speed-obsessed version of myself circa 2015. With a slightly taller stack height, a shorter reach, and a stable yet responsive wheelbase, the Drifter Adventure exhibits remarkable acceleration while maintaining a planted and predictable demeanor. Furthermore, disc brake integration in modern titanium bikes has progressed significantly, enhancing both performance and aesthetics. No 22 bikes has clearly mastered this integration.
The frame itself exhibits a subtle degree of lateral sway, particularly noticeable during out-of-the-saddle efforts on steep climbs. However, during seated climbing and extended flat sections, this sway virtually disappears beneath you, becoming imperceptible. The titanium seatpost and stem further contribute to vibration damping and chatter reduction, while flexing subtly when necessary to enhance comfort. What I appreciate most about no 22 bikes execution of the Drifter Adventure is its impeccably balanced ride character. It responds eagerly when you demand speed, yet on those days when legs are fatigued, it provides a comfortable and forgiving platform, ideal for embracing long, grinding climbs.
My most cherished moments aboard the Drifter Adventure were experienced on long, rutted, and loose descents. Comfortably positioned in the drops, often without even engaging the brake levers, the bike instilled immense confidence. When you possess familiarity with the terrain and its optimal lines, the Drifter Adventure seamlessly allows you to dissolve into the rhythm of the road, enhancing the pure joy of riding.
TL;DR: The No. 22 Bikes Drifter Adventure Verdict
TL;DR and The Takeaway:
It comes as no surprise that no 22 bikes commitment to clean, sharp aesthetics translates directly into a bicycle with a remarkably surefooted and stable ride quality. In this instance, judging a book by its cover proves entirely accurate. Unfortunately, that exquisite “cover” carries a premium price tag, placing it within reach of only those who can afford such luxuries. However, this is inherent to the realm of high-end custom bicycles. Personally, I would sooner consider securing a bank loan or diligently saving for several years to acquire a titanium bike of this caliber – one that will retain long-term value, eschew engineered obsolescence, and is built with enduring quality in mind – than invest in a comparably priced $14,000 carbon road bike from any of the mass-market brands. No 22 bikes offers a superior and more enduring value proposition.
What truly distinguishes the new Drifter Adventure is how seamlessly it embodies the prevailing zeitgeist in gravel cycling – a spirit of adventure and versatility. This focus isn’t merely an afterthought; it’s deeply ingrained in the frameset’s DNA. Rack mounts, cargo cage provisions, supplementary bottle bosses, and frame bag compatibility are all abundant on a bike that appears equally stunning stripped down to its bare essence or fully loaded for a brevet or S24O adventure. No 22 bikes has masterfully blended performance and practicality.
If it were my personal funds, I would opt for the Raw Titanium Drifter Adventure frameset and build it utilizing components from my existing gravel bike. Investing over $14,000 in a complete bike is undeniably extravagant and positions it firmly within a luxury tier inaccessible to most. However, the Drifter Adventure frameset represents a significantly finer foundation than anything constructed from “plastic” (carbon fiber) offered by larger brands. Hands down. For discerning cyclists seeking the pinnacle of gravel performance and enduring value, no 22 bikes is the clear choice.
No. 22 Drifter Adventure bike in a scenic outdoor setting emphasizing its adventure capabilities
I found immense enjoyment in utilizing the Drifter Adventure as my gravel companion to regain fitness after a protracted winter. The prospect of riding my favorite long loop on the Drifter Adventure required absolutely no mental coercion – and that, ultimately, is the essence of what your bicycle should represent to you: an invitation to ride, explore, and enjoy. No 22 bikes delivers precisely this experience.
No. 22 Bikes Drifter Adventure: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Made in the USA – supporting domestic craftsmanship and ensuring high quality standards, a core value of no 22 bikes.
- Titanium – offering unparalleled ride quality, durability, and longevity, the signature material of no 22 bikes.
- Lightweight – enhancing climbing efficiency and overall agility.
- Customizable – allowing riders to tailor the bike to their specific needs and preferences, a hallmark of no 22 bikes approach.
- Adaptable – capable of handling a wide range of terrains and riding styles.
- Details are impeccable – reflecting meticulous attention to craftsmanship and design, synonymous with no 22 bikes.
- 50mm tire clearance – providing versatility for varied terrain and enhanced comfort.
- Light touring accouterments – expanding the bike’s capabilities for adventure riding.
- Welds are pristine – showcasing exceptional welding skill and titanium fabrication expertise at no 22 bikes.
Cons:
- Expensive – reflecting the premium materials, craftsmanship, and USA manufacturing of no 22 bikes.
Have questions? Think we overlooked something? Share your queries in the comments section below. Explore further details at No. 22 Bicycles.
