Parlee's magic further explained...

We've been told that the most frequent question the guys at Parlee get is: "What is the difference between the different models?" That question is at once simple and complex - as the major differentiating factors are quite simple to spot, but the benefits are somewhat technical. To begin the explanation, here's a picture of the 62cm Parlee Z3 we just received at the Beaverton store (All photos have larger versions - click for the bigger photo).Parlee Z3, 62cm with it's 7 degree sloped top tube and wishbone seat stays

The Z2 and Z3 frame sets are nearly identical. Both have the same rider-specific tube and lug options for maximized ride-tuning. Both use a wishbone seat stay configuration; with the left and right seat stay joining into one single unit just below the rear brake bolt. And, both can be built using stock Parlee geometry or made-to-measure. However, the Z2 utilizes a more traditional, horizontal top tube configuration which results in a slightly heavier, more compliant frame with a very traditional look (the top tube of the Z2 can actually be sloped up to a nearly undetectable 3 degrees as needed or desired). The Z3 is built with 7 degrees of top tube slope. (Giant TCR frames are 9 degrees.) When made-to order, this slope - while a pre-determined amount - can be used a couple of different ways for different effects. First, the frame can be built in a "compact" configuration merely reducing the height of the seat tube and length of the seat stays; marginally reducing the weight of the frame . Secondarily, the frame can be built in a "sloping" configuration; still reducing the size of the rear triangle, but also allowing for a slightly taller head tube without compromising the rider's stand-over height on the frame. A taller head-tube results in a slightly more relaxed riding position without sacrificing as much front-end stiffness (when compared to tall stems or tall spacer stacks under the stem) and also work well for long-legged, or shorter-armed riders.

In the Z3 picture below, you can see; along with the beautifully detailed hand-wrapped tube junction, the slight slope of the top tube as it radiates forward to the front of the bike. Also visible, although only slightly, is the wishbone seat stay configuration.Parlee Z3 seat cluster

Parlee's wishbone seat stay is manufactured to their exacting specifications by Edge Composites of Ogden, Utah, makers of high quality carbon fiber composite frame components and rims. Edge custom manufactures Parlee's private label forks and round tubes as well (Parlee does also occasionally use Alpha Q forks from TrueTemper as seen on this 62cm Z3 and Reynolds Ouzo forks - although the use of these is being phased out as their private label fork becomes available in more rake options). Wishbone seat stays are currently very popular in the bike industry and are used on a majority of bicycles. Their pre-fabricated nature is cost-effective and since they meet the seat cluster at only one point - they are a very easy way to build a frame that is straight and well aligned. They are also relatively vertically compliant - resulting in a more comfortable ride. However, they are not the most horizontally stiff configuration for a seat stay. More on that later.

A front-end view highlighting the hand-wrapped head-tube junction and the Alpha Q fork used on this really big Z3.

This brings us to the flagship model - the Z1. Let's pause for a moment to bask in the beauty of the 58cm specimen we just received in Beaverton:

Parlee Z1, 58cm, Dura Ace 7800, Bontrager Race XXX Lite carbon clincher wheels

The Z1 was the original; and is still the most versatile, frame that Parlee builds in the Peabody, Massachusetts workshop. The Z1 has the same options for tubes and joints as the Z2 and Z3; resulting in a highly tunable frame. The real secret to the Z1's superior tunability and performance is the aforementioned seat stay configuration - a more traditional "A-stay" format; as can be seen in the photo below (and in more detail in the last photo).

Z1 with custom, full-carbon Parlee fork from Edge Composites

The A-stay has traditionally been the preferred format - that being two separate frame elements coming up from the rear hub area and connecting directly to the seat-cluster, often joined by a cross-bracing "brake bridge" directly above the rear wheel. This provides a place to mount a caliper style brake and adds a moderate amount of stiffness to the rear end. This also adds to the "A" look of this configuration.

The A-stay is a much more difficult method of construction. Unlike the simple, single-point junction of a wishbone - which is quick and cheap - the A-stay requires that two bodies be precision cut, mitered, and aligned in order to build a properly constructed and, of course - straight - frame. However, the price for this added amount of attention to detail is slightly reduced weight, additional stiffness and strength, and in the case of the Z1, an additional amount of ride-tuning capacity as there are more options for these seat stays than the wishbone style. There is a slight pricing premium for a Z1 - but Parlee believes they are able to deliver a product which is more than worth the extra cost - as do I.

The gorgeous A-stay of the Z1

An additional little fact about the Z1 is one that can be claimed by very few other small-label frames: This frame has been re-labeled and ridden by several world-class pro riders - most famously as a Look frame ridden by Tyler Hamilton while with Team CSC. Pros are notoriously picky and won't ride something that doesn't deliver an immediate, noticeable advantage. They'll often hoard out-of-production parts and components (like pedals, saddles, and handlebars) because it is what they deem to be the best for them. For a discerning, experienced Pro to trust a small builder in this world of mass produced "super bikes" is a huge vote of confidence and Parlee has earned every vote.

To view and experience these wonderfully different dream-machines, come see us at Bike Gallery.