Sophie Gateau’s Mythical Mountain Adventure

Hammerhead ambassador Sophie Gateau needed a unique bike for her summer wandering of the Pyrenees. This year’s Concours des Machines MTB bike-packing adventure theme was “a machine built to explore remote and mythical mountains.” The competition followed in the footsteps of the 1902 edition, with simple– yet demanding—requirements:

• Two days of autonomous riding
• A minimum of 50mm wide tires
• 170 kilometers and 5,200 meters of ascent
• A uniquely designed bike with bespoke suspension

Sophie’s route of choice included the famous Col du Tourmalet and an arduous carry-a-bike section to the observatory of the Pic du Midi with its breathtaking view.

Gateau’s bike blended handcrafted style with elegant technology - right down to her trusted Karoo. She worked with Simon from Cycles Soca, a small frame builder in Caen in Normandy, France, to create this mythical machine. After all, such a light and capable mountain bike is ideal for riders like Gateau, who bring just what they need and venture into lofty places.