Phillip Bannister (Putney/West Hill) took a decisive win in the Masters 65-69 category at the 2015 Cyclocross Nationals, crossing the line solo after distancing himself from a group of four riders that had previously remained with him at the front of the race. After his win, we took a closer look at Bannister’s winning ride, a custom Parlee CX.
Use the arrows to navigate through the images, and check back for more 2015 Nationals bike profiles (we’ve captured each winner’s bike!).
Bannister brought one bike to Nationals. No pit bike, no spare wheels or other tire treads. Ride what you brung, and hope for the best was his philosophy. Who can blame him for not wanting to hop off such a high-end custom ride?
As you’ll see in the images that follow, Bannister’s Parlee is a blend of modern race machine with a hint of of classic bike building through both frame design and choice of some thoughtfully selected componentry.
Bannister is no stranger to National Championship titles, having won the 60-64 category way back in 2008, and raced the same Parlee to win the 65-69 Masters 2014 National Championship in Boulder. The Parlee CX uses lugged carbon construction and a wishbone seat stay to blend compliance with rigidity. Five size options are available with pre-specified geometry as well as complete custom builds. Bannister is quick to point out he spends a few days a week working in the famed West Hill shop, implying he got deals to build up what looks like quite a pricey, high-end ride.
Phillip Bannister’s race winning Parlee CX cyclocross bike blends modern materials and components with a hit of classic style. © Cyclocrosss Magazine
