We tested the Brother Kepler Disc last year, and had a great time on it, riding through the endless summer. We had so much fun that by the time our review came out, only a few frames were left. Fear not though, the 2019 version is now available.
What’s changed?
This isn’t a case of a whole new bike from Brother: evolution, not revolution and all that jazz. It’s understandable, as the previous model was pretty good.
The frame is still classic double-butted chromoly (we loved how comfortable this was), but the major changes are designed to make the Kepler a little more capable:
- Increased tyre clearance for 700c x 45 / 650b x 48
- Replaceable derailleur hanger
- Additional bottle mounts under the down tube
- Extra eyelets on fork ends
- WTB tyres and saddle on the complete bike
- Available in dark blue and an all new fade
Brother sees the Kepler Disc as a commuter/tourer/gravel bike and we can definitely see the extra mounts and eyelets making it more attractive to those looking for an off-road touring bike. The increase in tyre clearance is also great to see – we love the feel of slightly higher volume tyres and the comfort that that brings.
Interestingly, the Kepler Disc still has a 1 1/8in headtube and quick release wheel axles. Neither of these things are bad in any way, but are increasingly rarely spotted as most companies have moved to bolt thru and headtubes for tapered steerers.
Availability
The Kepler Disc is available now as either a frame/forks package at £525, or a full build with SRAM Apex1 groupset and TRP Spyre cable brakes for £1675.
