Just hours after the rumours of a new Moulton model seemed to be too frequent to ignore, it seems that this model has been publicised in Japan earlier this month. It's called the Moulton AM Esprit.
Very similar to an AM except:
- lighter
- straight bottom tube
- solid rubber rear suspension, no fluid damped hydrolastic. Presumably, no flexitor rear pivot either.
- wider, more rigid frame.
- larger diameter tubes in the chainstay
- 31.6mm diameter seat post
It also looks like there's no Unified Rear Triangle unlike the TSR. It will be cheaper than the current AM, but more expensive than the TSR.
It's not clear whether this is seen as a new model, or simply an updating of the existing AM range. Questions about whether existing racks and luggage will fit remain to be answered. In any case, it seems the strategy is to bring the AM slightly down market to make clear space between it and the New Series, and bringing it into competition with the Pashley built TSR 30.
Watch this space!!
It also looks to lack seperability, presumably to keep the price down.
And it also looks like it has the latest wishbone stem, as seen on the twin pylon.
From an internet translation of the Dynavector page:
Hairpin frame construction;
Beefed up chain stays and rear drop outs;
Choice of 130mm or 135mm rear triangles;
Seperable or rigid frame;
Choice of ahead or conventional headsets;
Two frame sizes and a choiuce of low or high head design;
Velocity rims with offset spoking in the rear to reduce dish (I’ve seen a wheel built up and it’s lovely!);
Colour choice – steeley grey or steeley grey!