Among the two-wheeled disciples who spend their Sundays sweating into expensive Lycra, few things elevate you above the masses more quickly than a handmade bicycle. A bespoke frame is completely unique. It’s engineered to your exact specifications and riding style. It’s you in a bike. They are expensive, but not crazily so, and they’ll last you a lifetime in the saddle.
This weekend the sixth annual Bespoked show takes place in Bristol, showcasing dozens of small-scale builders and suppliers. One to look out for is Jake Rusby. He’s a sculptor turned frame builder whose bikes really are works of art. You can even visit his studio to watch your bike being welded together and your chosen components added. Just don’t hang it on the wall (rusbycycles.co.uk).
Price: from £1,350
Frame: steel
Build time: 4-6 months
It’s behind you…
A few years ago some pro-cycling teams started using “saddle cams” to give fans an unprecedented rider’s-eye view of life in the peloton. Most of the cameras are fitted to the seat post and record what is happening behind the racer. The thrill of a bunch sprint is unbelievable – though you always end up feeling slightly sick watching the footage as you can only look backwards.
Anyway, you can now record what happens behind you thanks to a new device from a firm called Cycliq. It began after a successful Kickstarter campaign in 2014 and is now making the Fly6. It’s an HD camera combined with a very bright rear light. It costs £99. A forward-facing camera called the Fly12 will also soon be available.
It’s incredibly easy to use. Plug it into your computer to charge it, clip it to your seat post and you have a usable rear light. However during the day you can use the same device to record all the action from the road. You get sound and great quality footage. The battery lasts for up to six hours and the camera can be used in any weather conditions. After your ride, flip out the tiny SD card and simply load and edit on your computer.
There is clearly a safety aspect to this. I suppose when you get knocked off your bike you can later view the footage to see who hit you. I have taped a few commutes through central London and it is horrifying. I made the mistake of showing my wife and she is now trying to ban me from riding. I’d rather not know just how close those taxis were…
However, I think you should use the Fly6 for much happier events. A weekend ride with your mates, maybe. What price to see the look on your friends’ faces as you pass them on a long climb? I’m heading for the hills this weekend and will certainly be capturing the fun…
Cycliq, £99, is distributed exclusively in the UK by Raleigh (cycliq.com)
Email Martin at martin.love@observer.co.uk or follow him on Twitter @MartinLove166
