Striving for superiority, not quantity: We focus on crafting outstanding bicycles
Struttin' in the saddle since '89, Miguel Indurain's Tour de France-winning steel-framed beauty has been outmatched by carbon-fibre creations... But why, oh why, do steel and titanium bikes still get our hearts a-racing some 30 years later?
Don't fancy your old bike collectin' dust in the corner? Fear not, 'cause there's no shortage of fresh-outta-the-box steel and titanium rides with all the latest gear that demand your attention and wallet. And guess what? Colnago's got a new, limited-edition steel baby called Steelnovo that boasted a whopping £15k price tag, and lemme tell ya, all 70 units sold out faster than pancakes at a diner on Saturday morn'.
Got that classic, timeless charm goin' on? Maybe you swear by bikes that're more about feelings than figures? Well, steel and titanium bikes have got it all: they're custom-built, crafted with passion by artisans, ain't no factory-machine work here, son. So why let go of the emotional attachment and ride off with a carbon fibre bike that feels just like every other one out there?
Critics will argue that when it comes to bicycle performance, carbon is king. But they ain't accounted for ride quality. Steel and titanium frames are known for their "zing", their forgiveness, their comfort - if you're after that unique, personalized experience, then move over carbon, steel's here to stay.
Remember John Wainwright? Pro cyclist back in the 80's? He had two identical 753 steel frames - one he loved, the other he left ignored for the whole season. Could carbon ever evoke that kind of connection? Hell, no. And it's not just about emotion; there's soul in a steel or titanium bike.
Take, for instance, Fairlight Cycles, a specialist frame builder that revolutionizes steel frames by hand, transforming the metal into a work of art. The process gives their bikes more character, more charm, more life. Can an off-the-rack carbon bike compete with that? I think not.
Custom geometry, color choice, and tube types are just a few more factors that steel frame builders love to discuss, giving clients a say in the process and leaving a lasting impression that an off-the-shelf carbon purchase can't muster.
If durability, utility, long-lastingness, repairability, and the environment matter to you, meet your new best friends: steel or titanium. Lightweight, tough Gravel and Bikepacking bikes can't resist 'em; and when you're in a bind on an extended tour, it's a whole lot easier to find a welder than a carbon-fiber expert in that remote corner of eastern Europe.
think you've gotta be a romantically-minded consumer to be drawn to steel or titanium bikes? Think again. They're a smart, environmentally-friendly choice too, with reduced carbon emissions compared to carbon-fibre production.
Still worried steel or titanium bikes are not as fast as carbon? Well, faster isn't everything. Comfort can make you travel further and faster, especially on long rides. So choose wisely, as the right bike can mean the difference between a pleasant, enthusiastic journey… or an unpleasant, rushed one.
Cherishing your old bike, riding it and taking pride in its classic looks? Skip the cafe huddle; the steel bike crowd is here to admire your well-loved machine along with you. Music lovers listen to vinyl, car enthusiasts opt for wood-chassis Morgans - owning a steel or titanium bike is a way to show off your discerning taste.
So, what makes the steely, titanium soulmate tick? Durability, comfort, ride quality, and craftsmanship, mates. That's what. Learn to love 'em, 'cause fast-moving technology won't make these beauties obsolete anytime soon. So quit comparing performance stats; grab a cold brew, and take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship, the community, and the personal touch that steel and titanium bikes bring to your life.
Some riders cherish the traditional, personalized experience that comes with steel or titanium bikes, as these are custom-built, crafted with passion, and tend to evoke emotional connections. Even though carbon fibre bikes might be faster, the unique ride quality, comfort, and soul of a steel or titanium bike make them a smart, environmentally-friendly choice for long rides and durable, utility purposes, especially on Gravel and Bikepacking adventures.
