The Radavist

Bespoked brings us yet another UK framebuilder profile with Saffron Frameworks. I particularly like this series because it gives you an inside look into the minds of custom frame builders and when it comes to UK companies, I rarely get that glimpse.

Do you know the story behind Porterlight Bicycles? I didn’t but now I’m glad I do…

In the winter months, sometimes it’s hard to carry everything you need for a long-distance ride in just a jersey pocket. Oftentimes you’ll need a hardshell, a baselayer, arm or leg warmers and warm gloves. Sure you can put all that on and be fine, but as the day goes on and it gets warmer, you’ll shed a few layers. That’s why I like bags like Big x Top’s Mini Saddle Bag. It isn’t an all-out touring bag, but it offers some easy-to-access extra space for your gear.

I think everyone can agree with the sentiments in this video, now we’ve all just got to act on them!

This week Hope announced their new made in the UK carbon seatpost which touts the weight (195g) for a road or XC rig, but is strong enough for DH riding. Hope can do no wrong in my opinion and I can’t wait to see one of these in person, late March. For now, check out more information at Hope!

UK hub manufacturer Hope brings us in for a close look at what makes their Pro 4 hubs some of the best hubs in the world. I love videos like this, it really does make you want to support Hope products!

See more at Hope.

Charge delivers a bit of holiday cheer with their Cooker 27.5+ and a lotta style.

After seeing Nils’ cargo bike roll out with a camp grill at a recent LA River Camp Coffee, suddenly the idea of utilizing a bike like that for over-the-top forest picnics has piqued my interest. Here’s Sven Cycles‘ take on that platform. Tested thoroughly over the course of a few months, this bike was designed and built specifically for a local chef and as you can see, is really capable of hauling everything you need for an afternoon meal in the woods.

Projects like this, especially when they come from the shop of a framebuilder, really make me happy!

This year for Eurobike, ENVE contacted one of their favorite British frame builders to design a bike for their booth. Harry from Field Cycles is best known (over here in the US anyway) for bright paint and his unique tubing selection. Both of which were turned a few notches for this unique bike.

Check out more photos and full tubing specs below!

I absolutely love frame builder profile videos, especially when they’re of shops I’ve never visited. This one features Matthew Sowter of Saffron Frameworks out of London.

We’re a big fan of hardtail MTBs over here. They’re easy to make domestically, easy to maintain, lightweight and best of all, with the right geometry and components, you can take on just about any trail. Stanton Bikes in the UK show us how it’s done on their new Switchback 631.

Two mates attempted to ride the length of Great Britain during the coldest March on record in 54 years…

Charge delivers a bugga’ of a good time video featuring their new Cooker 27+ MTB. I love all the Australianisms.

Coming off the Eroica California and the Emilio De Marchi rides, I’m kind of bummed to be missing this year’s Eroica Britannia. Last year’s event was a ton of fun, so if you were on the fence about attending, head over to the 2014 Eroica Britannia Reportage… If you are planning on going, head over to Eroica Britannia to sign up!

… and Cotic Bikes agrees!

Death Spray Custom’s “Deadly Sin” fork collection continues with envy, a snakeskin pattern rendered in neon hulk, poisonous metallic snake green and glock metal black. If you’ve ever wanted one of these pieces of art, now’s your chance. Head over to Death Spray Custom for ordering.