Bespoked Bristol 2018 — handmade bicycle show
Bespoked is the UK’s premier showcase of handmade bicycles and those who make them. Taking place in the heart of Bristol, at Brunel’s Old Station, from 20–22 April, at the show you’ll be able to meet artisan frame builders and cycle craftspeople, and check out some of the world’s most incredible bespoke bikes.
With the weekend looming, and exhibitors putting the final touches to their stands, we feature some of the stands you won’t want to miss and some of the events we’re most looking forward to.
Bristol GP’s three stands not to miss
Colourburn Studio - What began as a project fuelled by passion has grown into an internationally renowned paint workshop based right here in Bristol. The recently unveiled custom paintjob for Miguel Angel Lopez created by the team is already breaking the internet and you’ll be sure to find lots more exciting works of art (that happen to be on bikes) at their stand. http://colourburnstudio.com
Saddleback/Chris King - The first 5 people each day to bring a King component to the manufacturer’s stand will have them serviced by Mr King himself. In addition, the person to bring the oldest (verified by serial number) King component to the stand will win the modern equivalent! https://chrisking.com
Saffron Frameworks - Saffron Frameworks produce some of the most beautiful bespoke frames on the market, but also have a real racing pedigree. Pro Dan Craven recently chose to race their insanely desirable Columbus XCR stainless steel build at the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Whilst this bike won’t be on show at Bespoked, all builds are ‘real’ customer rides, not show bikes - so you can expect the same exceptional quality if you were to order one for yourself. http://www.saffronframeworks.com
Bristol GP’s three recommended events
Friday 20 April, 4pm
When Framebuilding Becomes Art
The Making of Grayson Perry’s Princess Freedom Bicycle by Petor Georgallou of Dear Susan.
Sometimes the focus on speed and racing can make you forget why we all fell in love with cycling in the first place. Take a bit of time out and find out a bit more about a project which was undoubtedly a lot of fun by keen cyclist and incredible artist Grayson Perry. The bike featured was on display at the Arnolfini this year, so there’s a real Bristol connection to this incredible story.
Saturday 21 April, 12.30pm
Divided - Film and Q&A
Last year, Rickie Cotter and Lee Craigie rode the Tour Divide, a 2,745 mile self-supported mountain bike race from Canada to Mexico. They captured their highly eventful journey, with all its twists and turns. The film will be shown at the show, and be followed by a Q&A with both athletes.
If this doesn’t make you want to pack your bags and head out on an adventure we don’t know what will!
Sunday 22 April, 1pm
Framebuilder Q & A
If you are interested in the incredible art and science of framebuilding, then you won’t want to miss this. Score a ticket and you’ll have the unique opportunity to put your questions to a handpicked panel of industry leaders from the framebuilding world.
Panel members include:
- Matthew - Saffron Frameworks
- Harry - Field Cycles
- Eric - Winter Bicycles
- Owen - Donnard
- Adeline - Mercredi
If you’re not interested in the art of frame-building then you’re probably in the wrong place at Bespoked. Here you’ll find a small selection of builders demonstrating the incredible wealth of talent present at the show. They’re ready and willing to share their insights into this dark art. There’s not much these guys don’t know…
We hope you enjoy Bespoked this year. We know we will. Full details of events and exhibitors on the following links:
If you’re at Bespoked, tag your images #BristolGP and share them with us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook for the chance to win a limited edition Bristol GP t-shirt.
Lead image: Bristol Graffiti, credit Mec Rawlings
