The Bike Rack Ep. 2
If you’re looking to put some coin in a new set of quality wheels, better know what’s best. This week the Bike Rack helps you choose between all the brands out there when it comes to performance bicycles. As with our last entry, Damien V. helps us sort out who’s who in the world of two-wheelers.
Cinelli – Milanese fashion
Founded in 1940 by Cino Cenilli, the Italian firm focuses on both bikes and components. The brand is easily recognisable through its famous logo that features a knight’s helmet with a red lily and a green serpent. Cinelli is an historical brand famous for inventions such as Binda toe-straps and the first Italian mountain bike: the Rampichino . Nowadays, the Cinelli star product is its MASH frame-sets. Made in carbon-fiber, they’re all the rage right now.
Argon – French Technology and Performance
Argon provides quality bikes for all occasions. Are you professional cyclist? A triathlon enthusiast? Or do you simply enjoy the sunday ride-out with your friends? Argon has the bike for you. Having heavily invested in R&D, the company boasts more innovative components than its competitors. In fact, you might find the comfort/performance ratio on Argon bikes to be the best on the current market. Expect to spend a pretty penny!
Planet X Bikes – No Nonsense
A direct competitor to Argon, Planet X is perhaps a little bit more affordable. Based in the North of the UK, the brand offers the best range of performance bikes for all types of rural and urban terrain. With free-worldwide shipping, quick and easy returns and finance options available, it might your best option if this is your first serious purchase.
Colnago – Vintage & Heritage
The second Italian manufacturer in our list also boasts a long rich past. Founded by Ernesto Colnago, former mechanic to Eddy Merckx, the company celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. One of the first to dabble in carbon-fiber, the Colgano bikes remain an exclusivity. Today the brand is still present on the Tour de France with the C59 Model being used by the Europcar team.
Brick Lane Bikes – East London Fixies
Undoubtedly the most hipster brand in our list, BLB hails straight from the busy bike scene that is London. BLB doesn’t necessarily build from scratch its own bikes but rather assembles them in their historical shop on Bethnal Green Road, East London. The brainchild of a former courrier, the brand has exploded over the past couple of year. Working in partnership with numerous brands, it currently sets the trend with anything to do with the new bike culture.
As always, if you have any comments or questions regarding the Bike Rack, please drop us a line and we’ll be happy to answer you with the help of Damien V !
Ride Safe !