I have a couple of bikes here in Melbourne, but all I want for Christmas is my Rodano.
It’s currently sitting in Tuscany, patiently waiting for our return.
After talking to a friend this week about the the prospect of him having to wait for a new bike to arrive into store well into next year given current shortages, it started me thinking about bikes and the next one, and waiting for a mass produced model versus waiting a little extra time to have a bespoke, made to measure bike created for you.
For me it’s a simple decision, to share with the builder your riding style and your level of flexibility, as well as the characteristics that you would like from the frame.
So what is the next one?
It will be steel for sure, or do I venture further along the line and into a frame built from stainless steel, with the Columbus XCr or further along again, taking the plunge into the titanium world.
Will it be modern with a tie back to history or a classic with a modern group set?
The choices, the choices.
My current Stelbel Rodano is without a doubt the nicest bike to ride that I have owned. It is however not just the riding experience that I am drawn to. It’s the history and back story of the brand that is built out of innovation and excellence. This attention to detail is still carried forward today – when a brand constantly researches new ways and tests metals, tubing and new prototypes with partners who are at the top of their field to ensure that each element is being used in the most optimum way, and the resulting frame is fit for decades of use on the road, you know you’re dealing with quality.
It has been a pleasure this year to share the experience that I had during the ordering process to help guide a couple of our Italian cycling tour guests and make their dream a reality, in purchasing a custom Stelbel.
Below are a couple of complete bikes that were delivered this year.
An Antenore with a Campagnolo Super Record disc groupset.
A Rodano with a 12 speed Campagnolo Chorus groupset.
If you would like to put a silver lining on 2020 and investigate what’s involved in making your next bike, your best bike, get in touch with Damian via email here or call on 0410 651 573.
Whatever your dream bike is, with our local help and expertise, and the Stelbel crew guiding the way, you should know that you’ll be in good hands and your dream bike will become a reality.