7 must have items of British-made cycling regalia
Last week’s Made in Britain debate with the MD of Brompton Bikes got us thinking about cycling and the accoutrements that go with it. Can you kit out both yourself and your bicycle only with British-made products? You most certainly can. Here are 8 items that we’ve found, do you know of any more?
The Pashley Tube Rider Pintail: Pashley hand build all their bikes in Stratford-upon-Avon and are best known for their upright classic models such as the Princess and the Governor. Recently they introduced this little beauty into the range, known as the Tube Rider, available in 5 limited edition colour combinations. Our favourite is the Pintail – a retro mix of duck egg blue and orange. www.Pashley.co.uk
A Cambridge Raincoat: The Cambridge Raincoat Company’s cycling coats are made especially for keeping the wearers knees dry when riding an upright bike like the Pashley. Made from Nylon Taslan, a lightweight, waterproof and breathable fabric; they are available in 4 bright colours, all with a polka dot lining. www.cambridgeraincoats.co.uk
The Veloman ‘Strand’ Umbrella Set by Once Was England: This nifty little number attaches your brolly to your bike. Made from showerproof canvas duck and bridle leather, it comes complete with its own Whangee crook handled telescopic umbrella made by Fox of England. www.oncewasengland.com
A Dashing Tweeds LumatwillTM Cape: Made from a unique weave of wool worsted and reflective yarn, offering an alternative to the reflective vest for the more discerning cyclist. A modern classic. www.dashingtweeds.co.uk
A Grass Shopper by Marsupial Bags: Here’s something more out of the ordinary – a bike bag that is made from Astroturf! The Grass Shopper can be used as a basket or a pannier, and you can customise it with a choice of 7 different flowers and 4 colours of waterproof lining. All made by hand in the Marsupial workshop in Middlesex. www.marsupialbags.co.uk
The Mr Ben by Moody & Farrell for Bobbin Cycles: Although the technical helmet part of this hat is actually made in Denmark, the very British fur felt bowler that sits a-top it is handstitched in London, so we figure it qualifies. That other most British of hats, the Deerstalker, is also available in a cycle helmet too. www.moodyandfarrell.co.uk
Purple Harry Bike Floss: Purple Harry describe their products as ‘aimed at the connoisseur who takes as much pride in maintaining their steed as they do riding it’. Their unique Bike Floss product is kind of like dental floss, but for those difficult to clean places on your bike. Included here because it is manufactured in Yorkshire, and also because we love the name Bike Floss! www.purpleharry.co.uk
Do you know of any other British-made clothing or accessories for cycling that aren’t listed above? Please let us know in the comments below…
