Market: Polish manufacturer KROSS is currently building its own frame factory directly at its headquarters near Warsaw. What's special about it: It will focus exclusively on carbon as a material. This is made possible, among other things, by EU funding for the region. Initially, the company will focus exclusively on research before eventually moving on to production... read more
Last week, we already featured the first part of the frame-building story from the current issue of Cyclist. Today, the frame is being soldered and receiving the finishing touches. The trick with cleanliness: Mitering the tubes, i.e., adjusting the tube ends so they fit together, sounds simple. Measure the tube, mark it, and file it. 15 minutes later, I'm delighted... read more
The only thing more personal than a custom frame is a custom frame you've built yourself. Cyclist is visiting Bicycles by Design and taking on new challenges. "By Friday afternoon, this will be your new road bike," Pete Bird tells me, tipping a biscuit tin full of lugs next to a stack of bare tubes. I nod hesitantly and... read more
Lifestyle: Keirin in Japan is something different. This is evident not least in the bikes the riders ride. One of the most important frame builders in Japan is Osaka-based Yoshiaki Nagasawa, who once learned his craft at De Rosa in Italy and remains faithful to it today. His handcrafted steel frames can be seen on the tracks of the... read more
