Stanforth bikes look very nice and refined. I think the kibo is heading toward the heavier end of their touring range. They remind me of what Thorn were a few years ago but with modern components of course. Spa will probably be better value and will build you pretty much what you need. You just need to be clear on the use you are designing for.
Spa cycles
- Thread starter oxoman
- Start date
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Stanforth bikes look very nice and refined. I think the kibo is heading toward the heavier end of their touring range. They remind me of what Thorn were a few years ago but with modern components of course. Spa will probably be better value and will build you pretty much what you need. You just need to be clear on the use you are designing for.
Big John
Legendary Member
I bought a used Raleigh Randonneur which came with bar end shifters. I'd never used them before. After a few months I replaced them with STI's. They worked perfectly but I never took to them. I think they were Dura Ace ones but even so they had to go.
Ian H
Ancient randonneur
The disappointment would be if it was a flashy boutique store.
Brooks
Über Member
- Location
- S.E. London
I had a dynamo hub wheel built by them about 5 years ago now, excellent quality and has never gone out of true.
Ive also bought various parts from them and have always been happy with their service.
Ive also bought various parts from them and have always been happy with their service.
Dogtrousers
Lefty tighty. Get it righty.
I'm a bit late to the party but I'm another Spa fan. My main bike is a Spa Steel Audax. I've bought all manner of bits from them. They've always been patient with my stupid questions, and happily exchanged a rack when I ordered the wrong one.
Moodyman
Legendary Member
I’m in the (un) fortunate position of needing a new commuter. My Kona gravel bike got nicked a couple of days ago. 😫
Is an Elan Titanium a bit of a luxury for commuting duties? I have secured parking at work - D lock, with a locked shelter. 15 miles one way so the distance warrants a comfy horse.
I was leaning toward the steel Elan, but thought I’d treat meself. Plus, titanium will not rust (and crack) like a previous steel commuter did.
I’m local so will visit and try both…but sometimes a second opinion can sway.
Is an Elan Titanium a bit of a luxury for commuting duties? I have secured parking at work - D lock, with a locked shelter. 15 miles one way so the distance warrants a comfy horse.
I was leaning toward the steel Elan, but thought I’d treat meself. Plus, titanium will not rust (and crack) like a previous steel commuter did.
I’m local so will visit and try both…but sometimes a second opinion can sway.
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Absolutely not. I commute on Ti and see a fair few others too.
Titanium is notorious for cracking.
I discovered this after Mrs Tuesday's Ti cracked.
Not at all saying you shouldn't get one, just don't regard it as better than steel in that regard.
See for example
https://www.cyclechat.net/threads/2nd-titanium-frame-failure.277964/
ColinJ
Puzzle game procrastinator!
- Location
- Todmorden - Yorks/Lancs border
I am sorry to hear that. I had my bike stolen when I was a teenager; an upsetting experience!
Hopefully, the Kona was not stolen from there!
Enjoy the new bike.
Moodyman
Legendary Member
Not this time. But the reason for secured cycle parking, is because two bicycles were stolen from there some years ago. One of those was mine.
You’re right. Bike theft is traumatic. Bikes are not just metal tubes. They’re part of our experiences.
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vickster
Squire
Aren’t there stands on the high street at the top of the industrial estate otherwise?
Could be but once you have cycled there..
Not that Chevin in Harrogate are much better only having those nasty wheel brackets. Halfords do have a Sheffield stand although that could do with a coat of paint.
I wheeled mine in and lent it against the counter! It was another Spa but they didn’t seem phased. The main challenge is if they have a different view of what you need in terms of components, things can unravel at that point.
