The UK Handmade Bicycle Show, Bespoked Bristol, is happening this weekend — 17th-19th April — and it’s shaping up to be the biggest and best yet. It’s a showcase of the best builders and manufacturers in the United Kingdom, and Darron Coppin, hailing from Dorset, is one of them.
Like many UK frame builders, Darron has been working against the clock for the past few months completing the bikes that will be exhibited at Brunel’s Old Station, which includes this magnificent tourer — the epitome of classic two-wheeled adventuring.
Naturally, a Brooks B17 saddle sits atop the pastel green machine, the ideal choice of seating for bicycle globetrotters. Darren sourced numerous NOS parts for this and his other entries to the show, including the 1930s pump by Bluemels of Wolston, Coventry.
The tourer has been designed specifically around the use of a handlebar bag and a large saddle bag — to the extent of configuring the rear brake to the inside of the seat stays, allowing sufficient room for the luggage without impeding the action of the caliper.
It’s rolling on the extra light Compass tyres and tubes, whose tan sidewalls are a complement to the bike, accentuated by vintage brake levers and hoods, a custom stem and double bar wrap. Cranks by Sun XCD were a considered choice, as were the beaten Honjo fenders.
Darron is especially proud of this build, saying it’s one of the nicest bikes he’s ridden. He may be biased, but it’s hard to imagine that such a beautiful bicycle would not be a pleasure to take for a multi-day jaunt through the English countryside.
Say hello to Darron at Bespoked Bristol this weekend, where you can see the tourer in person, along with his other creations.
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