As the oldest manufacturer in the bicycle industry, Brooks has not only survived the test of time, but has done so still manufacturing their products in-house just outside of London not far from where they started. First making harnesses for horses and general leather goods in 1866 out of Birmingham, John Boultbee Brooks had to borrow a bicycle in 1878 due to the death of a horse… his transportation at the time. Since the modern “chain driven” bicycle we know today wasn’t invented until around 1890, we can only assume the bike was either the uncomfortable Boneshaker or a high wheel Penny-Farthing. Because the saddle was so uncomfortable, Brooks vowed to do something about it and patented his first bicycle saddle just a few years later in 1882.
Now 150 years on Brooks is still at it, producing saddles in many of the same traditional ways they did from the beginning. And to celebrate they’ve created the “Dashing Bikes” program by partnering with some meaningful manufacturers to produce a limited number of special edition anniversary bikes. Since copper is one of the key and more beautiful elements in a Brooks saddle, all of the special edition bikes will include copper accents. Take a closer look, and check out the well made videos (parts 1 & 2) that take you behind the scenes in the Brooks factory…
Another iconic company based in nearby London, it’s no surprise to see Brompton Cycles as one of the first collaborations to work with Brooks producing this dashing folder.
The moss grey Brompton S Type, will include the Brooks B15 Swallow saddle in a unique green & copper, Brooks’ Slender Grips in green, as well as their Challenge Tool Bag with a MT10 multi-tool. Topping it off will be a Crane E-NE Brass Bell.
Next up for something a dash sportier is Canyon’s entry to honor the saddle company’s heritage. The Canyon “Commuter Brooks 150” is a modern city bike featuring Shimano’s 11 speed Alfine drivetrain with a timeless twist.
The Canyon is outfitted with Brook’s new Cambium C15 saddle with copper rivets, Ergon “Brooks edition” leather GP1 150 grips, and a single Land’s End rear pannier. The Canyon is a great example of how versatile Brooks’ products are, as they are fit so well on everything from a modern tool to a timeless classic.
This grocery getter from Skeppshult of Sweden with its simple monochromatic color scheme makes for a great canvas for Brooks’ brown Cambium pieces with copper accents.
Though a younger company, Tout Terrain’s stout belt driven Silkroad expedition bike is a good platform to test Brook’s ability to withstand the challenging conditions equipment on tour often faces.
Another Brooks Cambium saddle and grips, combined with a Gates belt and internal gears show keeping it simple is often better when dependability is at the top of the list.
There are other “Dashing Bikes” in the works from iconic frame builder Dario Pegoretti, German fashion townie-specialist Schindelhauer, a gravel grinder from Salsa, and more on the drawing board. Each model will be featured in a rotating monthly display at the Brooks flagship B1866 store in Covent Garden throughout the remainder of 2016. If you are interested in one of these classics, contact your local Brooks dealer or one of the bike builders above.
