Bespoked London tech gallery: Bikes with blowtorches and fire extinguishers, gold leaf and 32-inch gravel bikes

The Bespoked show returned to London showcasing a diverse array of innovative and niche bicycle technology, custom builds, and unique design concepts. Highlights included custom frames from independent builders, alongside cutting-edge components such as the Zero Lag KOM hub produced in the Peak District and Japanese thru-axles adaptable to any thread standard. Gravel bikes featured prominently, with notable examples like Singular’s 32-inch gravel bike designed for taller riders, and a variety of steel and titanium road bikes from brands including Quirk and Italian specialist Rauler. The event also embraced more eccentric themes, such as an apocalypse bike rally featuring Mad Max-style machines designed for rugged, post-apocalyptic terrain. Among the standout exhibits was Condor’s custom-painted Italia RC, adorned with intricate gold leaf detailing that extended even to the inner fork legs, reflecting the brand’s London heritage with subtle references to its Clerkenwells roots. Condor also presented a range of steel Acciaio models, including versions equipped with Campagnolo groupsets and integrated cabling, demonstrating a blend of classic craftsmanship and modern functionality. Meanwhile, Quirk Cycles announced a significant investment boost of half a million pounds, supported by notable figures such as Rapha founder Simon Mottram, underscoring the growing interest in bespoke steel and titanium frames crafted in London. Technical innovation was a key theme throughout the show, with several brands unveiling noteworthy components. The Zero Lag KOM hub featured a unique freehub mechanism positioned on the left side and utilised a four-bolt brake rotor design, offering advantages over traditional Centerlock or six-bolt systems. Rohloff’s cut-away hub gear provided a rare insight into the complex internal mechanics, accompanied by warnings against disassembly due to warranty voidance and sensitivity to certain adhesives. Japanese brand Rapilock introduced a versatile thru-axle system with a folding lever and compatibility across multiple thread standards, alongside a mudguard design that attaches via single-sided stays to the axle ends, illustrating practical innovation for everyday cycling needs. The show also celebrated craftsmanship and bespoke builds, with Pashley’s steel Pathfinder featuring 3D-printed frame elements and a BMX-style rotatable fork, while Reilly showcased a titanium gravel frame with a cast head tube cluster for enhanced rigidity. Classic pedal manufacturer MKS highlighted its long heritage with a range of quill pedals suitable for road and commuting bikes. On the more avant-garde side, the Apocalypse Rally presented punk-inspired “apocalypse bikes” equipped with blowtorches and fire extinguishers, blending creativity with a sense of humour and survivalist flair. These eclectic exhibits underscored the event’s commitment to pushing boundaries and celebrating cycling’s diverse subcultures. Overall, Bespoked London 2026 demonstrated a vibrant fusion of tradition, innovation, and eccentricity within the cycling world. The event not only highlighted emerging trends such as larger gravel wheels and adaptable components but also reinforced the enduring appeal of handmade craftsmanship and customisation. With fresh investment flowing into boutique builders and new technologies gaining traction