The Scottish round of this year’s Grinduro event was held a few weeks ago on the Isle of Arran, and it was a complete success, especially for The Bicycle Academy, who presented the work of three frame builders as part of an annual competition.
The Grinduro frame builder’s competition was initiated three years ago by The Bicycle Academy to showcase between three and five builders’ skills and creativity each year — and for a chance to have some fun at the same time.
Previous lineups have included Ricky from Feather Cycles, Adeline of Mercredi Bikes, Tom at Donhou Cycles and the Field Cycles crew.
Pi Manson of Clandestine was selected for 2019, along with Andy Carr at Spoon Customs, and Ted James.
TBA’s Tom Sturdy also submitted a couple of frames on behalf of the Academy. The institution tutors so many students, it was a rare opportunity to actually enjoy the fruit of their own labor.
Their GXC takes 90s-era cross-country racing as its inspiration, from the Columbus tubing to the long-fade paint, which was turned around by Jason Rourke at Blue Whippet in under 24 hours.
Cannondale’s Lefty Ocho fork is also a design reminiscent of the era, as are the HOPE components and Ritchey finishing kit — albeit in a brand name. The GXC rode the challenging course expertly, due in no small part to Tom’s ability.
As a cyclist, brazing your own frame is one of the most satisfying things you could do. Until its recent demise The Bicycle Academy, located in Frome, was the UK’s premier frame building academy, not only offering a range of courses but affordable jigs and tooling for the aspiring builder.
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Massive thanks to Adam Gasson for the photography.