Cykelmageren

Words such as 'bespoke' and 'tailored' strike me as I recall our experience in the Copenhagen branch of Cykelmageren, a handmade bicycle company. We had wandered in off a typically pleasant European avenue, peppered with archaic architecture and garnished with noble sculptures.

We felt drawn to enter after noticing the quite splendid looking town bicycles that were displayed in the window. Descending into this underground workshop of magnificence we were greeted by frames, handlebars, cranks, nuts and bolts. A wonderfully decorated haven for any cycle enthusiast. Semi-complete projects lay in wait for their piece de resistance. Along with an exhibition of masterpieces that radiantly sparkled and shone.

"We build everything from scratch." The shop attendant told us, explaining their process as he filed away meticulously at a conjoining metal component that he wasn't fully satisfied with. Customisation seemed to be the key to their unique bikes. He showed us a few other subtle touches that had been included on recent projects, things that at a glance would go unnoticed but once discovered could be revered and fully appreciated, rather like fine art.

 

The craftmanship quality on these machines was unquestionably impeccable and I would wager that a purchase would be something of an investment rather than an indulgence. We left Cykelmageren with as much information as possible and a dream of one day owning such a fine example of tailored craftsmanship, but at around €2000 per bike it may be a while before that dream can be realised. Perhaps a pedal, a handlebar grip something small and attainable would suffice for now, enough to keep the dream alive.

 

 David, TCC