HBG: Welcome back, we've all missed you! But why the absence?

SW: It has been a few years since we have gone to any bike shows. We have evolved from our early years of trying everything under the sun and saying yes to every project in the early days. This constant experimentation of techniques and materials led to our over-the-top years of full blinged out show pieces. This was great for publicity but led to the perception that this was all we did. We decided to step back from that, refining our process and concentrate on what we are actually best at: making bikes that will give the best long-term performance and joy for each client. We have become much fussier about what we will and won't do. After years of tinkering we know what works and what doesn't. If something doesn't make sense, we have learned to say no. We now offer 3 starting models which are then further tailored to the needs of each individual: Road, MTB and X.

HBG: What do you like best about your bikes?

SW: The most important feature of all naked bicycles in the individual attention to detail. We actually enjoy the process of working with each customer. It may sound funny, but many custom builders approach the client as an afterthought to their craft. With the low volume of output, consultation should be the custom builder’s primary focus. I really enjoy translating the wishes and needs of each client to create a deliberate and joyful machine.

HBG: What's your material and construction philosophy?

SW: Over the years we have dabbled in most of the available frame material choices and components but have certainly settled on our favourites. For tubes we work predominantly in titanium and steel. We are often making bikes designed to last for many years, and these two materials are at once timeless, versatile and incredibly durable. We strongly favour TIG welded construction for the absolute versatility of design. It is nearly impossible to build a modern geometry bicycle with lugs in my opinion. Too many compromises. It is too easy to hide your mistakes with lugs or fillet. Being naked is not about hiding anything. As for components, we are happy to work with many companies, but we certainly have our favourites which we have evolved and distilled over the years.

HBG: A few words on your current design challenges?
SW: The biggest design challenge is knowing what is needed for a particular build, but not being able to create it with existing components or materials. This leads to constant innovation and refinement of process. This can be both frustrating and satisfying in equal measure.