Vulcan Bicycle Works
Builder Profile
A handmade Vulcan Bicycle Works bike is a different
thing to something produced in a factory or even a small workshop packed with
electronic machinery. The project is named after the Roman god of the forge,
echoing the heritage of Birmingham, England, and the thousand trades it is known
for. Every bike is a self-contained project, beginning with an in-person fit and
consultation carried out by Ben, the same person who chooses the tubes, hand
files every joint and brazes the steel frame using methods largely unchanged
within living memory. He is usually the one to build the wheels, grease every
bolt and crimp every derailleur cable too.
The best bikes of the last hundred years were made this
way, and they still are. It requires precise skilled handwork, which can exceed
the work done by machines. The resulting process is something that takes an
individual rider’s unique needs, looks at them through the lens of generational
experience and skill, and creates something that couldn’t have been made by
anyone else, for anyone else.
A VBW bike is craft, not art: designs and
finishes are utilitarian and hardwearing. Their beauty will only be increased
over time by the marks of use. Their value compares well even to mass produced
bikes, a fair exchange for decades of appreciation and enjoyment. For many UK
employees, Vulcan Bicycle Works can even offer the option of Cycle to Work
Scheme payment, spreading payment over multiple years with a significant
discount.
Each bike is generally planned as a complete
item, with the very latest components on offer. During the design consultation,
Ben will provide expert guidance for selecting components that are functional,
durable, and versatile. VBW are pleased to offer frameset only options to allow
the use of second hand parts, or extensive modifications (including S&S coupler
retrofits) to existing frames.
For a travel bike, S&S couplers offer
incomparable functionality, which is why they are a frequently-seen option on
VBW touring and adventure bikes. The weight increase is very minimal and the
structural qualities are improved. The additional expense is worth it for the
frequent traveller, who will be paid back in reduced anxiety after a single trip
and in reduced baggage fees after a few.
Vulcan Bicycle Works provide a limited
lifetime warranty to the original owner against structural defects in material
or workmanship on all frames and forks. As a project of Birmingham Bike Foundry,
a longstanding worker co-operative bike shop, the original manufacturer’s
warranty is also applicable on all parts fitted. Bikes are covered by
comprehensive insurance with regard to public and product liability.
More details can be found at
vulcanbicycle.works, and process photos are available on Instagram by following
@vulcanbicycleworks.
Products and services available utilizing BTCs.
We sell frames and complete bicycles.
Standard frames
Custom frames
- Road Racing
- Touring
- Hybrid
- Off Road
Weeks wait 12 to 16
Retrofitting servicesRetrofitting services
- On all frames manufactured by any manufacturer
Construction methodsConstruction methods
Frame materials
Purchase from
- We sell direct to consumers only.
Contact Information:
Vulcan Bicycle Works
Birmingham Bike Foundry
1539 Pershore Road
Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
Phone:
+44 121 459 7276
e-mail:
ben@vulcanbicycle.works
www: vulcanbicycle.works
Vulcan Bicycle Works Home Page
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