Cycling UK Forum

Thanks for the messages and good wishes. Looking forward to future tours
Cheers
Kenny

Thanks again to everyone who replied to my post back in October. Some of you asked me to let you know what I did.
I decided to go for the custom made - and persuaded my wife that we should have one each to mark our forthcoming big birthdays. From the names that came up in the replies I contacted a number of those that came up several times. Eventually, I went with Simon Stanforth of Stanforth Bikes.
Simon was absolutely fantastic. He spent lots of time ensuring that we got bikes that fitted what we wanted and needed and gave clear answers and advice to all my questions. We collected our bikes last week and spent a few days in the south of England getting to know them - and are delighted with them. See https://www.instagram.com/p/CSufSOyMFoc ... _copy_link
I went with the Skyelander with Rohloff hub and V-brakes - and boblo, I loved the colour of the picture you posted and went with the same green for mine. My wife went with a Skyelander too but with disc brakes and 650B wheels.
The whole process of choosing the bikes, working with Simon and finalising the frame and all the components was a joy with Simon and we've ended up with bikes we're both delighted with. Thanks for all the input from everyone which really helped to focus my mind and get me started on the road to my new tourer.
Cheers.
Kenny

Many thanks all for taking the time to pass on a great deal of wisdom and experience. Lots of points there I would not have thought about and a number of names to look into - with some endorsed by others. Lots to think about - I'll enjoy the further research and purchase whatever I go for, and now have more chance of enjoying the ride too.
Many thanks again to all.
Kenneth

Hello.
I live in Edinburgh. I am planning to get a new touring bike for retirement. I am considering a made to measure one. I'd be interested to hear views on the pros and cons and things to consider. Also, I'd be interested in any good bike builders to go to for this if I do go ahead, ideally in Scotland or north of England, but would consider elsewhere in UK.
Many thanks.
Kenneth Gray