Being based in London RCUK is witness to the full-spectrum of fixed gear bicycles in and around the city, so here's something I reckon should get fixed fans excited: a titanium fixed from Burls.
Burls is the outlet for one man, Justin Burls, who has years of experience and expertise designing and building frames, with a keen interest in satisfied customers. While steel has been the material of choice, the company offers titanium options, with the frames made in Russia.
This one has just arrived in the office and will immediately be put into service for the daily commute. The frame is made from 3AL/2.5V plain gauge titanium, and the geometry is close to that used for pure track frames, with an 11.25” bottom bracket height providing enough clearance with the 170mm crank arms to be used on tracks as steep as Calshot. This medium sized frame has a 73° head and 74° seat angle, so it's slightly more relaxed than a track frame.
The beauty of Burls though is the lack of off-the-shelf frames, meaning that every frame will be built to the customer's requirements. Modify the geometry, add a rear brake, mudguard mounts and so on. This actual frame model has been built at the request of Hubjub, a specialist retailer in all things fixed. Ignore the spec (though it gives you an idea how it could be built up) on this bike as complete bikes aren't available, though Hubjub will sort you out a frame and fork package.
First ride impressions are good, an in-depth review coming soon. Burls offer this frame for £800. To find out more pop over to www.burls.co.uk
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Gavin Hunt
