BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
Can you tell us about Argos’ history?
Argos Racing Cycles started trading in 1974. Initially we built frames for the US racing market and then branched into the UK racing scene. The workshop remained busy in the ‘80s, with time trial racing being particularly popular. We then expanded into frame respray, repair and renovation and moved to new premises in Bristol – still our home today. The popular frame building and respray/repair service did well throughout the 1990s.
More recently we’ve seen more overseas clients use our specialist classic renovation service. We can renovate vintage frames to their former glory and features like chrome plating, lug lining, period decals and colours can be provided to create an authentic look. Frames from the ‘50s and more recently the ‘70s are currently most popular.
How is business?
We have noticed an increase over the last 18 months. More people are looking at the bike as a viable alternative to the car. Incentives like C2W have opened the sport to those who might be priced out. We’ve also noticed an increase in older bikes coming in that haven’t been used for a while. These are often renovated and re-built as a more cost-effective alternative to a new purchase.
Can you tell us about Argos’ services?
Our frame respray and repair service is popular with riders who wish to give new life to much-loved frames. When busy, up to 35 frames will be worked on.
We work closely with many UK importers to offer approved repair and respray services to their existing clients. Respray and decal reproduction services have an average turnaround of two to three weeks; more complicated respray and repairs would take slightly longer.
Many specialist repairs can be undertaken, from replacing tubes in steel frames to replacement bottom bracket thread fitted to nearly all frames. We offer resprays to steel, alloy, carbon and magnesium frames, and we also build frames – all our new build frames are built to order and made to measure. A typical order will take ten to 12 weeks to complete.
All riders are measured using our unique adjustable jig. This device enables us to determine the ideal frame dimensions required. Once a suitable position has been found, we then focus on the rider’s position under pressure. By adding rolling resistance we see how the position may change under high input.
Alongside bespoke frame building we provide a custom build option. It enables clients to select exactly the components they require and we can source any components the customer desires.
Can you tell us about your staff?
Our master frame builder, Garry Needham, has been building bicycle frames for 30 years. He started under his father’s (Arthur Needham, founder) supervision and has built frames for top time trialists to world explorers.
Garry will guide any clients through the process of ordering a ‘Made To Measure’ frame, from the measurement session to building the final product. This enables us to provide consistent quality and high level of customer satisfaction.
Which frames/bikes do you cater for?
Cyclocross, Road Race, Audax, Touring, Cyclosportif, off road (hardtail only), time trial, ladies-specific, track and fixed road, commuting and S and S couplings for the folding option.
ARGOS RACING CYCLES
TEL: 0117 9724730
EMAIL: sales@argoscycles.com
WEB: www.argoscycles.com
