This isn't any bicycle...this is a Southsiders custom built bicycle. The Southsiders, a group of motorcycle enthusiasts, are better known within the motorcycle community for burning rubber. Not guys you would generally associate with the subtle and soft nature of a bicycle. However, before the motorcycles their two wheel journey started on a bicycle and its that nostalgic love which created this beautiful mechanical marvel.
The combination of the visually alluring photos and Vincent's eloquent explanation of The Commuter bicycle, you can't help but find a special place in your heart for this mechanical creation. Read on.....
The Commuter by The Southsiders
Explanation behind concept & design by Vincent of The Southsiders
"For most of us, our first experience of two wheels is cycling. For me, this is where it all started.
There is an important road cycling culture in France and every summer during the 1970s we'd watch the Tour de France on TV with passion. I was fascinated by the aesthetics and technology of these machines and the bravery and skill of the riders. Then one day I discovered motorbikes, and from then on I thought bicycles would hold no more interest for me, feeling very proud sat astride a throbbing machine.
After becoming a city dweller I considered using a bicycle again as a quick and economical mode of transport. In recent years and under various influences, our sons for example, we have seen the rise of the BMX and fixie phenomenon.
We really liked this mix of urban culture.
With my friend Benoit, we finished the "CP project" in late 2009, when the challenge to build our own bicycle began. For this, our friend Med, thanks to his experience, was the ideal partner. Owner of the Focale 44 brand in Andorra, he supplied a frame modified according to our needs. A beautiful road frame, lightweight and singlespeed ready.
For simplicity and aesthetic reasons we wanted a pure and radical design, free of any superfluous parts.
There is an important road cycling culture in France and every summer during the 1970s we'd watch the Tour de France on TV with passion. I was fascinated by the aesthetics and technology of these machines and the bravery and skill of the riders. Then one day I discovered motorbikes, and from then on I thought bicycles would hold no more interest for me, feeling very proud sat astride a throbbing machine.
After becoming a city dweller I considered using a bicycle again as a quick and economical mode of transport. In recent years and under various influences, our sons for example, we have seen the rise of the BMX and fixie phenomenon.
We really liked this mix of urban culture.
With my friend Benoit, we finished the "CP project" in late 2009, when the challenge to build our own bicycle began. For this, our friend Med, thanks to his experience, was the ideal partner. Owner of the Focale 44 brand in Andorra, he supplied a frame modified according to our needs. A beautiful road frame, lightweight and singlespeed ready.
For simplicity and aesthetic reasons we wanted a pure and radical design, free of any superfluous parts.
We opted for a brakeless front hub and a rear coaster brake hub, keeping the handlebar clear of any components in order to keep the lines clean. We also developed an integrated lighting concept, with lights designed into the seatstays and handlebar.As we did not like the style of modern stems, we developed our own. Similarly, we also developed our own cranks, chain guides and wheel nuts.
All these parts have been manufactured and painted by our wizard friend Momo, whose skills need no introduction. As a final touch the seat has been finished in leather by our saddler, Claude Carrière.
We have created this bicycle as if it were a Christmas present to ourselves. However, a limited edition is in production and is available to buy. Prices vary depending on selected options."
We have created this bicycle as if it were a Christmas present to ourselves. However, a limited edition is in production and is available to buy. Prices vary depending on selected options."
Contact Southsiders for more information:Southsiders.mc@gmail.com
