This project involved a full sympathetic restoration and rebuild on the unique and vintage English made Hetchins frame. We utilised a campagnolo groupset and stuck with downtube shifters for authenticity. The wheels were handbuilt in shop using Novatec hubs and Halo Retro 700c rims and all wrapped up in gum walled Halo Twin Rail tyres. We added be brakes, but kept the classic toe clip pedals with leather strap. The classic brown theme continued with Brooks bartape, cane creek levers, saddle and small saddle bag.

The result is a fantastic looking and enjoyable ride with a boat load of history to it. It was great to work on such an interesting project and restore the frame to its former glory.

Now, what’s up with those curly stay?! While the frame was in the shop it got a lot of attention and in addition to the lugs it was that curvy back end that caught everyone’s attention. The idea behind it was originally highlighted in the 1935 catalogue which introduced them as follows: “the vibratory action caused when riding over uneven ground lessens the retarding force on the rear wheel, resulting in less loss of speed”. Basically the forerunner of all the modern compliance and damping systems you see on modern frames.