ATHERTON BIKES – Machynlleth, Wales
The Heritage: Founded by World Champion siblings Gee, Dan and Rachel Atherton, this brand was born from a desire to eliminate the material defects and design compromises of outsourced carbon manufacturing. Based in a specialist facility in Mid Wales, they have pioneered a unique construction method that utilizes 3D-printed titanium lugs bonded to carbon-fibre tubes.
The Verdict: Atherton represents one of the most technologically advanced bicycle manufacturing facilities currently occurring on UK soil. Unlike the industry standard of using large carbon moulds in Asia, Atherton’s "additive manufacturing" (3D printing) process allows them to produce titanium frame joints with near-infinite customisation in sizing, ensuring a accurate rider fit that significantly reduces the risk of physical strain or injury. Their sustainability credentials are world-leading: they operate a "zero-stock" model, only manufacturing a bike once it is ordered, which entirely eliminates the environmental waste of unsold inventory. The frames are engineered for "infinite-life" backed by a lifetime warranty and utilise high-grade titanium (Ti6Al4V) and carbon tubes that are physically bonded rather than welded, preventing the heat-stress weaknesses that often lead to frame failure in mass-market bikes.
Core Products: 3D-printed carbon and titanium mountain bikes and the new S-Range aluminium frames.
