Pashley: The Pioneering Spirit of English Cycles
“Since 1926, Pashley has been the defiant guardian of traditional British cycle building. Don't let the odd wicker basket fool you though; whilst they’re famous for the classic 'loop-frame' bicycle, their Stratford-upon-Avon factory is also a pioneer of modern steel engineering. From hand-welding heavy-duty cargo fleets for the Royal Mail to crafting race-ready gravel bikes with 3D-printed lugs, Pashley proves that steel isn't just a material of the past—it's the material of the future.”
1. The Heritage
Founded by William 'Rath' Pashley in 1926, the company originally built carrier cycles for butchers and ice-cream vendors. They are the longest-established British bicycle maker still in continuous production.
Unlike competitors who moved to Asia, Pashley stayed in Stratford-upon-Avon, keeping the flame of British frame-building alive through the decades of mass-produced aluminium.
2. The Location
Every cycle is still hand-built at their factory in Stratford-upon-Avon. It is a true manufacturing hub, not just an assembly plant. They support over 100 British suppliers, sourcing everything from leather to steel locally where possible.
3. The Difference
The "Modern" Steel: This is where they surprise you. Their new Roadfinder range uses Reynolds 853 heat-treated steel and unique 3D-printed stainless steel lugs. This creates a frame that is as stiff and responsive as carbon, but with the legendary ride quality of steel.
The "Workhorse" DNA: Pashley dominates the commercial world. If you see a cargo bike delivering mail or pizzas in London, it’s likely a Pashley. This heavy-duty engineering DNA trickles down into every consumer bike they make.
Monozukuri: They operate on the Monozukuri Japanese concept of "craftsmanship" where the makers are skilled artisans who take personal pride in the alignment of every mudguard and the pinstriping of every frame.
4. The Hero Products
The Princess: The icon. With its wicker basket, fully enclosed chaincase and loop frame, it’s the design that’s defined English cycling since the roaring ‘20s.
The Pashley-Morgan: A stunning collaboration with the Morgan Motor Company. These bikes feature wood-veneer mudguards and racing green livery, blending automotive heritage with modern cycle tech.
The Pathfinder: The rule-breaker. A modern touring and gravel bike featuring disc brakes, a carbon fork and a geometry designed for long-distance adventure, proving Pashley looks to the future as much as the past.
5. The Essentials
Certifications:
Made in Britain member.
Winner of the Insider 'Manufacturer of the Year' Award..
