Steel
Performance, comfort, and durability
For eight decades, Mercian Cycles has partnered with Reynolds to create performance steel frames using 100% recycled steel. In a world chasing weight and speed, we take our time—crafting each frame with care, passion, and a commitment to a material that’s as modern as it is timeless.
Steel frames offer a naturally compliant ride that smooths out the bumps and vibrations of the road. Unlike frames made from less forgiving materials, steel flexes just enough to absorb road imperfections. Many cyclists report a noticeably more comfortable ride over long distances – less fatigue and more joy in every pedal stroke, keeping you in the saddle for longer.
One of the great advantages of steel is its durability. A well-crafted steel frame can be repaired and restored over decades. This resilience means that your hand-made Mercian bike is not just built for today, it’s crafted for a lifetime. Many beautiful Mercian vintage bikes still grace our roads today after many decades of riding - true quality never goes out of style.
In a world where sustainability matters, steel shines. Steel frames are highly recyclable, reducing waste and environmental impact. Steel does not lose its properties through re-use – that 1970’s VW Beetle your father owned might possibly be in your new Mercian gravel bike.
Made-to-Measure, Built to Last
Mercian Cycles is proud to build bikes that embody the classic virtues of steel - resilience, comfort, and an enduring ride quality. Whether you are exploring new trails or enjoying a leisurely city ride, our steel bikes provide a connection to cycling heritage while delivering modern performance. In a market dominated by off-the-peg mass-produced bikes, a hand-made Mercian is the Savile Row option. Made-to-measure. Customise the finish and componentry to your requirements.
What about the weight?
Modern high-end steel bikes are now much lighter than early steel bikes. Mercian steel frame and forks typically weigh in at approx. 2.7kg, and with carbon forks approx. 2.4kg – circa 1-1.5kg heavier than a carbon frame and forks.
Add in the weight of the parts for a fully assembled bike, and the total weight for a Mercian steel bike lands in the 9-10kg range. The new Mercian Ventura Allroad gravel/road bike weighs in at 9.1kg with a standard assembly package - versus 7.5-8kg for an average carbon bike i.e. 10-15% heavier.
Now factor in the weight of an 85kg rider, and the steel bike makes the total weight a rider is shifting to 94-95kg, approximately 1-2% heavier than the total weight with a carbon bike. A small price to pay, in our humble opinion, when the benefits of steel are so bountiful.
