Taiwan-based Shaker Bike Shop has launched a compact range of classically styled bikes with options on the drivetrain and a range of accessories to match.
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The idea behind the brand is to combine a classic bike style with modern traits (such as big tyre clearances) and a semi-custom buying option — so far the bikes only come as single-speeders or with 3-speed sturmey drivetrains, but if you want something else just ask.
If you’re after just one bike you can choose from a range of colours and lots of options on finish, such as bars, drivetrain, grips, saddle, tyres and more.
The firm is also looking to offer its bikes to shops, restaurants or any organisation looking for a fleet. With this option you can choose any colour you like and, thanks to a partnership with a Taiwanese custom paint shop, the board can bear your company name, slogan or graphics.
I got to ride the bike for a few kilometres around Taipei and it's exactly what you’d expect from a butted TIG-welded steel frame: fairly plush, pretty smooth and with a great upright ride position, with simple and dependable parts (though the classy Clement Strada LGG tyres are a real bonus).
What I do really like about the Shaker, though, is the projected price — just $399 for the singlespeed and $499 for the 3spd.
The bikes are in the final stages of testing to meet international standards, but when they do become available the Shaker could be a decent budget option if you’re looking for a good-looking town bike.
The guys behind Shaker are also pretty committed outdoor types. Next in line is a range of picnic or camping bikes, a neat sort of mash-up of a tourer, bikepacker's steed and classic town bike, which will also come with a range of accessories, including racks, guards and even an own-design tent.
As a taster, I did get to see Shaker's unique multi-tool/catapult, so if you're ever likely to want to mix a bit of bike repair with some hunting, the Shaker tool could be what you're looking for.
