BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
Starling Cycles is evolving – and, after almost 10 years, the business is moving core manufacturing out of Bristol.
Whilst that sounds dramatic, founder Joe McEwan points out that it’s actually really good news and should allow it to grow whilst staying as “Starling” as possible.
Rather than read about it, here’s the man himself, talking about the big decisions, the small details and the future direction of all things Starling Cycles, in a way only Joe / Starling could.
Starling Cycles X Fort Frames
Manufacturing in Europe means a new partnership, and Joe doesn’t hold back here, stating, “Fort is one of the world’s best steel frame builders. They’ve been making handmade mountain bike frames for thirty years, and already work with some of the most respected UK and European brands. They completely understand what we’re about and are masters of their craft.”
We’ve visited them, seen them work and trust them to build a frame that’s exactly to our spec. They’re using Reynolds 853 as we’ve always done and are building to the exact same quality as we do here in Bristol. For the customer, it’s every bit as fun, simple, reliable and ‘Starling’ as ever.
The partnership is “about setting Starling up for the future and being able to remain strong, independent and very “us” for years to come. All while continuing to make beautifully simple mountain bikes that are zero hassle and a blast on the trails.
“And that’s it, it’s hopefully nothing too drastic, but is something we wanted to communicate clearly and honestly with the world.”
Starling frames are due to land in stock in November 2025 in all sizes, available via StarlingCycles.com. They can be purchased with or without shocks, and complete builds are available on request.
