Written by Steven Turner.

Just in time for Spring, London-based Bobbin Bicycles has rolled out its latest laid back bike, the Bobbin Albion.

Price: £550

What they say: The Bobbin Albion is a retro-tinged classic design that comes complete with Shimano’s Claris gear set and Tektro brake system, ready for the urban commuter.

What it is: Just in time for Spring, London-based Bobbin Bicycles has rolled out its latest laid back bike, the Bobbin Albion. Another classic design with a retro hint, the Albion is fun addition to the entry level class of commuter bikes currently dominating the entry-level market.

Built around a solid thin tube cro-mo steel frame, there’s nothing overly fancy about the Albion set-up, but its not shabby either. Shimano’s user-friendly Total Integration road gears and 16 speed Claris gear set are included in the build and are quality choices, albeit a little too familiar for this style of bike, while  the Tektro side-pull brakes are a good, if somewhat uninspired choice. As is custom with the Bobbin brand a lot of the focus is on the style, with the titanite green colouring giving the bike a  classic continental Euro look and the matching brown saddle and bar tape keep things co-ordinated.

Taking it out on the streets the Albion performs nicely, there’s a good enough gear range for cruising at a leisurely pace or for picking up some serious speed, and the set-up is smooth and  responsive. There’s nothing overly fancy about the Albion but it looks great and is an easy, if somewhat basic ride. Its not going to blow you away with its originality or attention to detail, but it will make you smile on a summer day.

Who it’s good for: Like the Bobbin brand, the Albion would suit a carefree rider focused on the experience and not the technicalities