12th Nov | Plinths
A Bespoke Stand for a Legendary Ride: Crafting The Slow Cyclist’s London-to-Brisbane Bike Plinth
When The Slow Cyclist approached us for a new display, it wasn’t just for any bicycle. This commission was to create a bespoke plinth and stand for the exact bike ridden by founder Oli Broom on his incredible, 14-month journey, cycling 28,000 kilometres from London to Brisbane to watch The Ashes. This historic expedition is the foundational story of The Slow Cyclist brand, and it deserved a display solution as unique and durable as the adventure itself.
The Client’s Vision: A Durable, Textural Display in OSB
To complement the bike’s rugged history, The Slow Cyclist specifically requested OSB (Oriented Strand Board) for the primary material. This choice was deliberate, driven by their appreciation for OSB’s raw, industrial texture and its strong, honest aesthetic. Our challenge was to transform this often-utilitarian material into a sophisticated and enduring museum-quality piece ready for display.
Protecting History: The 10% Sheen Lacquer Finish
To elevate the OSB while ensuring the piece’s longevity, we meticulously applied a high-quality clear lacquer. This finish was chosen for its optimal 10% sheen, providing a subtle, protective lustre that enhances the natural patterns and character of the OSB without making it look glossy or artificial. The lacquer not only seals the wood against environmental factors but also adds a layer of resistance against wear and tear, ensuring the plinth remains flawless as it showcases this legendary bicycle.
Integrated Branding: Precision Logo Application
A crucial element was perfectly incorporating The Slow Cyclist’s logo onto the front of the plinth. To achieve a professional and lasting finish, we used a multi-step stencilling process:
- A custom stencil vinyl of the logo was applied to the front face.
- The logo area was carefully sprayed with a crisp, opaque black paint.
- Once dry, the entire plinth—including the logo—received its final layers of clear lacquer.
This process ensures the logo is permanently sealed beneath the clear coat, protecting it from scratches, fading, and integrating it seamlessly into the plinth’s durable finish.
Ready for Display
The finished unit includes both the OSB plinth and a custom-cut bike stand, engineered for stability and a perfect fit. This project stands as a proud testament to bespoke craftsmanship, creating a display that doesn’t just hold a bike, but beautifully honours the 28,000-kilometre journey that ultimately inspired The Slow Cyclist’s mission.
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