Mr Wooden is an all new all-purpose frameset from Brother Cycles – it’s a modern randonneur, a gravel bike, a tourer which isn’t afraid to venture off-road. Mr Wooden is however you decide to build it. The frameset is designed to run a 650b quick-release wheelset (tyre clearance up to 650b x 50) with rim brakes and features a low-mid trail fork up front. Why rim brakes you might ask? Well, some will argue they’re easier to maintain and more reliable than disc; however, what we know for certain is it allows us to create a lighter frame which is super comfortable, flexible and fast – designed for those long days in the saddle when you’re not sure where you’ll end up.

As well as the positive effect on ride quality, the decision to go rim brake as well as other design choices like a threaded bottom bracket, 1 1/8″ headset and quick release dropouts also allows for the recycling of classic components which still have plenty of miles in them. A middle finger to the throwaway culture we live in today. And, as you can see from the build featured above, a combination of old and new comes together beautifully – a classically styled bike mixed with some of the benefits of modern technology.

Why is it call Mr Wooden? When we were growing up in America one of our favourite teachers was called Mr Wooden. He was an old-school outdoorsman and took us on nature hikes whenever the opportunity arose. He wore socks and sandals, knew all the names of trees and always had a compass hanging around his neck. Our own love for the great outdoors is partly down to him and we think this frame would be right up his street.

The frame is constructed from double butted 4130 chromoly steel, a functional tubing which provides the perfect balance of performance and durability and we’ve applied an ED coating under the paint to protect against corrosion. It’s fully equipped to fit front and rear racks, mudguards and has three bottle mount positions on all sizes. Down tube bosses give you the option of fitting cable stops or going fully old school with some down tube shifters. The low-mid trail fork is designed to handle weight up front should you wish to run a randonneur style front bag setup, and can take a porteur style rack or low rider should you wish.

Jersey (GBP£)