Londonist is media partner to the London Cycling Awards
What's the best bike shop in London? It's a hot debate, and one the London Cycling Awards hopes to settle this year.
To help you decide which you want to vote for, we're profiling the four nominees, this time, Condor Cycles.
Clapton and Jagger are fans
"The Granddaddy of biking shops", "A veritable church of British road and track cycling": Condor isn't just a bike shop — it's a bit of an institution.
A family run business since 1948, Condor creates bespoke bikes for the rich and famous and at the same time has a gentlemen's attitude to customer service. Apparently Eric Clapton is on his eighth bike from Condor, and Mick Jagger's a fan too! Wiggins and Simpson are both familiar with racing on Condor bikes.
Back in the 1960s the brand's Tour de France team was one of the all-time best; in 1968 Hugh Porter rode to victory on a Condor in Rome, winning the first of four world professional pursuit titles. In terms of putting British cycling on the map, Condor has done more than its fair share.
Keeping it in the family
The shop has been in its central location on the Gray’s Inn Road for most of its life, founded in 1948 by Monty Young. Prime minister Harold Wilson's wife once called up and ordered a bike for their son. Monty remember as it being a surreal and nerve-wracking experience, "I was shaking — I thought it was someone messing about!"
Monty's son, Grant is now in charge of the legendary brand and a third generation is getting stuck in too with Grant's son, Sebastian closely involved.
What does Joe public think of the cycling scene’s coolest Farther & Son store? Cheng says, "I have nothing but praise for Condor Cycles, especially Seb. The frames are excellent and worth the wait! The service by Seb is even more impressive than the frame. He has not let me down once! No lip service, no brushing things aside, just full on service!"
Vote for your favourite bike shop and you could win a Bobbin bike — make your choices on the London Cycling Awards website.
