Vanguard designs custom bicycles

Vanguard designs are a maker of custom bicycles, based in Singapore, that can also ship internationally. Vanguard is a unit of Singapore-based multidisciplinary company Angelus Novus Studio. Vanguard specialises in the design of unique one-off bicycles, as well as in the customisation and restoration of classic rides and collectors’ pieces. Vanguard bicycles are recognised worldwide for their unique designs and ergonomics. All excertpts here were taken from their website.

[L to R] The Saluki Velocommute Bike is a lightweight with a design inspired by subtle changes in light on frost and ice: you'll see this in the half chrome, half frost bite steel finished frame paired with hand-made solid Slovenian Beech wood rims. This fully restored and re-fabricated model with Saluki's Tange road frame sports a shorter wheel base and clearance from its original 10-speed set up. Gentle to novice riders. Delicately crafted with a raw, industrial edge to it, the Sorraia Messenger Bike is a one-geared speeding machine. Fitted out with laser cut dropouts and an Olmo fork.

[L to R] As one out of four bikes in the limited edition Underscore x Vanguard collection, the inspiration for Cloud Messenger Bike comes from overlapping layers of cloud and sky. Custom-fabricated and crafted using a 1970s Ishiwata touring frame, this bike is designed as a sleek single speed ride that comes fitted with a coaster hub brake. Smooth, silent, like you're riding on air. Saxon is Vanguard’s re-interpretation of a Raleigh Lenton 1950s vintage ride. Fully-restored, meticulously overhauled and custom built, this super single-speed cruising machine has been re-designed with 700c Schwalbe Delta Cruiser tyres, custom cnc’d boardtracker chain ring, wood grain cork grips and a Brooks Flyer Saddle. Hand on tight as this baby rides hard and fast, laidback style!

[L to R] Classic and elegant, Francesca is one endearing ride that’s all about riding free – wherever the road takes you. Restored, re-fabricated and built from a 1970s Tange 10-speed frame, this beauty now rides on 700c tyres, upright moustache handlebars, Brooks leatherwear and foot brake. A gentlemen’s companion to Maia velocommute bike, Dani is also restored and fabricated from a 1970s Tange frame that comes with a custom-made, converted vintage LED headlamp and an upright moustache handlebar.

[L to R] Bitzer; the purveyor of rugged luxury is designed and rebuilt from a classic collector’s 1950s Raleigh Roadster. With imageries of wild rides over sand dunes and sunsets, Bitzer is made for high speeds with a firm control. Fitted with the best vintage British, European and Japanese components, including a NOS Czech made coaster hub brake, a Brooks Swallow saddle together with a D-Shaped saddle bag, this regal roadster is ready to roar! Laurent is a sleek velocipede that has been fully re-conditioned from a Panasonic road bike from the 1970s. With a full overhaul while maintaining its original chrome work, Laurent now runs on an upgraded Shimano 600 gearing system, Delta Cruiser tyres, our very own Porteur inspired handlebar as well as a front carrier rack!

Vanguard’s approach is based on design authenticity and a hands-on approach to building unique, personalised bicycles. Taking inspiration from art, architecture, music, and the proportions of classic bicycles and motorcycles, each bike is treated as unique kinetic sculpture/architecture with a distinct character and personality. Each one is serialised and named, and captures an essence or soul of the city. Often the designs stem from a feeling, an emotion, or an encounter in the city. Every bike goes through a rigorous design, fabrication, and assembly process to ensure the best quality and finest work possible.