LAST Friday, in the pouring rain, we ventured down the M4 for the launch of the first ever Bespoked Bristol.

It’s the event for custom handmade bicycle makers to showcase their wares, and is a real treat for bicycle nuts.

Held in a trendy little venue called Paintworks, it featured the like of Condor, Downland cycles, Villiers Velo, Brian Rourke and many other custom frame builders. I thought I had died and gone to heaven.

Being the launch, however, and with Saturday and Sunday being the real show days, not every exhibitor had decided to stay to talk to we trade visitors, preferring instead to knock off early and sample Bristol’s nightlife.

That was a real shame as I have had my eye on a Lee Cooper frame, bank balance allowing.

However, although they had set up, they had clearly finished their free drinks and moved on, as their lovely bikes stood alone.

Nick Lobnitz, who makes the Beautiful Paper Cycle, also didn’t make an appearance on Friday night; we were all dying to meet him as we all love his Y-frame trailers.

In contrast to London’s huge cycle show, this one was minuscule. It had a homely feel and perhaps an air of exclusivity, which could hinder its development.

But despite being such a niche show I can see next year being much bigger.

As cycling as a means of transport, rather than simply for leisure, increases, more and more people are getting savvy about their bikes.

A bike off the shelf of a supermarket is no longer acceptable and those who are really serious about their ride consider a tailor-made frame the only way to go.

But where do you start if you want to buy your dream bike? There are so many frame builders around the country it would be difficult to visit them all to find out if they understand your needs.

Well this show has it wrapped up, and, if you’re interested, next year’s show should be in March. Check out bespokedbristol.com for details.

After a couple of pleasurable hours spent discussing the lovely bikes on show with the exhibitors, my companions decided to pull me away from the bar, but mentioned I had missed the back room, and I am very glad they did.

On entry my eyes were drawn to a tandem, displayed with pride. I had to inquire about it.

Built by a relatively young company called Paulus Quiros, based in South Wales, it was so aesthetically pleasing I would hang it on my wall.

It was built for one of the owner’s daughters; lucky girl.

With curves reminiscent of vintage loop frames, it had so much style it should be in a museum.

They also had a superb polished tourer which stole my heart. And the lugwork on the rest of their bikes was enough to make you cry with joy.

It was a wonderful show and I can’t wait for next year, hopefully by then I will have saved up the pennies to put down a deposit on my own dream bike.