Tuesday, 16 August 2022

Mike Burrows

'Imagine a bike that could be assembled and disabled with one tool, there's only one type of fastener used on the entire bike....?' I can't remember his exact words, but an aspect of conversation went something along those lines. I had the pleasure of speaking with Mike Burrows in the mid nineties. I was a nervous and naive student, plucked up the courage and gave him a ring. He was incredibly generous with his time and I ended up with so many insights and words of wisdom.  

A visit to his workshop to see and hear his process and approach must have been a privilege, this link to the cyclist magazine is well worth a read 

https://www.cyclist.co.uk/in-depth/10866/mike-burrows-bike-designer-profile

When you look at what he's achieved, it's not just the design of an iconic bike that is better known and attributed to the car manufacturer Lotus than him, it is also the compact frames, incredibly smart components and utility bikes that demonstrate that he was a master of his craft. It's also the details and elegance of his products that are a joy to behold, this pic from an early Windcheetah explains why.


Thanks Mike