Mercian is commemorating its 80th anniversary with the launch of its latest Ventura Allroad, the first new model from the storied British brand in nigh to twenty years.
As its name implies, the Ventura Allroad is the one-bike solution for roadies and gravelers alike, able to tackle both tarmac and gravel with aplomb thanks to its custom geometry, wide selection of componentry and enough clearance to accommodate tires up to a hefty 45mm.
Like all of Mercian’s bikes, the Ventura Allroad is crafted from steel, relying on Reynolds’ venerable 853 Pro Team double butted oversized tubing and a lugged bottom bracket, along with a tapered Columbus head tube and carbon forks.
“The Allroad is a sleek road and gravel hybrid. Designed for high performance across gravel trails and fast roads, the Allroads’ lugless construction offers a clean, contemporary aesthetic combined with lightweight agility. Engineered to excel on varied terrain, the frame offers responsive handling and unmatched versatility with every ride. Our new model, crafted in our Derby HQ, is made with Reynolds 853 Pro Team double butted oversized steel tubing, with a tapered Columbus head tube and carbon forks. A lugged bottom bracket is used to enhance strength in this key area. The frame is suitable for tyres of up to 45mm. We supply the bike with 35mm tires as standard in our packages but will alter to any requirement – from 23mm up to 45mm. As an option you can simply purchase two sets of tyres, or even two sets of wheels. Put on your road slicks or your gravel tires, it’s your call. With disc brakes as standard, the bike is available as frame-only or fully assembled: choose one of our three assembly packages – or we can help you build up the assembly to your own specification,” says Mercian.
For road, the Ventura Allroad is offered in three guises, the CORE, PREMIER and ELITE, with pricing starting at $4,075.00 for the CORE that comes equipped with a Shimano 105 Di2 groupset and Mavic Aksium Disc CL wheels, up to the top-tier ELITE that’s fitted with Shimano Dura Ace and Mavic Cosmic SLR wheels for $11,025.00.
For the road less traveled, the Ventura Allroad is available in the same three models, albeit with drivetrains that span Shimano GRX 610, Campagnolo EKAR and Shimano GRX825 Di2 for $4,075.00, $5,875.00 and $6,950.00, respectively.
For the initiate, Mercian Cycles was founded in Derby in 1946 by Tom Crowther and Lou Barker. Initially focusing on high-quality, hand-built steel frames for club riders, the company became known for its traditional methods and bespoke, often artful, designs.
After multiple ownership changes, the company faced liquidation in 2024, but was subsequently acquired by a new group of owners who have worked steadfastly to continue the brand’s legacy.
Mercian
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