Simcoe Bicycles

From the top down: Simcoe Step-Through Classic; Simcoe Roadster Signature; Simcoe Roadster Classic; Simcoe Step-Through Signature. All photos courtesy http://simcoebicycles.com

The Toronto-based Simcoe Bicycles makes European-style upright steel bikes that include fenders, chaincases, rear racks, and internal gear hubs. A 7-speed Classic goes for about $900; a 7-speed Signature for around $1100.

Simcoe calls itself "the renaissance of the everyday bike in North America."  Momentum Magazine included Simcoe in its gear guide as one of "21 City Bikes for 2015."  Lovely Bicycle tested the Signature Roadster in 2014 and observed that it had "that intangible 'vintage bike feel' in a modern machine."

There's so much to like about Simcoe.  The 7-speeds, whether Signature or Classic, come with a rack.  The Classic is also available as a singlespeed (MSRP $580)  or a 3-speed (MSRP $700), and in a 20 inch or 22 inch frame.  The major difference between Classic and Signature is the brakes. The Classic has caliper rim brakes; the Signature has Shimano roller brakes (which should please David Hembrow). The Signature also comes with a Brooks B68 saddle.

Here are the specs for the Roadster Classic:

Frame	Mixed chromoly frame absorbs road vibration and reduces weight. Includes clever braze-ons for Dutch-style rear wheel lock to deter theft.
Paint	A four-step paint process, including a phosphate base layer and ultra-durable polyurethane clearcoat, create a highly chip-resistant finish with a rust-resistant undercoat.
Fork	High-tensile steel legs with a chromoly steerer tube that naturally absorbs road vibrations.
Headset	FSA sealed bearing keeps steering smooth and protected from rain and snow.
Brakes	Tektro dual pivot brakes give brand-name stopping power.
Brake Lever	Tektro brake levers blend clean lines with excellent power.
Front Hub	Bolt-On alloy front hub discourages theft.
Rear Hub	One speed hub features a coaster brake while three and seven speeds feature low maintenance, weather resistant Shimano internally geared hubs.
Spokes	13 gauge (14 gauge for 7 speed) rear, 14 gauge front spokes provide lateral wheel stifness and superior stability.
Rims	Extremely strong touring-grade rims with double wall construction, 36 spokes and stainless steel eyelets.
Tires	Kenda EuroTrek tires have a puncture resistant lining and a reflective side wall for added safety.
Shifters	Ergonomic Nexus rotary shifter on three speed and high-tech Rapidfire shifter on seven speeds.
Crankset	Samox alloy cranks with fluted details.
Pedals	Alloy with boron axle. Rubber top keeps shoes in good shape
Bottom Bracket	FSA sealed bearings keeps things running smooth and protected from the elements.
Chain	Tough KMC chain for durability.
Stem	Kalloy 25 degree rise stem on the Step Through model puts you in an upright position for comfort and control. Zero rise on the Roadster model for a more powerful and agile position.
Handlebar	Alloy with a 35 mm rise and Classic Japanese style 50 degree backsweep bend for perfect ergonomics.
Grips	Velo grips offer great shock absorption.
Seatpost	Kalloy 375 mm seatpost with elegant swan neck.
Seat	Durable vinyl saddle with extra springs for added comfort.
Chainguard	Alloy chainguard resists rust and provides total clothing protection.
Rack	Features on seven speed models the 16 mm rack is extra strong (up to 55 pounds) and features a plate for permanent, theft-resistant light installation.
Fenders	Fenders are made of a lightweight alloy and painted to match making them extremely rust and chip resistant. Added features include a fluted silver tip, single alloy stays, and leather washers.
Kickstand	The Classic single arm design is both durable and handsome.