The Light Blue St Johns Retro Road Bike Review: A Modern Classic for British Roads

The Light Blue St Johns Retro Road Bike Review: A Modern Classic for British Roads

When it comes to bikes that blend timeless style with modern practicality, the Light Blue St Johns Retro Road Bike is in a league of its own. Whether you're cruising through quiet country lanes on a Sunday morning or weaving through town traffic during the weekday commute, this bike brings charm, performance, and comfort together in one steel-framed masterpiece.

You can feel it the moment you see it. The Metallic Green and Chrome finish, with its gold lug lining and high-gloss sheen, immediately calls to mind the golden era of British cycling. But don’t be fooled by its looks, this bike is as capable as it is classy.

A Ride That Feels Like a Nod to the Past, With a Modern Edge

The Light Blue St Johns Retro Road Bike is built around a Reynolds 725 double-butted steel frame, lovingly brazed and lugged in a way that pays tribute to classic clubman bikes. The ride quality is exactly what you’d hope for from a steel frame bike: smooth, forgiving, and ideal for long hours in the saddle.

Add in the triple butted Cr-Mo steel fork and you’ve got a front end that feels planted and responsive, even when descending or tackling rougher surfaces. This bike might look like a vintage throwback, but its handling is anything but dated.

With tyre clearance for 700x25c (with mudguards) or up to 32C without, and fittings for both mudguards and a rear rack, it is versatile enough for light touring, Audax riding, or simply getting around town in comfort.

Components That Complement the Retro Vibe

Let’s talk components. The Dia-Compe downtube friction shifters paired with a polished Sunrace rear mech and Shimano Sora front derailleur offer a satisfyingly tactile 2x9 setup. It’s a deliberate throwback to simpler times, but still delivers smooth, accurate shifts once you’ve mastered the technique.

The brakes? Nothing short of iconic. Dia-Compe GC610 centre-pulls provide excellent stopping power and add to the classic aesthetic, especially when paired with gum-rubber hooded levers that feel superb in the hand.

The alloy Genetic Clubman crankset, with its compact 50/34T gearing, is both beautiful and practical. It nods to classic Italian design while offering ratios that are perfect for mixed terrain rides or gentle hill climbing.

Classic Details in Every Touchpoint

The Brookes B17 leather saddle is a standout. It not only looks the part, but once broken in, offers unmatched comfort on longer rides. Combine that with the Genetic Heritage seatpost, Hyoid quill stem, and Heritage bars, all finished in polished alloy, and you’ve got a finishing kit that oozes retro appeal.

Wheels are Halo’s eye-catching Retro models, with polished hubs, stainless spokes, and double-wall eyeletted rims. They complete the vintage look while offering solid modern performance. Fitted with Halo Courier 700x29C skinwall tyres, the ride is fast yet cushioned, and perfect for British tarmac.

Who Is This Bike For?

This is the ideal bike for riders who want to enjoy the charm of a classic road bike without compromising on functionality. It’s made for Sunday riders, commuters, and lovers of steel frame bikes who appreciate craftsmanship and detail. Whether you're an Audax rider or just someone who appreciates quality, the St Johns delivers a riding experience that feels special every time.

You can get the complete bike from £1775
➪ Buy the Light Blue St Johns Retro Road Bike – Complete

Prefer to build your own dream machine? The frameset starts from just £849.99
➪ Buy the Light Blue St Johns Retro Road Bike – Frameset

Or see all Light Blue bike deals:
➪ Light Blue Bikes at Velostrive

Why We Love the Light Blue St Johns Retro Road Bike

This isn’t just a bike, it’s a statement. It tells the world you value timeless design, quality components, and the unique feel only steel can provide. The Light Blue St Johns is more than a pretty face; it’s a reliable, stylish, and versatile companion for all kinds of rides.

If you’re in the market for a retro road bike that offers genuine performance with loads of charm, this might just be the perfect addition to your collection.

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