Charge Plug Bike

Only established in 2006, Charge Bikes have carved a niche in the growing market of ‘cool’ single speed. With sleek minimalistic designs, they have proved quite popular, especially in London. For those expecting minimalistic single speed to be cheaper, charge will disappoint as they target the £400 to £500 price range. But, this is still less than some other brands of single speed.

Charge Plug

The most popular Charge bike, the plug is on sale for less than £500. Despite being single speed it isn’t the lightest bike (around 22lbs, which is quite heavy given price tag), but, the solid steel frame is durable and reliable. The Steel frame also helps absorb a bumpier ride.

There is a choice of dropouts for example, the Charge Plug Griffin comes with horizontal dropouts. The New Charge Plug comes with bullhorn bars, these are a little more aerodynamic and help enable a stronger push when pedalling the single speed off from a standing start. They also help the bike stand out from the pack

The frame and fork is a cro-molo (,ainly steel) Tange Plain Gauge. The gearing is by default a 42 tooth chainring by 16 rear cog. Should be enough to get up all but the steepest hills. Tektro caliper brakes are good quality, though like many bikes off the peg, it is worth upgrading the tyres. Many have felt the Kenda tyres offer poor performance. Upgrading to any of a  wide range of better commuting tyres, will help offer better puncture protection and also a better quality ride. Personally, I like to put something like Armadillos tyres on commuting bikes. They are very strong, resistant and great at resisting punctures.

A quick test ride of the charge plug was enjoyable. It’s very different riding a single speed to a normal road commuting bike. Of course, lower end road bikes are cheaper than these single speed. But, at £500, the Charge road bikes offer a good value single speed, which is both good looking and solid components.

Given that one of the main attractions of these single speed bikes is the aesthetics, it would be worth charge considering offering custom paint colours. There is a reasonable choice between different versions. But, clearly choice of handlebars and colour are two big factors for people choosing between single speeds.

When buying a single speed like the charge plug, you have to bear in mind, there are no mudguard, pannier eyes. It is good for sleek looks, but, not so practical if you want to be carrying more than in a messengers bag.

• Charge Single Speed bikes at Evans Cycles
• Charge Plug bikes at Wiggle
• Best Commuting bikes under £500
• Single Speed Bikes

• Charge Bikes.com