When I started Olsen Bicycles, I was faced with choosing the name for the company. Olsen is obviously a scandinavian surname name passed down from my ancestors. Despite being a New Zealander by birth, I have lived in the UK for the past 20 years and call this home. Originally, I was basing the names of my frames on Maori place names in New Zealand, but this does not fit with the area where we developed the bikes.
I've resumed renaming my frames according to the location where we created them. The pubs along the South Downs Way. The British pub is a refuge of safety along the SDW. a location to refuel, recharge, and escape the weather. Also, you can meet nice, hilarious, eccentric, and sympathetic people in pubs.
The South Downs way is a neolithic trade route which is popular to cycle the 100miles. It is has over 10 climbs over the 100 miles. It is a challenge to do it in 1 day. The South Downs Way has a long and rich history, and is steeped in myths, folklore, and legend.
Along the way, cyclists can stop and rest at some of the charming pubs that are scattered along the route. In this blog, we'll take a look at some of the most popular pubs along the South Downs Way, including The Ram, The Swan, The Lamb, 8 Bells, Ginger Fox and Tiger Inn.
The Ram - this is our Enduro Frame, 148mm rear end and upto 150mm Fork, burly like a Ram...The Ram Inn is in Firle, with a large beer garden that is perfect for enjoying a refreshing pint on a sunny day.
The Swan - this is the Trail frame, versatile 27.5+ or 29er? Available in two versions; 1/ T47 bottom bracket for the ultimate in drivetrain versatility or 2/ The Pinion Gearbox.
The Swan is a popular pub in Lewes with a great garden.
The Lamb - this is our Cross-Gravel frame. Also available in two versions; 1/ T47 bottom bracket for the ultimate in drivetrain versatility or 2/ The Pinion Gearbox.
The Lamb is in Eastbourne that has been serving customers since the 16th century. 
The Eight Bells - this is our Gravel Frame, as Bells are relivant to cycling.
Located in Jevington the 8 Bells has a beautiful beer garden that is perfect for enjoying a pint in the sunshine.
The Tiger - this is our contemporary 29+ frame that is popular with Bikepackers
The Tiger Inn is a historic pub in East Dean (not too far from the finish in Eastbourne). The Tiger has a beautiful beer garden that overlooks the surrounding countryside.
The Ginger Fox - This is our Cross Country frame with internal cables..
Located 7miles from Brighton, this pub has a relaxed restaurant in the rural setting of the South Downs.
The pubs along the South Downs Way offer a welcome respite for cyclists attempting the South Downs Way. From traditional English pubs with roaring fireplaces to charming village pubs with beautiful beer gardens, there is something for everyone. So, next time you're cycling along the South Downs Way, make sure to stop and enjoy a pint or two at one of these fantastic pubs.
