Starling Cycles’ First (and only) Carbon Frame

Starling Cycles have made a Carbon eMTB frame. But just the one and they promise not to make any more...

Before you dive into the comments to say how ugly this bike is, read on. It’s more function over form, designed during a research project. It is quite ugly, though.

Press Release:

This ‘Starling’ eMTB frame is a really special, one-off research project that we’re working on with the National Composites Centre.

Long story short, the NCC wanted to invest in the development of new carbon technology, specifically braided thermoplastic tubes with novel design lugs. Versus ‘traditional’ carbon fibre, this approach is more resistant to damage, is easier to repair, can be repurposed in a much easier way and takes less energy to produce. The benefits of all of that should be obvious.

The project was super interesting and helped the NCC develop the technology significantly, but, isn’t complete. There’s still work to be done before we can build a rideable prototype or this approach to carbon can be made more widely available.

You can read all about the project (and why we won’t be making a carbon bike any time soon) over on Starling’s latest Tech Journal.


Singletrack Merch

Digital Gift Subscription

We send out a code on a card for the recipient to redeem. If you would like this sent to another person please enter their details in Shipping Address at checkout.    

Singletrack Sponsored Features

Mountain Days and Bothy Nights โ€“ at home in the outdoors with Lyon Equipment

A trip to outdoor maestros, Lyon Equipment, gives Sanny the perfect excuse to go on a microadventure in the heart of the Lakes.

Dalby Bike Barn

We are based on the A170/Whitbyย Gate junction right in the centre of the village Thornton Le Dale offering high expertise on all things bike- stocking the best brands with bike and electric bike hire and a comprehensive Service Centre. Expert Guiding and Instruction will also be available for all group…


Author Profile Picture
Amanda Wishart

Art Director

Amanda is our resident pedaller, who loves the climbs as much as the descents. No genre of biking is turned down, though she is happiest when at the top of a mountain with a wild descent ahead of her. If you ever want a chat about concussion recovery, dealing with a Womb of Doom or how best to fuel an endurance XC race, she's the one to email.

More posts from Amanda