In 2015, Giles Butcher contacted me and said…

I have a Graham Tomlinson bike. Any idea how I can tell who made the frame? I found a number and some letters on the bottom bracket section. I had to scrape the paint to see it clearly it reads PJ 16. I am presuming this frame was built by Stan Pike’s son, Philip? Do you agree?

In the early 80’s Graham Tomlinson set up his own cycle shop (Graham Tomlinson Cycles)  in Wellington, Somerset. His first name branded frames were built by Stan and Phil Pike who taught Graham the art of frame building.

I forwarded the photos to Stan’s son, Steve and he replied…

Yes, it is one of ours. 22 & 1/2″ frame built from 531 tubing. Was trying to figure the age and not too sure, but at a guess I’d say circa 1979/80.

Giles was understandably very happy. He said…

Wow! Great news! Thanks for your support researching this. The bike frame is too small for me, which is a shame. I intend to sell it. I needed the wheels, which is why I bought it.

Giles sold the frame. The next owner then sold it on to Hilary Stone where it’s available to buy for a very reasonable £195 – see here for further details (scroll halfway down the page).

Graham Tomlinson’s wife has been in touch to say some decals for  Tomlinson frames are still available. Get in touch through the contact form and I can forward your details to Graham.

Thanks to Hilary Stone for allowing me to use the above photographs.