The Gosforth AIRLIGHT - Classic steel frame geometry in a modern, lightweight alloy.
When you throw a leg over the top tube of a Gosforth AIRLIGHT frame, you're stepping over the divide between eras. Horizontal geometry and traditional component spec pair up with a US made Carpenter Custom 630 alloy - every bit a modern lightweight super steel.
In an industry where the lines between innovation and marketing hype are often blurred, the Airlight gives a ride as plush and springy as when it's geometry was in vogue - thirty years ago. Its timeless design means it will continue to do so for the next thirty years too.
We shouldn't go further without mentioning the inimitable ride quality of steel. It has a lively, responsive feel that other materials can lack. Ride quality is admittedly a subjective assessment; however, there's a reason why steel retains a reputation among those in the know for taking on everything from a century sportive to an hours blast in the late summer sun. Maybe your local club scene harbours similar pockets of devotion too.
Ordering information
The Gosforth Airlight comes by default in unbranded, bare stainless steel.
If you would prefer to pay by PayPal, bank transfer or over the phone, or have a question to ask us, email on hello@gosforth.cc and we'll call you back.
Carpenter Custom 630 stainless steel alloy (akin to Reynolds 931). Proudly TIG-welded by hand in Taiwan.
The AIRLIGHT's main triangle uses short-butted tubes at 0.4mm/0.7mm to move stresses away from the weld area and optimise for stiffness and weight. Seat stays are a skinny 16mm diameter to dampen vibration to the saddle.
The component spec is on the traditional side, ensuring groupset options from Shimano, Campag and Sram will all work seamlessly.
There is plenty of choice when it comes to headsets, such as a Chris King No Threadset, Cane Creek or Hope. All the main carbon brands make compatible forks, including Enve, Ritchie, Columbus, Planet-X or our own matching stainless steel or carbon options.
Component Sizes:
1 1/8 inch external headset
English threaded 68mm BB
32mm banded front mech
27.2mm seat post
31.8mm seat post collar
Up to 700x25c tyres
(No braze-ons for mudguards or racks)
A 0° horizontal top tube geometry and minimal styling makes for one elegant looking bike.
Head and seat angles are in the neutral range giving composed steering and a balanced position - great for both long days or a quick hour.
The debate surrounding the benefits of a compact vs traditional geometry will rumble on. A longer seat tube means less seatpost, which may afford benefits for comfort, especially if you are longer limbed.
In the AIRLIGHT we think we've made an heirloom-worthy frame, which will make you want to ride further and faster and put a bigger smile on your face.
Sizing is shown the Italian way - by seat tube length:
| Size | Top tube | Seat tube | Seat tube C-C | Seat angle | Chain stay | BB drop | Head tube* | Head angle | Trail | Grams |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 51 | 527 | 510 | 475 | 74.8 | 400 | 68 | 91 | 72.0 | 63 | 1455 |
| 53 | 535 | 530 | 505 | 74.0 | 402 | 68 | 108 | 72.0 | 63 | 1487 |
| 55 | 545 | 550 | 525 | 74.0 | 404 | 68 | 126 | 72.5 | 59 | 1525 |
| 57 | 557 | 570 | 545 | 73.5 | 410 | 68 | 143 | 72.5 | 59 | 1559 |
| 59 | 572 | 590 | 565 | 73.0 | 412 | 68 | 160 | 73.0 | 56 | 1597 |
| 61 | 587 | 610 | 590 | 72.8 | 413 | 68 | 171 | 73.0 | 56 | 1630 |
* With an external headset you will gain around 20mm on the head tube measurement shown depending on the headset's stack height.
Trail calculated with 45mm fork rake and 23mm tyres.
