The randonneur is one of the oldest touring bike concepts: a classic-looking steel frame with lightweight wheels, aerodynamic and easy-to-grip racing handlebars and pannier rack that allows a cyclist to cover long distances efficiently and without wasting energy. Stainless steel tubes from Reynolds, Columbus and Poppe & Potthoff under pearl blue paint form the frame of the Aaland from Norwid. High-density microfusion sleeves connect the tubes to form a stable whole, which utilises the typical steel flex on the fork and frame to provide comfort, but requires a skilled hand for fast load changes.
Solid, lightweight wheels are a matter of course, double-pressed and hand-centred. So much craftsmanship costs money: Cleaning, brushing and polishing the seat tube lug alone costs 149 euros. Frame builder Pallesen equips his frame with a Rohloff hub, Gates belt and disc brakes. On the disc side, a soldered stainless steel plate braces the filigree rear triangle. At the rear axle, things get downright technical: the dropout combines axle offset with double retaining and length adjustment bolts, Rohloff torque arm, carrier, sheet metal struts, upright and disc mounting. The contrast to the filigree, classic steel frame could hardly be starker. The voluminous Thomson seat post and stem don't really fit in stylistically either.
The Van Nicholas racing handlebars can be split to fit the Rohloff twist grip. Its dimensions are unseasonably long and tightly curved, and the ergonomics could be more comfortable. In addition, you have to reach round to brake, change gear and ring the bell - unpleasant in heavy traffic. The Aaland places its rider in the centre and centrally; as long as the hands remain on the handlebars, the moderate lateral stiffness due to the material is not too noticeable, even with a luggage load. This makes the Aaland a classic choice for epic tours on tarmac roads with little traffic: from the front door straight to the horizon.
Conclusion: Individuality and durability characterise the Norwid: Norwid combines classic steel and traditional lugged construction with top-class craftsmanship and a low-maintenance Rohloff/Gates drive to create a long-distance randonneur. There are some stylistic and ergonomic flaws, but you can either like them or get used to them. They do not detract from the enjoyable use of the classic touring racer.
