Classic styling and great practicality combine to create the Dawes Duchess Hybrid bike. This is another bike that fits prettily into the retro-look category, yet offers up-to-the-minute components and finish.

In keeping with tradition on this genre of bike, the Duchess has a steel frame and forks. So, in other words, it’s built to last. The bike also boasts a full chain guard (to avoid getting oil on the hems of your trousers or skirts) and proper mudguards on front and back tyres (to deflect the mud and wet from the road or cycle path).

The period look is finished off with rubber-block pedals, a leather-style saddle, comfy-grip handlebar covers and a rattan-effect front shopping basket. Now shopping at your local food outlet will be an elegant affair.

The Duchess doesn’t lack modern additions, either. Dawes have thoughtfully accessories the bike with Shimano 7-speed gears. For those who don’t know, Shimano is one of the most iconic names in 21st century gears and these components are made to perform beautifully.

Other modern touches come by way of alloy wheel rims, a seatpost and front hubs.

The style of this bike offers a comfortable trip thanks to the upright position of the rider. You’ll see that the handlebars are higher than the seat and so the adopted riding position will save you from a sore back.

The shape and width of the handlebars also gives greater steering control, so if you happen to be a woman who is returning to cycling after many years out of the saddle you are going to love the Dawes Duchess bike.

We’ll bet you like this bike, which comes in plum, mint or white shades, so much that you keep it clean and shiny and prop it up in your hallway, when not out and about. No-one will blame you for wanting to admire this gorgeous bike 24/7.