Charge 2016: Plug updated with aluminium frame, carbon fork and wider tyres

The Plug has been a staple of the Charge Bikes lineup since 2006 when it was an iconic bike in the London fixed wheel craze, before evolving, and merging with the Filter, to become a range of mostly disc-equipped road bikes.

For 2016 the Plug gets a major update. A new aluminium frame is used across most of the range, with a new titanium model spearheading the lineup, and carbon fibre forks and tyre widths increased to 38 and 42mm.

Last year’s Plug, with a steel frame, fork and disc brakes, was well received. Stu really got on well with the Plug 4 last year when he reviewed it. Charge are keen to point out that the remit of the Plug isn’t to be a road racing bike, it’s aimed at commuters and those wanting an adventure type of bike. It would also be an ideal touring bike as well especially if you expect to encounter mixed surfaces.

Last year the Plug used a steel frame and fork across the entire range. It’s been replaced with a new 6061 aluminium frameset and fork used on all but the top-end model, that one gets a titanium frame, the first time the Plug name has graced such an expensive frame material.

No major changes have been made to the geometry though, so the handling should be similar, if not enhanced by the frame material change.

There will be six Plug models for 2016, starting from £349.99 and rising to £2,499.

Starting the range is the Plug 0 (£349.99) which is essentially the same singlespeed/fixed wheel Plug from the previous range, but updated with a 38mm Kenda Kwick Tendril tyre with a tan sidewall.

The Plug 2, 3, 4 and 5 share some common updates. Each uses a new carbon fibre fork, with a straight 1 1/8in steerer tube and mudguard eyelets and a regular quick release axle. The frames are 6061 aluminium now, titanium on the range-topping Plug 5, and cable routing now goes along the underside of the down tube (it used to be across the top tube and down tube).

These bikes will be made available from September this year.