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In 2014, Chainsmith was born from a shared passion for cycling and the deep desire to transform lives.

Founders Alison McGregor and David Piacenti first crossed paths working in a Sydney bike shop, both drawn there by the joy and freedom of riding. David had recently moved from Italy to seek new opportunities. Alison, after completing a PhD, was worn out by academic institutions and wrestling with the “business” side of art practice. Ready for a new direction and taking a new leap of faith, each left their careers to create an impact via the cycling industry. It was at a bike shop that the two met, and it didn’t take long for David and Alison to bond over their shared belief that cycling could, and should, be a personal journey with purpose—one that could positively alter both mind and body. Within a year, the duo began building Chainsmith using their diverse talents and interests. Hence, a boutique bike shop developed that specialised in Italian custom bikes tailored to each rider’s physical needs and athletic dreams.

Before the Chainsmith days, Alison and David witnessed how the cycling industry, and larger corporations, only catered to a general public and had limited ability to cater to personal characteristics or painpoints. The team pinpointed several flaws in the running of modern bike shops that inflamed many problems individuals were suffering such as:

Injury or discomforts
Limited flexibility
Lack of aesthetic input in the overall look
Limitation in bikes serving endurance purpose for riders who were not primed as professionals

From David’s perspective from the workshop, and Alison’s view from sales and marketing, it was obvious that modern bike shops were often set up to offer clients limited floor stock - including unsuitable bikes, incorrect sizes or insufficient components. The bike shop approach to selling off-the-shelf bikes, felt impersonal and disconnected from the cyclists' unique goals. They imagined a different approach for Chainsmith—one inspired by Italy’s tradition of handmade craftsmanship, offering bespoke bikes that were fitted to each rider like a fine suit. Over the years, David and Alison have cultivated partnerships with Italy’s most renowned frame builders, traveling annually to meet with them, discuss materials and technology, and witness the meticulous construction that defined their custom offerings.

Chainsmith’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. Running a small, independent bike shop, especially in the face of fluctuating exchange rates, online discounting, inflation, and the pressures of larger corporate competitors, has demanded grit, passion, and a commitment to quality over quick sales. But these challenges have only strengthened their resolve. The Chainsmith Team embraced the hard work, valuing relationships with clients who want more than just a bike—they want a partner in their journey to better health, deeper connections, and the joy of achieving personal milestones.

Now, nearly a decade in and with the addition of Ben Blackshaw, Chainsmith has become a trusted name for Australian cyclists who seek the thrill of a custom bike built not just for speed, but for the personal joy and accomplishment of every ride..