Safety in mind
Established in 1973, Oxford Products is a leading global supplier of products for those on two wheels. We sent Stu Smith to the company’s HQ to find out more about the business, and what it does...
Oxford Products is a leading global supplier of products for those on two wheels. Stu Smith went to its HQ to find out more about the company and what it does...
Having familiarised myself with the company’s well-worded corporate overview, I set off for the day’s briefing with marketing director Henry Rivers-Fletcher at the company’s 100,000sq ft purposebuilt headquarters, known as the ‘Mother Ship’ in Oxford. After a warm welcome and an explanation of the day ahead, I set off with others to check out what went on behind the scenes.
The inside track
Our first stop was in the main admin offices where the various accounts are handled. Henry explained that this was the area where consumer and trade customer accounts were handled, which included UK bike shops and overseas exports. “The company’s business objectives and mindset promotes a friendly, family orientated team-working environment, which is geared towards delivering the best customer service possible,” Henry explained.
Next it was over to the research, design and quality control departments. There we were shown how Oxford’s products are designed and developed on the CAD (computer-aided design) and 3D printing systems. Henry explained that the computer systems aid in the creation, modification, analysis and optimisation of a design. It was clear that the company’s quest for the best quality gear and items was its highest priority. “Design and development is critical to the process, but we’re also constantly learning and developing through research and we’re always looking for constant improvements. The compliance and quality team work closely with the designers, checking and assessing everything before it goes out for production.”
Oxford’s designers have a wide range of backgrounds. “Their specialised knowledge and experience allows them to decide how things should look, both technically and practically. They combine these considerations with other important features to achieve the best results and the maximum amount of safety possible,” Henry added.
Rigorous testing
The final stop was in the laboratory testing facility where we were given demonstrations of how items are put through rigorous testing conditions. “It’s not only about product development, but it’s also about delivering reassurance to our customers. The tests we complete are
not just ‘pass or fail’ tests and in the event of any issues being identified we establish the reason, rectify it and improve the item accordingly.”
The tensile testing demonstration was particularly impressive with a paddockstand being put through its paces. We were also shown the test results of swatches of material, which had been put through meticulous seam strength tests and the UV ‘Neck Comfy’ test results were reassuring.
Lastly, it was explained how the in-house accelerated weather testing machine subjects items to extreme weather conditions. The laboratory team explained that the machine itself was able to deliver three years’ worth of outdoor conditions in 500 hours! And it was also able to deliver four hours of 100% humidity repeated 500 times, which was described as being similar to spending two years in Florida! (Although I have to say – out of the two options, if I were to be road testing any of the items I’d be quite happy to volunteer myself to ‘endure’ two years in Florida!)
Integrity
With the guided tour complete, we then had lunch and a briefing from Henry about Oxford’s HJC helmet range, which was followed by an interesting presentation about the technical procedures and science behind the development of all the items in Oxford’s range.
The laboratory team explained that the machine itself was able to deliver three years’ worth of outdoor conditions in 500 hours! And it was also able to deliver four hours of 100% humidity repeated 500 times, which was described as being similar to spending two years in Florida!
It is clear that Oxford Products develops and manufactures high quality two-wheel gear. The design, development and testing of its range is reassuring. This is carried out with integrity and thoroughness, and with a critical eye for rider safety, security, practicality and rideability, while retaining the aesthetic looks that we all want. Words: Stu Smith
Photos: Stu Smith and Charlie Oakman