Dario Pegoretti injects an Italian dash of spirit and panache to the world of bespoke bicycles.

One of the most colourful characters in the bicycle industry, Pegoretti's hand-painted frames, coupled with his technical innovations and custom-drawn steel tubes, are instantly recognisable (whether they're to your taste or not). 

With names like 'Big Leg Emma' (referencing a song by The Mothers of Invention), 'Day Is Done' and '8.30 am', it's only fitting that Pegoretti frames should have paintwork to match.

The 'Ciavete' paint scheme is available as an optional extra. If you tick that box your frame will be painted with whatever Pegoretti chooses at the time. There's a waiting period of up to one year for a custom frame, but it means you'll have the honour of owning a real work of art.

Adam Leddin worked as a bike courier in Sydney for seven years and is now the editor of Cycle EXIF. His site showcases classic, custom and handmade bikes, and the stories of people who build and ride them.