INTRODUCING... BABYLDN
BABYLDN is the kind of bike shop that makes perfect sense to us: resourceful, independent, particular and focussed on community. Not the "community" that some brand-shackled running club "established all the way back in March '26" shouts about on socials, but the type of business which stands as a meeting place for bike enthusiasts from around the corner and the globe. The multi-use space functions as a retail store for a host of bespoke craft-focussed brands collected from Japan, the US and Europe. It's also professional bike service shop run by proper thrifty mechanics as well as encourages people to come in and tinker with their own bikes for a donation.
We caught up with Marlon Plein, the owner and main voice at BABYLDN in South East London, to ask him some questions, perv over bikes, drink some beer and a get a front basket fitted.
SWC: What gets you out of bed in the morning and keeps you pushing forward with BABYLDN?
BBYLDN: I’m chasing the perfect build, that ever elusive perfect build…that doesn’t probably exist... so I get to this in infinitum. And so everyday the mission is try to get closer to that ideal..with each build I am able to express my creativity. Stimulate my right brain (or is it left brain) pattern recognition sensibilities. Nurture my hunter gatherer instincts. And fine tune my knack for curation..whilst sharing it, and helping and enjoying the growing community around me.
SWC: What is a notable seemingly “non-bicycle” influence that plays a big part of the brand?
BBYLDN: Music for sure. I liken a bike build to a musical composition. Not any particular genre mind you. Think I’m quite genreless…a bit like a good DJ, I try and blend all my influences into something people (or a specific person) will enjoy..while trying however not to compromise my taste.
SWC: For a newbie wanting to build up a banger, what would be your secret tip?
BBYLDN: A bit like a garment or a shoe, you don’t really wanna sacrifice comfort and looks do you? Same goes with bikes. There are elements in a fit (or bicycle) that make or break it..and that’s ultimately how I help people navigate..but I guess the secret is to start with something you love. It could be a saddle or a palette..but usually it’s a bicycle frame. It should something you wanna ride every time you look at it. If you’re entertaining let’s say a couple of options on eBay or whatever and ones a few quid cheaper but isn’t as nice as the other one you really like then go the extra mile and get the one you like better..worse case you eat pot noodles for week to make up the difference, ain’t that bad :)
SWC: Music seems to be a big part of your life, give us 3 artists or even specific tracks that are on the eternal soundtrack.
BBYLDN: uuffff…I’d say: go and see Theo Parrish dj if he’s ever in a 100mile radius of you..I bust my guts to go see him if he’s in town. I dance my ass off..from house to disco, jazz to rap, techno to classical music..man has no boundaries and yet it’s always mad cohesive and enthralling. Secondly I would say Deepchord..anything of his really, just the lushest immersive dubby techno. Thirdly…uff dunno. I’m really enjoying a fella called Obijuan when it comes to rap. Bizarre flows over really interesting beats.
SWC: In an alternative life where you’re not doing BABYLDN, what are you doing?
BBYLDN: if I wasn’t doin Babyldn, I would probably like to run a music label or curate parties, or radio, or all 3. There’s still time for all that too so don’t count me out. Could also be something Babyldn grows into when it grows up.
SWC: Tell us something most people don’t know about you?
BBYLDN: I don’t know..I guess ppl don’t really know where I’m from. So here ygoes it..I’m an Afro-Saxon from Italy who’s lived in India. Ahaha how’s that?
SWC: Any parting words?
BBYLDN: Be kind. Make beauty. Ride bikes.