Enigma's new Excel 6AL/4V prototype is not only the foundation for the British titanium bike manufacturer's upcoming 20th-anniversary limited-edition model. It will also showcase the future design direction of Enigmas range. With only 20 frames scheduled for production, the new Excel is set to be a collectors item. Each frame will be handmade at Enigmas HQ in Hailsham, Sussex, and made from Grade 5 (6AL/4V) double-butted titanium tubing. The prototype is finished with a satin bead blast, and gold-mirror anodised details, head badge and logos. Jim Walker, Enigmas managing director, says: We are collaborating with our friends at Reynolds Technology, who are aiming to produce a brand-new set of Grade 5 6AL/4V tubing for the bike. We want the frame to be as British and sustainably produced as possible. Read more: Best titanium road bikes in 2026 for smooth and luxurious riding, as reviewed by BikeRadar Enigma Excel 6A1/4V details The tubeset is custom-made for the Excel. Enigma bicycles The frame features 3D-Printed UDH dropouts and a 3D-printed seat cluster. As youll notice from our pictures, Enigma has stayed with a traditional external seat clamp. We believe [a traditional clamp] offers greater long-term security and serviceability than the current trend for concealed push-plate systems," says Walker. "At Enigma, we use 3D printing only where it offers a genuine structural or functional advantage, not purely for aesthetic impact. 3D-printed UDH dropouts Enigma tells us this is an early design and has been refined for the finished bike. Enigma bicycles The bike uses a CNC-machined IS52 head tube and a CNC-Machined T47 bottom bracket shell. Walker says this is because CNC machining delivers much tighter tolerances than 3D printing and a superior surface finish. Its the right choice for high-load, precision interfaces such as head tubes and bottom brackets. The Excel's CNC-machined T47 bottom bracket shell shows Enigma's attention to detail. Enigma bicycles Enigma Excel 6A1/4V design The 3D-printed seat cluster incorporates a subtle Enigma logo. Enigma bicycles The design team at Enigma wants its bikes to combine classic looks with a modern twist. However, it says function should always lead form. Enigma doesnt believe that titanium should mimic carbon fibre aero shapes. Simply, if aerodynamics are your ultimate priority, it believes you should use carbon fibre. Enigma wants to celebrate titaniums qualities and amplify rather than disguise them. Jim is adamant youll never see a titanium aero frameset from Enigma. Its intention is to show off its frame builders' skill with traditional TIG welding, and use a combination of tube diameters, wall thicknesses and butt profiles to influence the ride quality. While the new bike embraces some 3D-printed elements, Walker sees overreliance on this new technology as a limiting factor when it comes to custom bikes, which have been the heart of Enigmas business for two decades. The head tube is CNC-machined from a solid billet. Enigma bicycles Jim tells us: While it is possible to build custom frames around extensive 3D-printed components, it can significantly increase cost and restrict design. A more traditional construction allows almost complete customisation without unnecessary complexity. Mirror gold anodised logos set the Excel apart. Enigma bicycles For Enigma, it's also about longevity and that means reparability. Titanium frames, made conventionally, are fully repairable. When you damage a complex 3D-printed structure, it's difficult if not impossible to rectify. Enigma wants its bikes to last for decades rather than seasons. Enigma bikes have been made in Sussex, UK for 20 years. Enigma bicycles This being a prototype, Enigma hasnt yet listed pricing for the 20th anniversary Excel, alhough the current Excel is priced from 4,070 for a disc frameset.