The Croix de Fer has become the signature of the Genesis range (the best selling bike in the range “by some margin” we’re told).

This ‘nude’ Reynolds 931 represents a more sophisticated take on the utilitarian approach of earlier incarnations. The chromoly fork seems, at first glance at least, an odd juxtaposition, but its capacity for mudguards, rack, and disc mounts made it the first choice, apparently.

While the 931 Croix de Fer continues to sport mechanical disc brakes (Hayes CX Expert), Genesis are actively considering a hydraulic system for model year 2015, we understand: Shimano’s new non-series, Ultegra level Di2 system, a ‘hybrid’ system from Tektro, and even hydraulic brakes from SRAM are among the early candidates.

Elsewhere on the Croix de Fer 931, you’ll find Shimano 105 STI levers and mechs, a non-series Shimano chainset, and Alex Volar tubeless-ready hoops built with some rather attractive, double-butted, stainless steel spokes, mounted with brass nipples.

The Genesis Croix de Fer 931 will cost £1999.99 and will be sold in five sizes from 52cm to 60cm. Elsewhere in the range, there’s a Tiagra-equipped model with a Reynolds 725 chassis, priced at £1,149.99, and the CDF, a Reynolds 520 option (in fetching metallic silver) with a Shimano Sora groupset for £849.99.