Over the last week I took out the new single speed for a few rides. Normally I would talk a little about the ride but this time I would like to say a few things about the builders of this amazing ride.
A little over 2 years ago Gabe and Thad starting throwing around the idea of building their own bikes. They talked about different geometry, tube sets, wheel sizes, and all sorts of other things. They figured why buy bikes when they could learn how to build them. So the march was on.
Over the last two years I have seen all sorts of things come out of their shop. 20” rear wheel with 26” front wheel bike. All different types of tubes (square, round, bent, flat, etc.). Seat and headtube angels so crazy I had not idea what to think. Here is where my respect from them happened.
With so much technology out there any one of use could go out and buy a welding machine, an awesome frame gig, and all the best tube sets money could buy, and start building bikes. Gabe and Thad did not do this. They built their first gig. They made mistakes by being creative and trying weird things. They did things just to see what would happen. When people have this much interest in something and they start at the very bottom like this they become very good at what they do. Gabe and Thad learned how to build a straight bike before using fancy tools and gadgets. The gained their knowledge through trial and error. They have the true passion to be frame builders. The bikes these guys are making in only 2 years is amazing. The knowledge they have gained in such little time is impressive. Gabe and Thad thanks a million for my frame….it rocks! Keep up the great work.
http://www.smokebikes.com/
A little over 2 years ago Gabe and Thad starting throwing around the idea of building their own bikes. They talked about different geometry, tube sets, wheel sizes, and all sorts of other things. They figured why buy bikes when they could learn how to build them. So the march was on.
Over the last two years I have seen all sorts of things come out of their shop. 20” rear wheel with 26” front wheel bike. All different types of tubes (square, round, bent, flat, etc.). Seat and headtube angels so crazy I had not idea what to think. Here is where my respect from them happened.
With so much technology out there any one of use could go out and buy a welding machine, an awesome frame gig, and all the best tube sets money could buy, and start building bikes. Gabe and Thad did not do this. They built their first gig. They made mistakes by being creative and trying weird things. They did things just to see what would happen. When people have this much interest in something and they start at the very bottom like this they become very good at what they do. Gabe and Thad learned how to build a straight bike before using fancy tools and gadgets. The gained their knowledge through trial and error. They have the true passion to be frame builders. The bikes these guys are making in only 2 years is amazing. The knowledge they have gained in such little time is impressive. Gabe and Thad thanks a million for my frame….it rocks! Keep up the great work.
http://www.smokebikes.com/
2 comments:
Damn skippy Kirby! Hand-made-especially those made by a neighbor are the best!
You ride is sweet and Smoke bikes are dope!
Keep on pedaling!
Thanks Ken. We have got to get together sometime soon. I really miss riding and hang with ya. Are you still working on get the SS Worlds in Napa?
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