New Bikes from the Oregon Hand-built Show:

These are the two latest, displayed at OHBS. They were well received, and it was great to talk to so many wonderful folks who love bikes like I do, at the Northwest’s most beloved bazaar of hand-crafted transport. Littleford Bicycles’ trade show debut was a delightful good time, and I’m already excited about some ideas for next year’s show! Of course, those interested and/or  in-the-neighborhood should check out my next bike (now in progress) at the North American Hand-built Bicycle Show in Austin this February.

Craig's classic roadie: fast AND functional

This is Craig’s light and snappy sport tourer.  In order to complement his well-used vintage Campagnolo components, I went for a classic feel with old-fashioned steel road geometry and a pearly antique silver paint job. The lower bottom bracket, longer chain stays, and overlapping seat stays keep things comfortable and perfectly functional for long-hauling.

This bike was the first Littleford to feature a completely integrated rear rack. The horizontal support struts mount flush to the seat stays, discretely fastened by allen bolts from the underside of the stays. When the rack is removed  there are only two small tunnels  remaining. (Coming soon; integrated deer whistles!)

Amalia's little middle-weight mover

Amalia needed a “little bicycle that could” whether hauling a third her weight in camping gear or med school texts, smooth and solid handling under heavy loads was top priority. I took advantage of her need for shorter cranks and brought the bottom bracket way down. This not only improved ride stability, but also lowered the cargo-ready 48cm frame enough for her to stand over it while still keeping the top tube nearly horizontal,  thus reducing “frame flex” to a minimum. Both racks are custom and completely integrated, attaching directly and cleanly to the frame. Additionally  all bottle bosses, drop outs and cable stops are stainless steel. The 26 x 1.25″ wheels and smaller bars and levers keep things proportional. The end result: a pedigree pack mule, rugged as it is refined.

Look for this one again, adorned with beautiful, hand-crafted cargo bags by Portland-based Philosophy Bags, in their show booth at this year’s NAHBS in February.