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Portland Bike Shop's Custom-Made Electric Bicycles Intensify Emotional Responses

Portland's tinier bike store launches a campaign for a restricted series of artisanal e-bicycles, challenging certain market norms.

Custom Electric Bicycles at Portland Bike Shop Inspire Emotional Response
Custom Electric Bicycles at Portland Bike Shop Inspire Emotional Response

Portland Bike Shop's Custom-Made Electric Bicycles Intensify Emotional Responses

In the heart of Portland, a small bicycle shop named Nomad Cycles has embarked on an exciting journey. They have launched a Kickstarter campaign to produce a limited series of innovative e-bikes, aiming to reach a broader market beyond their immediate location.

Two models are featured in their crowdfunding campaign: the Nomad Doubledown and the Kickback. The Kickback, priced at $5,500, resembles an old Schwinn cruiser from the 1960s or 70s, with a long, flat seat and pedals moved forward in the parallel beam lower-step frame. The Doubledown, another offering from Nomad Cycles, boasts a rail-mounted, removable 10-amp-hour battery and a mid-drive CYC 750-Watt motor.

Both models can be equipped with either a mid-drive 750-Watt CYC motor or a 1,000-Watt CYC rear hub motor with torque sensor. This versatility allows riders to choose the power that best suits their needs. Oregon regulations, unlike many states in the U.S., allow for stronger 1,000-Watt motors on e-bikes, further enhancing the riding experience.

The e-bikes produced by Nomad Cycles are built to last and designed to be easy for owners or bike shops to repair. This addresses a common issue with many current e-bike models - short lifespans and proprietary parts. Nomad bikes are also modular and user-repairable, with high-quality components from well-established companies.

The Kickback, like the Doubledown, can also be had with different batteries for longer range. Buyers can choose from six colours or opt for custom paint and other finish details for both models. The Nomad Doubledown weighs 47 pounds, which is lighter than many commuter e-bikes, making it a practical choice for daily commuters.

Interestingly, the Nomad Doubledown's rear frame section has a bit of flex, designed to smooth out the ride while maintaining the efficiency of a hardtail frame while pedaling. This unique feature sets Nomad Cycles apart from many e-bike manufacturers.

Nomad Cycles also offers a service to convert customers' current analog bikes to e-bikes for $2,000. This retrofitting service allows more people to enjoy the benefits of e-bikes without having to invest in a new bike.

In addition to e-bikes, Nomad Cycles sells and services regular bikes, as well as some familiar e-bike brands. The batteries and motor in Nomad bikes are not integrated into the frame, allowing for easy upgrades or removal. This flexibility ensures that the bikes remain relevant and adaptable to changing technology and rider needs.

Supporting this Kickstarter campaign isn't just about getting a unique, high-quality e-bike. It's about being part of a movement that aims to bring innovative, bespoke e-bikes to a wider audience. So, whether you're an e-bike enthusiast or simply someone looking for a practical and stylish means of transportation, consider backing Nomad Cycles' Kickstarter campaign today.

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