He's back with a cool new project — Rob Forbes, the founder of Design Within Reach (who left DWR in 2007) is launching PUBLIC on April 15th. PUBLIC is a collection of modern bikes and gear inspired by a "passion for bicycling in style."
From the PUBLIC site:
We’re joining the movement this spring with a small collection of modern bikes and gear. We will be launching this collection in April. Our bikes have been designed around the style and principles of the classic city bikes of Europe, updated with new technology and modern materials, and adapted to the U.S. market. We have two classic European frame styles, both unisex, both made from strong lightweight steel. We designed them for all sizes and ages and made them especially female-friendly. We will have four colors and three gear configurations all using internal hubs. We think our bikes are pretty, but you can be the judge.
PUBLIC bikes have been designed around the style and principles of the classic European bike. They encourage an upright posture and better visibility. We have two frame styles, both unisex, both made from strong, lightweight steel. Our bikes will come in four colors and three gear configurations (1, 3, 8-speed) all using internal hubs.
All PUBLIC bikes come with a comfortable seat, chain guard, fenders, kickstand and reflective stripes on tires for safer night riding. Prices will range from $650 to $1,200.
MORE ROB FORBES
• Studio Forbes
• Rob Forbes Calling: Job Offers at His New Startup
Posted originally from: AT:New York
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Comments (4)
They're gorgeous, but that's a lot of cheddar to pay for a bike.
they are, indeed lovely AND pricey, for the lady who favors wearing trousers. To cycle to the office or subway in a skirt or dress, however, you'll need to look to the European "Damenrad": low crossbar and a wider seat.
for a decently built and usable bicycle (as these appear) that really isn't such a lot of scratch. It does not state where the bikes are being produced (so I'm assuming it's overseas). If they were built here in the States, we'd see even higher prices, I imagine.
Is anyone at all interested in finding out where they are made? I think that would be something to take into consideration when deciding on a purchase. I am on the periphery of the bicycle industry, so I understand that most major companies don't make anything in the US anymore, and you must justify, to yourself, that this item did cause the expenditure resources to GET to us. (shipping process, etc).
Bicycling is one of the most earth-friendly modes of transportation, (walking being another!) and a well-built bike that is comfortable, easy to ride and useful cannot be beat. There are other options, but frankly they cost similar amounts of money. There is a big difference between something you might purchase from a very large box store and your local bike shop. Your bike purchase from your local shop supports your community, and your bike will also be taken care of. Sure, it could cost a bit more, but you are getting a higher quality product.
If you want to see some bikes that do cost some serious money, are hand built in the USA check this out: www.moots.com
The "CoMooter" their town bike, is super cool, retails for ~$9K. yup. I know.
My first thought is that I'd never buy a new bike that would require so much work to become legal where I live. No front or rear lights, no front or rear reflexes. This does remind me though that I should get to the basement and do some maintenance on my old bike. :) And I LOVE the bags on the first bike, thinking of making my own version!