A Classic
There was a time when the main mode of transportation was by bicycle. It’s easy to picture. A small French village, it’s the early morning and one wants to grab fresh eggs from the market. A quick hop on a yellow, worn-down bicycle does just the trick. Today, riding a bicycle has become less and less common. With trains, cars and other means of public transportation a bicycle almost seems like a last resort. Linus is looking to change that.
Based in Los Angeles, California Linus Bikes preserves the simple elegance and pure form of the golden era, but has all the benefits of modern comfort and reliability. The unique style feels like the bikes are from the 50s or 60s, but are built to handle the wear and tear of any city. The design is stripped of any over-bearing logos and only bears a bold, white font reading, “Linus” on the side. The style is straight with clean lines and monochromatic colors. Even more so, the bike is built to last. Linus sees potential and promise in transportation by bike. From trips to the store or a local coffee shop or even work, riding a bike can transport you nearly anywhere.
A main objective of Linus is to alter the strong misconception of the commuter bike. This type of bike is often compared to the ‘practical’ family sedan and mini vans of the world. It was a simple, purpose-driven mode of transportation. However, Linus believes that the commuter bike has the potential to be so much more. With Linus bikes there’ style, purpose and flexibility. They offer a variety of different models, for both men and women, that are built around a variety of needs. Plus, if there’s anything you don’t like, there’s an opportunity to change it. Customers have the option of visiting the Linus store in Venice, California and watching their bike be put together. Not only is it a great way for customers to learn more about what they are riding, but it’s a chance to make any necessary modifications. Plus, with a price tag ranging from $500 to $1,000 there’s an option for everyone. Not to mention, these bikes are meant to last.
In addition to the bike design, Linus has also crafted a variety of built-in accessories, such as fenders and racks to cater to bumpy roads or wet weather. Even the saddles on the bike come in a variety of options. One of the company’s saddle models is even known to handle over 100,000 miles proving style doesn’t have to be a cost of functionality. On the sides of bikes or nestled in the front basket one can often find a 50s or 60s styled bag or backpack.
The founders are Linus Bikes, Adam McDermott and Chad Kushner grew up in South Africa. They both found inspiration for Linus through the bicycle-centric cities in Europe and Asia. They saw a great opportunity in an already well-established tradition. The two founders specifically settled down in Venice because of the similarities the city had with bicycle-friendly cities across the world. Venice had perfect weather and ample area to explore on bike, but mainly it had a opportunity for a new entrant of transportation. While its typical for most to ride a bicycle along the beach side, McDermott and Kushner wanted to show that same mentality could be applied to every day commutes. In a city where parking is a nightmare and bike stands are ample it’s no surprise Linus Bikes excelled in the way they have. Their next challenge? Bring their revolution to the east coast.
