What is a J. Livingston bike? [Bend Velo]

Ronda's Christmas present, thanks Toby

Inspired by John Livingston, these bikes are recycled steel bikes assembled at Bend Velo in Bend Oregon. These unique bikes started life as 70’s and 80’s mountain bikes and are rebuilt and reborn as practical town bikes.

Bend Velo is committed to local business. We currently use a local powdercoater, we now feature custom chainguards produced here in Bend, Oregon. And, we have started to use CORIL clients for the disassembly of our bikes.

If you don't know about CORIL, please check them out through this LINK.

What is the process involved?

The old bike is inspected and then completely disassembled. All parts are removed and sorted by what can be reused, and what should be discarded (recycled). The stripped frame and fork are then sand blasted and locally powder coated. A new set of brand new (J. Livingston) decals and  custom single front chainring are instaled. A mixture of old and new parts are then installed. The bike is tested, refined, and offered for sale. The result is a unique (no two are ever the same) practical bike that is comfortable for short to medium range trips.

What’s so special about a J. Livingston build?

Because these bikes are built to be used everyday for many uses, they have many features not found on today’s “specialty bikes”. We are strong believers that town bikes should have the following items:

Upright Riding Position: Every J. Livingston is sized and built so that the rider is in a very comfortable upright riding position (handlebars above the seat). These days many of our bikes are built and set-up for an aerodynamic position, that’s great for racing, but not ideal for comfort. J. Livingston bikes are comfortable to ride.

Fenders: When you have fenders riding in less than perfect weather is not an excuse to drive. Discover how fun it is to zip through a puddle and not get your shoes or back wet. Riding with fenders lets you feel like a kid again.

Racks and Baskets: Backpacks are fine for backpackers, but weight on your person isn’t great for riding. There are a number of good strong affordable racks and baskets that make bikes much more useful. A good set of panniers can hold most of what we take along in our cars.

Kickstands: Once you have one you’ll wonder how you lived without one.

J. Livingston bikes are constantly evolving. They reflect the needs of the end user, and strive to make us as a community less dependent on cars. They can be built to order with special colors and designs that best suit the rider’s purpose.

If this sounds like a bike you’d like to own, please contact us or come in to our shop at 1212 NE 1st Street in Bend, Oregon.  We are right off Greenwood near Miller Lumber. Thanks.

[Bend Velo]