From Philadelphia, USA, we have received some wonderful and cool products from ENGIN CYCLES, who create everything from custom bikes to bolts, bolt bosses, and even frame fixtures!
It all started with an email from RETROTEC’s Curtis.
C: "Do you know Engin Cycles?"
S: "Of course, I’ve seen them—cool frames and products, right!"
It began with a casual exchange like that, but we had always thought the ENGIN CYCLES double-bolt seat collar that started coming with Retrotec framesets was incredibly functional and, above all, cool.
We were introduced to ENGIN CYCLES founder Drew Guldalian, and after being captivated by the various products that showcase his craftsmanship, the relationship between Circles and ENGIN CYCLES began.
Then, at this year’s Philly Bike Expo, we met Drew for the first time and were able to confirm his solid character and skill firsthand.
Engin Cycles possesses high-precision machining technology driven by a machine shop that is surprisingly extensive for a small factory
ENGIN CYCLES is based in Philadelphia, creating beautiful and functional custom bikes, as well as a variety of products manufactured with the highest precision using CNC machines that are surprisingly extensive for such a small workshop.
ENGIN CYCLES’ handmade bikes are machined in-house to extremely strict standards, from the head tube to the dropouts. While it is common for even custom handmade builders to source small parts like ends from larger manufacturers, ENGIN strives to meet their customers’ specific needs by producing every single part in-house.
Original parts that blend modern technology with 90s aesthetics
While keeping a constant pulse on trends in the bicycle industry and manufacturing cutting-edge handmade frames, a major characteristic of Engin Cycles is their ability to produce original parts that are novel, simply beautiful, and reflect a "learning from the past" approach by blending modern technology with the aesthetics of the 90s.
A frame builder who creates the ideal jigs for other frame builders
Engin Cycles’ passion for production extends to the creation of their original frame fixtures.
(A fixture is a tool that allows a bike frame's tubes to be held in a 3D configuration for welding.)
That fixture is called the "Process Fixture."
About 20 years ago, legendary frame builder Bill Grove, who shaped various innovative ideas as Grove Innovations, laid the foundation. Engin Cycles’ Drew, who was inspired and deeply impressed by that design philosophy, incorporated new standards that had evolved in the bike industry over the years to complete this exceptional fixture that convinces everyone who uses it.
The fact that novel ideas, high technology, and passion—shared by people on the same level—could come to fruition after 20 years is what makes American handmade bikes so strong, and it is the reason why Engin Cycles earns the trust of various frame builders, including Curtis.
Let us introduce Engin Cycles’ products
As mentioned, ENGIN CYCLES' parts are truly outstanding. Let’s take a look at the items that have arrived at Circles!
ENGIN CYCLES
Port Royal Crankset
Silver, Black 170mm / for Gravel and MTB
¥86,680 (tax incl.)
The Port Royal Crankset is named after a hill in Philadelphia notorious for being a steep, rough ride.
They say trends revive roughly every 20 years, and isn't that phrase perfect for this crank? You might have felt it the moment you saw it. That's right—this crankset, which bears a passing resemblance to the SHIMANO Deore M700 series, is reminiscent of the cranks that were installed on MTBs from the 1990s and 2000s.
Blending modern technology with 90s aesthetics is no easy feat. However, while this crank has flowing lines similar to old forged cranks, it is blended with contemporary elements like a modern integrated 30mm spindle, weight reduction, and careful attention to stance.
Machined from American-sourced 2024 aluminum (super duralumin), it achieves the highest possible strength-to-weight ratio for aluminum.
This might not be the most suitable product for someone racing at a UCI level, as it is by no means lightweight.
However, as a Made in USA cycling component that is not only beautiful but also matches modern technology, this Port Royal crankset possesses more than enough charm to strongly attract enthusiastic cyclists.
ENGIN CYCLES
Dual Bolt Seat Collar
33.1mm, 34.9mm, 36.4mm / Black, Gloss Purple, Matte Brown, Gloss Silver
¥8,800 (tax incl.)
This Dual Bolt Seat Collar is also manufactured with the highest level of precision possible in ENGIN CYCLES' own workshop.
Consisting of a high stack height and two opposing bolts, this seat collar allows for even clamping over a wide surface area, reducing excessive stress on the frame and seatpost without the need for high torque.
It’s a revival of the 2-bolt style seat collar from the golden age of MTBs.
Finished with beautiful CNC machining and anodized colors, this ingenious ENGIN STYLE seat collar is sure to satisfy anyone looking for high quality.
ENGIN CYCLES
Single Bolt Seat Collar
30.0mm, 31.8mm, 34.9mm / Black, Gloss Purple, Matte Brown, Gloss Silver
¥6,160 ~ 6,820 (tax incl.)
These seat collars fit 30.0mm, 31.8mm, and 34.9mm seat tubes, and are machined to ENGIN CYCLES' strict standards in their unique style.
The 30mm and 31.8mm sizes use an M5 bolt, while the 34.9mm single bolt version uses an M6 bolt. With a much lower stack height than the original dual-bolt design, this simple seat collar fits any bicycle.
Colorful thanks to CNC machining and anodizing, these seat collars are like cufflinks peeking out from a gentleman's sleeve, making your bike look even more elegant and thoughtful.
Please get to know the range of ENGIN CYCLES products, which are packed with appeal and are a staple for RETROTEC’s Curtis—himself famous as an enthusiast for both cars and bicycles.
The parts, produced with excellent machining capabilities that highlight solid design and craftsmanship, are both high-precision and beautiful.
And they are infused with a genuine passion for cycling from corner to corner.
