Boston’s Geekhouse Bikes also entered into this year’s Oregon Manifest competition, and this is their interpretation of ‘The Ultimate Utility Bike’. Marty Walsh and his mustachioed team set themselves a challenge above and beyond that of those set out by the Manifest’s guidelines. While their entry was one of the most challenging projects they’ve tacked together, it’s also one of their grandest.
Inspired by classic French utility bikes, Marty worked with engineer Aarn Panone on the general layout of the frame, as well as the intriguing fenders and chain guard. The frame is actually one of the most innovative that I’ve seen lately, the ‘chain stays’ loop from the front of the seat tube cluster to meet the top tube. The resulting shape that has been formed is reflected in the fenders as a repeated pattern, reminiscent of a stylized leaf. A custom handlebar/front rack combination was manufactured, which, along with the rear rack, has a light system integrated within it, powered by a dynamo front hub. Security is also considered, with a Kryptonite D-lock assimilated into the rear rack. My favorite detail, however, is the brass bell that has been customized with the Geekhouse logo.
The Geekhouse Oregon Manifest Bike is now for sale. It’s definitely one of the most stylish and individual utility bikes out there, designed and built in America with the attention to detail that Geekhouse Bikes are famous for. If you’re interested, shoot Marty an email.
