Dan Pleikes probably builds the nicest titanium bikes in Germany. That doesn’t stop him from being the victim of bicycle theft so when his beloved cargo bike was stolen, he wrangled a much less conspicuous vintage MTB into service — but his style is obvious.
If you managed to read the article on Dan and his Wheeldan workshop in Gestalten’s latest VeloCity book, you’ll have gained an insight into his methods and practices which also reveal the high standard of his titanium frame construction.
Before frame building Dan practiced as an architect, which is currently revealed through his considered use of materials and purpose. He would also quickly apply his Ti welding skills to making balance bikes for his son and mini cargo commuter bikes for himself.
When one was stolen from outside the workshop, he received numerous condolences and a message from a friend who specializes in converting retro MTBs into commuter bikes — an ugly duckling had been donated and would Dan like to commandeer it?
Dan agreed and invested in parts to complete it; namely, a Pelago rack and Inside Line Equipment bag, Nitto Albatross bars, and a thumb shifter. A wheel with a Schmidt Nabendynamo hub was acquired, along with a used pair of cranks, and rear wheel.
A Lightskin seatpost with integrated light was installed, which Dan internally wired to the Nabendynamo. Longus is the in-house brand of Shimano import company, Paul Lange, who’d do well to follow Dan’s lead for styling. It’s ticking all our boxes.
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