I really like the swept back handle bars. I just wish that I could have had the option of having them come with original bike order rather than having to order them in addition to the bike which came with the other handle bars. Why not let people choose which handle bars they like?
Thank you so much for sharing. Unfortunately, it is more challenging that it appears to offer the bespoke handlebar option you suggest. Without boring you with the details, the current scenario is the most efficient option available without designing an entirely new bike with the handlebar being the sole differentiator. The relaxed ride handlebars are significantly better received in the market, hence us opting for that style by default. Thanks again for your feedback. -Ryan Zagata
Just wanted to drop a note to say my birthday bike has been assembled, picked up and road-tested. I adore it!! I asked my wife to find the perfect bike for me and after researching, she came up with Brooklyn Bicycle's Franklin model. It is indeed, the perfect bike for me. The whole process from start to finish (including personal service from founder Ryan and having the bike professionally assembled as part of the price) was exceptional. Thanks for the great product!
Happy Birthday Rachel. It was our pleasure to help make this an easy process for you and I'm glad we succeeded. Thank you to your wife for the referral. - Ryan Zagata
The bike made it before the expected date and was ready to ride. The shop they partnered with also helped me get started (which as a first-time bike rider was helpful).
Overall the bike is amazing, it arrived with a few nicks in the paint (which I didn't think was worth the time it would take to get a replacement), and the brakes keep making a screeching noise (but that might be a thing bikes do). Love the handle bars, and have gotten a few compliments on the bike!
Thanks so much for sharing Patrick. We're thrilled you are enjoying the bike and compliments are rolling in. -Ryan Zagata
First thing first, this is a very aesthetic bike and you're going to get a lot compliments on it. It's a solid frame road bike so make sure you know the terrain you're going to be using it on, no off-roading obviously. It's great on the roads and has a surprising amount of power.
My experience with this bike was not great to start though and I rolled unlucky when I originally got it, and had derailleur issues. Which was resolved by a visit to the partner shop and then later on a visit to a local shop. I need to give huge props to the customer care team especially Danielle, whose hard work and communication made what would normally be a rage inducing experience pleasant. I've been using it pretty much daily over the last few months, putting it through its paces to make sure the issue has been resolved. Now it's one of my favorite bikes I've ever owned, and was well worth the investment. I'd recommend this bike to just about anybody, although I might suggest looking into the internal gear options over the derailleur if possible.
Austin - thank you so much for taking the time to share such thorough feedback. While we understand we had a few hiccups, we truly appreciate you acknowledging the effort our team put in to make it right and we're floored to read your words suggesting that 'it's one of my favorite bikes I've ever owned.' -Ryan Zagata
It’s a lovely bike and lighter than expected. I enjoy the more upright position so much!
Thank you for sharing Shannon. We are thrilled that you're enjoying your new city bike. -Ryan Zagata
These handlebars look great but the bar end shifters I meant to install won't fit since the diameter of the holes are very small. A huge bummer but I guess I should have anticipated this issue.
Thanks Asaf. The bars are 25.4 at the clamp and 22.2 at the grip so any bar end shifter would need to fit that diameter. -Ryan Zagata