RICHMOND, Calif. (BRAIN) — Noted framebuilder Ed Litton died on Dec. 16 following a bike accident near his shop two weeks earlier.
Litton built his first bikes while working at the original REI Co-op in Berkeley. He shared a framebuilding shop with Albert Eisentraut and helped people like Joe Breeze, Gary Fisher and Tom Ritchey build the first mountain bikes. For decades he built, finished, repaired and restored many bikes for individuals and for brands including Bianchi. He also finished frames for builders and brands like Ron Cooper, Bruce Gordon and Rivendell and did prototype paint schemes for Marin and Public bikes.
"His obsession with perfection and his attention to detail are unmatched in the industry," supporters said in the crowdfunding campaign. "He didn't do this work for the money, or for the glory, but for the pure love of cycling. Ed's pride in his work, dedication to his craft, and humbleness are rare and treasured by all who know him."
Friends and supporters had set up a crowdfunding campaign to support his medical expenses; that campaign is now dedicated to supporting the Litton family, including his wife and two children. The campaign has raised just over $100,000, with a goal of $125,000. More information on GoFundMe.
