Detroit Bikes expands line with second model

DETROIT, Mich. (BRAIN) — In order to offer a better fit for smaller riders, American bike manufacturer Detroit Bikes has announced it will begin production on a new frame style, the B-Type, early next week.

With a step-through design and shorter seat tube, the B-Type has all the same features of the company’s flagship model, the one-size-fits-most A-Type, which was launched last fall.

“The B-type is basically the A-Type with a step-through frame to allow a better fit for smaller people,” said Zak Pashak, Detroit Bikes’ founder. “We shortened the seat tube as well for a lower seat adjustment.”

With a goal of offering a simple, affordable bike made in the U.S., Detroit Bikes initially produced just one model in one size, the A-Type, designed to fit a range of riders from 5-foot-3 to 6-foot-3. Producing only one model helped the manufacturer to keep costs down and concentrate its efforts during its first few months in operation.

But Pashak said that because the new B-Type frame has the same geometry and build as the A-Type, adding a second model was very feasible. “It meant just a few small changes, which were no problem to get set up for,” he said.

Around 30 bikes are being built each week in Detroit Bikes’ 50,000-square-foot factory in west Detroit, with capacity to build at least 500 a week. Detroit Bikes’ frames are built with chromoly steel sourced in the U.S. and are hand-welded and painted in-house. Every bike is equipped with fenders and a custom-made rear rack featuring the Detroit Bikes logo. Additional braze-ons allow riders to further customize the bike.

Both the A-Type and B-Type are built with a Shimano Nexus internal three-speed hub, front hand brake and a rear foot brake. An adjustable quill stem allows the rider to dial in the fit. The A-Type is available in black powder coat, and the B-Type frame will be finished with a white powder coat and black accents. Both models retail for $699.

BTI distributes Detroit Bikes, and the bikes are also available dealer direct. The brand has more than 45 dealers in the U.S., Canada and Switzerland, and Pashak said both models would also be available at select Performance Bicycle stores by early summer.