Rivendell Sam Hillborne - Does it make sense in 2020?

[kymcopyriot]

Russ: a Croc wearing bicycle philosopher who lies awake at night thinking of handlebar options.

[robbikunkle]

Just saying, if so many people are deciding that rim brakes and steel frames are antiquated and backwards, I'd be happy to help them dispose of such obsolete artifacts.

[michaelcinibulk]

I always wanted a Rivendell and was looking for light touring bike similar to the A. Homer Hilsen or Atlantis, but more affordable. So, when the Sam Hillborne came out in 2009 as a more affordable version of the Hilsen (a country bike) I bought it. I used it for my Pacific Coast tour carrying 2 rear panniers and a rando bag (~35 lbs of gear) and it was perfect. The best part is that it rides just as well unloaded, although all of my riding has been on paved roads with 700C x 35-38 mm tires and fenders. So, yes, Russ it makes a great touring bike.

[andrew_yeah]

An elegant weapon, for a more civilized age.

[rugbyrob]

Stepping off the new new new treadmill and onto the “this is a really nice bike” lane was the best bike decision I have made. Great bike for good times.

[astro]

It is a beautiful bike. Grant Peterson's book had a profound influence on my cycling. I only ride steel bikes and I only use flat pedals.

[cprtp]

I'm still riding an early 80's Ritchie Ascent mountain bike, 26" wheels, motor home length chain stays, triple chain rings, only 6 speed cassette, full Deore XT, etc.. I stopped logging mileage after I retired 15 years ago, but I had over 80, 000 trouble free kms logged at that point, with just the usual maintenance, chains, cogs, brake pads, tires being required.The bike is still going strong, super comfortable for a 73 year old curmudgeon like me. I had nice bikes, such as a custom built Marinoni and a Velo Orange Campeur, but with advancing age and deteriorating joints I'm down to the Ritchey and a Giant hard tail. Modern bikes impress me not a bit, and I'm happy with a simple bike that rides great (for my needs anyway) and can be fixed quickly and easily without a shop load of specialized tools. These are the kind of bikes I believe the majority of people need, but, each to his own.

[fordtimelord]

My son has a Riv Joe Appaloosa. We went on tour around Lake Michigan with him snd my nephews. We swapped bikes often. Everyone wanted to ride the Appaloosa, including me. That was 3 years ago. I am jealous of that bicycle.

[tomverderber]

Seeing this bike brought me back to a kinder & gentler era. Non-intimidating. One of quality, simplicity and class. Great review.

[Tomcat]

3 years, and I still love this bike! Much appreciation for showing this one to us! Hope you both are doing well.

[jirdesteva]

In the year 2020 what actually makes sense is "SIMPLICITY" this is a crazy year. Reliable transportation that isn't difficult to work on or maintain.

[serendipitous]

Riding an old Bridgestone MB-3 converted for commuting. Love it and built with Grant's philosophy for which I am grateful.

[somafabrications]

“Wild West Bars” I smell a new way to market our townie bars. 🤠

[jameshuggins]

I've been wanting to say thank you for your YouTube channel and website. I'm just returning to cycling after a multi year hiatus been working alot. Most of the cycling in my area is geared towards the super serious mountain bikes or roadies doing century's. I love the concept of party pace and the supple life! I've never raced and at this point in life I'm not likely to start. I never heard of Rivendell until this channel along with a bunch of other cycling companies you recommend but I love the old style meets newer technologies that it represents. Thanks again and party on!

[rcireland]

It's not crazy at all. It seems to me we're getting further away from what makes a bike such a wonderful machine. Elegantly simple and efficient.

[cosinus_square]

Damn right, finally someone understands that stiffness and compliance cannot be used in the same sentence. Good on ya laddie.

[littlepintopower]

If there ever was a bike that encapsulated the supple life, the Riv is it. And easy on the eyes to boot!

[greggr]

A Rivendell bike is an investment, built to last. Over time it will likely be the bike you ride most often. Quality *never* goes out of style. Love this review 👍🏻. PS, those Montana trails look awesome.

[Greggsvlog]

Yes yes more just like this. I would love to see a “Gus” all decked out in tour mode with rack, paneers, frame bag and handel bar bike.

[gradywright]

I think you nailed the nailed the FEEL of a Rivendell. I’m a new and first time Rivendell owner and I agree The simplicity of components and rim brakes just feels good in a way that I can’t explain. It’s JUST a bike and it is amazing.