Bicycle Maker

Hi Jeff, how did you learn your profession? (Building bicycles)

I learned the craft of making bikes at a school in Ashland, Oregon, United Bike Institute,  there was a 2 1/2 week course that taught you how to build a frame like this [pointing to bike]. They taught you how to do the blueprint and the frame and all that stuff.  When I came back we found a local place that had used equipment, milling stuff where we would mill the tube. Then found a place with welding equipment. I’m at the point now where I can make frames without worrying I’ll blow a hole in the tubes.

How long have you lived in Milton?

I grew up in Milton. I used to live on the other side of town. I’ve never lived anywhere else.

What do you like about it?

It’s a pretty friendly community. It’s not as uptight as some of the other towns. There’s a lot of easy access to bike riding too — lots of bike lanes now.  Having grown up here, I know a lot of people here. I don’t think I would want to live anywhere else.

What is your biggest dream?

I’d say right now the biggest dream I have is to keep building this brand up and get to the point where I can advertise the product. I want to build it up to the point where a lot of other local companies have had success.

What does the phrase “I am an American” mean to you?

I’d like to think that it would mean having the opportunity to do what I’m doing: living in a society where you can go out and do your own thing, get a fair shake and see where it goes. That’s how I look at it.