Last year, Ira Ryan’s booth had one of the best bikes at the show. The red commuter had gorgeous racks and detail work and a matching trailer, all decked out with so much matching red anodized Chris King stuff. It was awesome. We’ve also seen some very pretty hand cut lugs and more from him in the past, so we’re pretty excited to see what he’s got in store for 2013…
Bikerumor: What materials do you build with? Which is your favorite and why?
Ira: Steel is the most versatile and adaptable material for building bicycles period.
Bikerumor: What have you been working in since NAHBS last year?
Ira: Overall, the goal has been to evolve the business and try to build more bikes for more people to ride.
Bikerumor: Any killer custom bike builds?
Ira: Sorry no sneak peaks but it is going to be hottt!
Bikerumor: Did you see anything at NAHBS last year that’s inspired you?
Ira: Builder’s who not only build top notch bicycles but also have an impact on the cycling culture by sponsoring racing teams, builders who really ride bikes and also those builders who have built up successful, profitable businesses while still having time to have lives, families and hobbies.
Bikerumor: What are you bringing to the show this year that’ll have every other builder standing slack jawed in awe?
Ira: Pantone # 92095
Bikerumor: Scenario – A customer commissions you and one other builder to create the ultimate bicycle using the same parameters, same base material and same budget in an Iron Chef style competition. Who would you want to build against that would push you and elevate your game?
Ira: The bicycle world is too small to burden it with a bunch of competitive baggage but I see John Slawta and Richard Sachs as two builders who I aspire to be on par with.
