The Cielo Story
Ask cyclists worldwide how the Chris King got their start and they would likely answer it was making the components that set industry standards, like their headsets. It wasn’t components though, it was bike frames under the name Cielo Cycles. The bicycles were named for a narrow road through the Santa Ynez Mountains called Camino Cielo, or “Sky’s Pathway” that helped to inspire Chris King to develop his passion for the perfect ride and the perfect bike.
In the years since, the company has moved to Portland, Oregon, and the story of Cielo bicycles was lost. Mostly because of the exceptional work Chris King and his employees were doing in other areas. It was 1982 that the last frames were produced and not again until 2008 did they re-emerge, when a stainless steel Cielo teased the crowds at the North American Handmade Bicycle Show.
Fast forward to Interbike Dirt Demo 2009 when we stumbled past the Cielo/Chris King booth. In front of our eyes were 3 bikes that we knew we must have. The Sportif road, 29′er mountain and cyclocross. Luckily for us that day, our friend Chris Distefano had taken a job with Chris King, and even luckier for us, Chris wanted to share Cielo Bicycles through Mellow Johnny’s.
In the months that passed the planning has progressed and Mellow Johnny’s has placed their 2010 order. In doing so we’ve become only the 2nd dealer in the United States chosen to carry the brand. In the next few months we’ll have feature articles coming on both the 29 ‘er and Cross model. Today our focus is the Sportif, the first release from Cielo. We had the pleasure of getting our hands on a Sportif demo for a few months for some quality miles.
Described by Cielo as “Classically Modern” the Cielo Sportif is a bike designed with a geometry and purpose that will allow your sensibilities to co-exist with your more spirited moments. Riding the bike evokes a big smile. From long ride dirt road epics, to trips around town, the Sportif was one bike that can fill many roles. True to Cielo’s claims the bike was responsive and stable. The road feel that steel tubes deliver helps you remember great bikes of your past.
Built in 14 sizes from 49-62 cm, and 4 sloping sizes, the Sportif eliminates the need for custom while delivering the precision and finish capabilities that surpass that of many of the finest names on the market. The Tig welded True Temper OX Platinum frame and fork carry precision in-house made pieces such as custom made fork crown, dropouts, and seat stay caps. In the name of versatility the Sportif is designed to accept 57mm reach calipers, wider tires, and can be ordered with eyelets at your choosing.
Come in and take a look at the Sportif frames, so that you too can experience the Cielo. Available as frame and fork ($1795), or with factory installed headset and bottom brackets. Of course, a classic beauty wouldn’t be complete without the perfect set of wheels too, so you can also order with Chris King hubs or wheels as well.
Drop a line to know more, or come into the shop.
