Reader’s Rig: Jessica’s Rivendell Sam Hillborne

Bikepacking.com recently showcased Jessica, founder of Tunitas Creative in San Francisco, and her Rivendell Sam Hillborne as their ‘Reader’s Rig’ of the week. The article highlights her custom-built, "one-of-a-kind Bay Area cruiser," which Jessica reportedly intends to ride indefinitely, reflecting a personal connection to her chosen steed rather than a pursuit of the latest carbon marvel.

This feature underscores a growing segment of the cycling community that prioritizes longevity, craftsmanship, and personal expression over performance metrics or fleeting trends. Rivendell Bicycle Works, known for its distinctive, classic-inspired designs and emphasis on comfortable, utilitarian riding, perfectly embodies this ethos. For many, a bicycle like Jessica's Sam Hillborne represents a deliberate rejection of the industry's relentless upgrade cycle, fostering a deeper, more sustainable relationship with their equipment.

In an era dominated by marginal gains and weight-weenie obsessions, it's refreshing to see a bike celebrated for its enduring appeal and the sheer joy it brings its rider. Perhaps some things are, indeed, built to last.