We got to know Rubén Durán from Rizzo Cycles long ago, when our paths crossed back in the fixed-gear days. Since then, he got into frame building just out of curiosity, to disconnect from his job as a sound technician. He also discovered that his great-great-grandfather was a blacksmith so his passion for craftsmanship may have been justified not only by his love for bikes but the profession of his ancestors too.
After the learning phase, he produced steel frames for himself and his cycling friends, so the only way to continue practicing his recently acquired skill was to create a brand so that his products could find an owner.
Over the last few years, Rubén has risen as one of the most renowned frame builders, and his frames are produced in Madrid and sold around the world. Together with the components from the brands he is aligned with, Rizzo Cycles frames are often displayed in the most relevant handmade bike shows like Bespoked and related events like GiRodeo.
The following video has been produced by HUNT Wheels with the aim of inspiring cyclists to appreciate the craftsmanship behind handmade bikes like those from Rizzo Cycles. It focuses on the passion and dedication of Rubén as a frame builder, and provides an intimate look at his unique techniques and the particularities of his frames.
It is the first episode of the Frame by Frame series, which premiered last Friday, October 18th, at Bespoked Dresden. The attendees of the hand-made bike show could get to know Rubén and Rizzo Cycles through this video before meeting him face to face, as he was in Germany with three bikes on display. The rest of the series will be rolled out throughout the remainder of 2024 into 2025, with more interesting and varied stories to showcase.