August 22nd, 2025 marked the third time the MADE Bike Show has blessed Portland, Oregon (and the world) with its presence. Hosting an array of companies from immerging custom bicycle fabricators like Slow Southern Steel Fab (or ‘SSS’ for short), or Woodpecker Cycle Co to industry giants like Paul Components or Brooks England Limited.

This was my first time attempting to cover this show and the events/social rides before and after. Expect more content coming soon like articles on bikes I saw throughout the weekend, all of the social events I took part in and LOTS more. I also have a least two to three YouTube videos as well I will be uploading by the weekend of August 30th!

Full Interview!

Individual Interviews!

Woodpecker Cycle Co:

With less than a week of preparation Darren drove down from Washington with his daughter to show off what Woodpecker Cycle Co is about! With a focus on bikes made for dirt he showcased a beautiful full suspension bike, a gravel bike with adjustable chain stays and a fully custom built 24″ mountain bike for his daughter.

Slow Southern Steel Fab (SSS):

On top of a bike that won second place via People’s Choice Award AND is being borrowed to be showcased on Bikepacking.com Jesse brought two bikes that each placed first in their own respective races: Doom 2025 and the Tour Divide 2025 (single speed). For less than five years in the industry Slow Southern Steel Fab is making huge strides!

Brûlé Bicycles:

In my opinion one of the more interesting assortments of bikes brought to MADE this year! Every inch of the tall bike showcased in the interview was dripping with custom work. Not to gas him up too much but in my opinion Julian is a great example of the benefits of going to a custom bicycle shop when you want something non-typical!

Donkelope Bikes:

Did not have the chance to speak with Greg as long as others but when I heard Saturday evening during the Simworks Ramen Ride about a super unique build used to tow a BMX bike I had to see it! It most likely seems silly or even stupid to some but to the people who have tried to get anywhere on a BMX bike you know how badly your back and knees wish you had extra gears and different geometry.

So Low Bikes:

So Low Bikes are a unique concept in the fact that no other brand at MADE is doing a lowered bottom bracket and such out of the box frame designs! There is something super appealing and eye grabbing about the designs choices Joel makes with his frames. Most fit the discipline of MTB bikes but he also had a flow track bike as well closer resembling a BMX bike while still maintaining the signature lowered bottom bracket.

Haley Cycles:

Haley Cycles at first glance seems like your average run of the mill high end road/gravel bike, upon further inspection you will find that there is a level of craftsmanship that reminds you why they are at MADE Bike Show. Titanium, which Haley Cycles specializes in is something I hold in high regards because in my opinion it is the pinnacle of frame materials. Each bike displayed at MADE showed their attention to detail and want to standout among the crowd!

SaltAir Cycles:

Walking by I HAD to stop at SaltAir Cycles and chat with Steve about his bike and his love for Paul’s direct mount center pull brake. Taken from dream to reality by Matt Nelson, the bike geometry and style is largely inspired by cyclocross bikes but has a few accents that really set it apart (hence why I stopped). Check it out in the interview!

Final Thoughts!

I could honestly spend hours talking in circles about how MADE Bike Show 2025 made me feel. So many inspiring people chasing after their dreams while also actively supporting one another and working towards the collective goal of making the cycling industry a more inclusive, creative, and fun space! Last but certainly not least a HUGE shout out to all the volunteers that worked at the wristband/entrance, the parking lot or anywhere else, it was hotter than hell this weekend and kudos for suffering a bit for the enjoyment of others.

Thanks a million times over to everyone who took the time out of their very busy weekend to chat with me and be put on the spot and present who you are and what you’re about. My goal is to be able to use this website (and related social media accounts) as a portfolio to grow my career. I really appreciate everyone that has taken the time to read this, doing so helps more than you could imagine!