Five Questions with Adam & Nicholas of Sklar Bikes

A Quick Visit With Sklar Bikes

Straightforward, timeless, and thoughtful are just a few of the words that describe Sklar Bikes, one of San Francisco’s newest bike outfitters. We recently pedaled over to Sklar HQ with our latest release, the Merino Riding Shirts, to talk shop, share some laughs about life in SF, and enjoy a sando in the park. Read on for a quick interview with Adam and his friend & colleague Nicholas.

What surprised you the most about moving to San Francisco?

Adam: It shouldn’t have been a surprise, but since moving to San Francisco, I practically do not drive anymore. There is great bicycle infrastructure here, the drivers are bike-aware, and there is a tremendous amount of recreational riding right out the door. Not driving is one of my favorite things about this place and probably the most life-changing part of the move.

Nicholas: The bike community in SF is buzzing right now, largely thanks to the foundational work of community-minded shops, publications, small brands like Ornot, and group rides. The scene here feels stronger, more diverse, and more full of life than ever.

What's a favorite ride / route so far?

Adam: It’s hard to pick just one. The route I’ve done the most is crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, climbing up Mount Tam to Bolinas Ridge, and then working my way back to the Larkspur Ferry. You get a lot of different riding, from some paved road to the drier Railroad Grade climb to the prehistoric-feeling redwoods and ferns of Bo Ridge. It is such a beautiful and fun ride on a great variety of terrain. And the views!

Nicholas: I’ve been living in Sonoma County for the past 15 years, so riding within the city is incredibly fun. My weekly commute from the SMART Train to the Larkspur Ferry and riding from the Ferry Building to Sklar HQ in the Mission is full of unique visions of SF right now, and I love the energy of a proper city.

What's your go-to lunch spot?

Adam: The new Sklar Bikes HQ in the Mission District is close to a ton of fantastic food options, but my favorite lunch spot is closer to Ornot. Cafe Bunn Mi is my go-to spot after the Tuesday morning Ornot ride, or when you get back over the bridge super hungry from a big ride in Marin. I’d highly recommend the lemongrass tofu sando.

Nicholas: La Torta Gorda has a lovely sunny back patio and a very sweet staff, and it’s only a short ride from our warehouse.

You lived in Montana—how does Merino fit into your wardrobe now that you're in SF?

Adam: I have ridden exclusively in Merino t-shirts for the last decade, so I was excited to see my favorite bike clothing brand come out with a Merino tee! It really is the perfect material for doing outdoor activities. It keeps you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot, and in SF, it is all of those things simultaneously, so it has continued to be my go-to material. I love my Ornot Merino Riding Shirt :)

Nicholas: I’ve lived in San Francisco or the North Bay for most of my life, and I think Merino wool is the best choice for apparel I can wear daily, whether riding hard or commuting by bike. It’s my first choice for cycling shirts. I’ve tried a bunch of Merino tees from many bike apparel brands, and I think Ornot’s Riding Shirt is up there with the best of them.

Any upcoming projects or plans you're excited about?

Adam: There are so many exciting projects at Sklar right now. Our latest frameset, the Performance Basket Jammer (PBJ), is landing in about a month after years of development. I'm excited to get those out into the world. We also have more of our Titanium SuperSomething gravel bikes on the way and some updates to the steel version, too. Plenty to keep us busy!

Nicholas: I’ve been working on new merch designs for Sklar, including hats and socks. Also, Adam and I are traveling to Japan in September to visit our friends at Circles and SimWorks . I’m mega excited about that trip!