Andrew Davidge’s Journey from Metal Shop to Vintage Electric Bikes
In his formative years, when traditional schooling didn’t quite fit the bill, Andrew Davidge, the founder and CEO of Vintage Electric Bikes, found his calling in a high school metal shop class. Under the guidance of his mentor, Mr. Muntz, he discovered the joy of crafting with his hands. Armed with skills acquired from working with lathes, CNC machines, and welders, Andrew embarked on a journey that led to the creation of his first electric bike in his parents’ garage. Now, after 13 years of dedication and hard work, Vintage Electric Bikes is renowned for producing some of the most exquisite and fastest electric bikes in the United States.
Design Inspiration and Racing Roots
Vintage Electric Bikes, based in California, draws inspiration from early 20th-century board track racing motorcycles when designing their all-electric bicycles. Many of their employees share a racing background, including Andrew Davidge himself, who built his first electric bike while racing 125cc shifter karts in high school. What initially began as a pit bike project for personal use soon gained immense attention at races, changing the trajectory of his life and career. Andrew’s passion for design school took a back seat as the demand for his handcrafted bikes soared.
A Pivotal Moment at Pebble Beach
In an unexpected turn of events, Vintage Electric Bikes gained recognition and success at the prestigious Pebble Beach’s Gordon McCall’s Motorworks Revival. Andrew, along with a few friends, showcased their prototypes at an exclusive party, and the response was overwhelming. Within hours, they had received 40 fully paid orders. Andrew even had to hurriedly create a PayPal account from a bathroom to handle the sudden influx of payments. Thus, Vintage Electric Bikes was launched into the market.
The Need for Speed and Versatility
With a collective background in motorsports, the Vintage Electric Bikes team knew that speed was paramount. Their current bike lineup includes two types: throttle bikes and pedal assist bikes, both considered the fastest e-bikes in America.
Technology and Nostalgic Flair
Vintage Electric Bikes prides itself on using a direct-drive hub motor with minimal moving parts, allowing for regenerative braking. The pedal-assist sensors measure torque and assist pedaling, offering a versatile riding experience. Each model boasts a nostalgic flair that sets them apart from other electric bikes on the market, with a design inspired by the history of board track racers.
Reliability and Longevity
The company emphasizes creating durable products that stand the test of time. All new technology is designed to be backward compatible with older bikes. Additionally, Vintage Electric Bikes ensures that replacement parts and batteries are available, contrasting with cheaper e-bikes that may lack long-term support.
Ultimate Commuting Experience
For riders like Andrew Davidge, commuting on an e-bike is not just a mode of transport but a transformative experience. The bikes offer a unique blend of style, speed, and efficiency, making them an excellent choice for daily commutes and city life. They’re not just about getting from point A to point B but about enjoying the journey.
Diverse Bike Lineup
Vintage Electric Bikes offers a range of models, each catering to different preferences. From retro-styled cruisers to rugged off-road options, there’s a bike for every rider’s needs and style.
Unlocking Speed and Versatility
The bikes come with two modes: street mode, suitable for public roads without a license, and a “race mode” for private property use. Vintage Electric Bikes ensures flexibility for their customers.
Media Recognition and Pre-Owned Options
Vintage Electric Bikes has garnered attention from various media outlets, underlining their popularity and quality. Additionally, they offer certified pre-owned bikes that have undergone factory refurbishment, providing a budget-friendly option for enthusiasts.
Passion for Craftsmanship and Empowering Future Generations
Andrew Davidge’s journey from high school metal shop to the helm of Vintage Electric Bikes embodies the power of craftsmanship and passion. He envisions inspiring future generations to embrace hands-on skills and craftsmanship, ensuring a bright future for those who can build with their hands.
