In the spring of 2024, Kole was born, a project crafted with a handmade soul to complement the Save The Rat Bike community, embodying its raw, urban, and adventurous spirit. Kole emerges from a desire to tell the stories of inspiring individuals and to foster collaborations with artisans to create something unique and limited. Kole is a collector of all these elements.
Alongside me is Gabriele Ardito, a talented frame builder and friend, who works closely with me. For over a year now, I’ve also been collaborating with Edwan, a like-minded adventurer, as well as Daniel and Dima from Ukraine, masters at crafting racks and bags. In addition, there will be illustrators and artists whom I’ll introduce along the way. Together, we are venturing into new creative horizons.
My goal is to share my thoughts, experiences, and everything I’ve learned throughout my journey, with the understanding that the path of learning never truly ends. I hope to inspire reflection on the importance of history and traditions, emphasizing that market innovations aren’t the only way to fully enjoy sports, adventure, and fun. There is immense value in things that carry the marks of time.
“Old” and “worn” bicycles possess a unique magic, capable of telling stories from a past that hasn’t been lost but lives on in every scratch, every dent. These are objects that, with their patina and signs of use, bear witness to an era when quality, attention to detail, and a passion for craftsmanship were paramount.
When an object is handmade, it carries a value that goes far beyond mere function; it encapsulates the love, dedication, and skill of the artisan who created it. For this reason, it has a soul that makes it truly special.