Kole Cycles

Bence, an adventurer from Hungary, is passionate about vintage 26-inch MTBs, which he sees as perfect companions for exploring nature. With a minimalist philosophy and a free spirit, he transforms retro bikes like his Univega into ideal machines for authentic journeys. His love for DIY and reviving forgotten standards aligns with his passion for the outdoors, making him a symbol of sustainability and creativity. In the interview, he shares how the simplicity of his choices reflects his desire to live closer to nature and away from conventions.

Eric aka Monkey On 2Wheels, a passionate cyclist and adventurer, grew up in a small German village where cycling symbolized freedom. Inspired by an article about crossing the Alps, he embarked on his first bike trip, sparking a lifelong love for exploration. His trusted companion is a 1989 Kuwahara Cheetah, a steel-framed bike he restored and customized, embodying reliability and self-expression. Through his travels, Eric has embraced the philosophy of resilience, connection, and the simple joys of life on two wheels.

A few years ago, I bought an old Bottecchia Sunkiss for €20 from a guy who was clearing out a yard full of junk (ravaldoni, as we say in Bologna). I didn’t know exactly what to do with it, but it was the only 26-inch bike in my size that I had ever come across, so I decided to try transforming it into a gravel bike to experiment with riding off-road.