Tennessee-based Litespeed Bicycles has been hand-crafting titanium frames of all kinds for decades. The brand recently introduced a new model to its lineup, known as the Rumpus. Unlike most of its other bikes, however, the Rumpus does not have pedals: this is a titanium balance bike built for the smallest, well-heeled riders to learn to ride in style. Of course, this isn’t the first high-end balance bike we’ve seen. Anyone remember the Specialized Hotwalk Carbon?
Rumpus Details
The Rumpus is a balance bike, so there isn’t really a lot to it, but here’s what we know. The frame uses aerospace-grade titanium tubing and is welded by hand by Litespeed’s experts in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The titanium frame is paired with a titanium handlebar and carbon fork, and the complete build reportedly weighs just 7 pounds (3.1 kg), making it “light enough for a 2-year-old to lift.”
It comes with a custom anodized head badge and logos in natural gold, along with classy-looking tan grips and saddle. It also comes with a bespoke titanium stand, so you can show it off and, more importantly, keep it from lying on the ground all the time. Additionally, when purchasing, you can add a message of up to 18 characters to be anodized on the chainstay.
Each Rumpus is made to order, and the lead time is 2-3 weeks. The bike arrives fully assembled, and the only adjustment needed is to the saddle height. Then your little shredder can stride off into the sunset.
Litespeed made the Rumpus to last a lifetime, and they back it up with a lifetime warranty. So, even though your little one will outgrow it in no time, it’ll be ready when their kids learn to ride.
Pricing and Availability
If you read the headline, then you already know the Rumpus retails for $1,000 — actually just $999.99. With a price like that, it certainly won’t be for everyone, but we imagine there are some titanium aficionados out there who will be starting ‘em young.
The Rumpus is available now and, again, made to order with a 2-3 week lead time. Head to the Litespeed website to check it out or place your order.