Waterford Precision Cycles

Waterford Precision Cycles was a small bicycle manufacturer based in Waterford, Wisconsin.[1] Waterford produced high-end, custom, hand-built, steel-frame bicycles, particularly road, criterium, stage, track, and cyclocross racing bicycles, that ranged in price from about $2,500 to $8,500. Waterford built both TIG welded and lugged steel frames to order, and specialized in custom and unique bicycle frames.

The company was operated by Richard Schwinn,[1] formerly of Schwinn Bicycle Company, and business partner Marc Muller. Schwinn (great-grandson of Ignaz Schwinn, who founded Schwinn Co. in 1896) was vice president of production for Schwinn Co., and Muller worked for Schwinn as a designer of the company's hand-crafted Paramount racing bikes.

Waterford Precision Cycles and Gunnar Cycles ceased operations in June 2023 due to the upcoming retirement of owner Richard Schwinn and several other employees.[1]

Gunnar

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The company also manufactured Gunnar Cycles,[1] which were steel-alloy, TIG welded bicycle frames and forks including off-road, touring, racing and recreational bicycles, that started at roughly $1500 for a frame and fork combination. Unlike a custom Waterford frame, they did not offer custom sizing which helped keep the price lower.

Others

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In addition, Waterford manufactured frames for Rivendell Bicycle Works, Salsa Cycles, Milwaukee Bicycle Co. and Shinola Detroit as well as several other small specialty bicycle companies.[1]

References

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  1. ^ a b c d e Winzenburg, Lucas (10 May 2023). "Waterford and Gunnar Are Closing Their Doors". BikePacking.com. Archived from the original on 11 May 2023. Retrieved 11 May 2023.
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