But if I weren’t nervous about what we’re doing, there would be no point in doing it.” Ironically, twenty years ago, at the height of the outsourcing craze, Kent’s current building was occupied by MTD, an Ohio-based kent bike riding-lawn-mower operation that consolidated back to Ohio, shuttering the Manning plant and losing 800 workers. MTD also owned the Columbia Bicycle Company of Westfield, Mass., shuttered about 30 years ago.
Kent bikes are a good choice for riders who are looking for a basic, reliable, and affordable bike for casual use. Although the brand has tried to build bikes according to market demand, so far, I couldn’t find any model as super and great as suitable for my professional mountain biking or road racing. Their mountain bikes are sturdy and robust, perfect for beginners and hobby riders, and give affordable models to all people.
“The prices there were just so low it made no economic sense to continue, so in 1991 we stopped production, sold off the equipment, shut the doors,” Kamler recalls. “We were never, ever going to manufacture again in the U.S. That was 23 years ago, our very final decision.”And then along came… Walmart. What Kamler is doing in bicycle manufacturing exactly parallels what transplant automotive producers engineered in the 70s and 80s. Kent Bicycles made headlines with its plans to produce 500,000 bikes annually in its new South Carolina factory in Manning.
These bikes offer excellent traction, stability, and versatility, and are well-suited for riders who want to challenge themselves and push their limits. Kent Fat bikes are designed for riders who want to explore rough terrain, such as snow, sand, or mud. These kent bicycles bikes feature oversized tires that provide excellent traction and stability, allowing riders to tackle difficult terrain with ease. They also typically have wide handlebars and low gearing, which helps to provide a comfortable and efficient riding position.
I may receive a commission if you buy products using my links. When looking for low-priced stuffed, you have to compromise the lasting feature. You can find the tiniest baby-to-teen and adult bikes here. Kent bikes also did some experiments with its manufacturing units. In 1990, they outsourced their bike-making to other countries with cheaper labor forces. For more than 100 years, Kent bikes maintained its reputation and remained the ownership of one family.
Before making a purchase, it would be best if you research different models and go through different Kent bike reviews. This can help you find the best deal and ensure that you are making the right choice. However, it would probably be a better idea to switch into more advanced bike models if you want more heavy-duty performance out of your bike. Another reason Kent bikes are still relevant today is their superior versatility. No matter what types of biking you’re into, Kent has a model for that. Every type of Kent bike has some activity-specific features to offer.
“They connected with Governor Haley, and a few hours later she called me.” Even though his preferred location had none, the Governor guaranteed that Kent’s energy needs, as well as other physical and training requirements, would be filled. My friend Arnold Kamler, Chairman and CEO of Kent International,Inc., a high-volume, mass-market bike supplier to Walmart, Toy’s R Us, Target and other retailers, sees what lies ahead. Kamler is a third-generation bike man (his son Scott is generation four) whose grandfather Avram emigrated from Poland 100 years ago, landing on New York City’s the Lower East Side not far from the Manhattan Bridge. Tell you what, each tour was over a thousand miles long and it wouldn’t have been possible if I hadn’t studied bike mechanics.
The wheel labeling is an important change for the company as it considers whether to enter the private label wheel building business. However, if you will ask me about Kent bikes, my opinion is mixed. Although it is a good brand, being a professional mountain biker, I felt the need for some improvements in Kent bikes.
Your bike frame & fork are protected under our Lifetime Warranty policy. Bicycle labeling has a storied history in the U.S., with bikes being called “Made in USA” while assembled with Asia-sourced components. Or frames imported from China and painted in the U.S. being labeled “Made in USA.” Kamler was unsure if the South Carolina-assembled bikes would qualify for the new label but applied anyway. Maybe I am feeling it because I have driven the comfiest professional bikes.
Kent has a range of mountain bikes available in their arsenal. They are more like entry level MTBs designed to introduce the rider into the world of MTB. These bikes are perfect for beginners and occasional riders. Not only Kent bikes are relatively cheaper than other bike models, but they also provide convenience. From quick assembly to replaceable parts and accessories, this brand has taken all the necessary steps to ensure that riders can get maximum value out of their Kent bike. The kits and gears you find in Kent bikes are decent to drive in the comfort of everyone.