Inside The Factory That Makes $25,000 Bikes

[@gcn]

Would you love a bike from Parlee? 😍 What did you think of Ollie's bike-crafting skills? 🎨 Let us know!

[@Choedron]

Nope. Not after Americans again elected an uneducated malignant narcissistic clown as President, which will be detrimental to us Europeans and especially to the people of Ukraine. It might be a nice bike. But I will boycott physical American products from now on. I know of several other people, who will do exactly the same. There are plenty of European products, out there, which are just as good or sometimes even better. I have lost all respect of the US - and I feel especially sorry for all the women, who will end up dying due to religious conservative men's total lack of understanding of women's reproductive health care. So I, as a woman, can sympathize with this. I know it will probably no mean a lot to a lot of men, since most men have little understanding of women's reproductive healthcare. But it means a lot to me, and I am outraged for how women, minorities and black people are being treated in the US: They went way too far. So, no thanks.

[@marcelsow5817]

Would love a fully custom fit handmade bike. But get Ollie away from the carbon or his wasteful carbon laying will bankrupt Parlee before I have saved up enough money to buy one.

[@curtisgoodwin8962]

I’m lucky enough to have purchased an Allied BC40 and decided they’ll be no more made in Asia bikes for me. Thanks for making this video Ollie - my Parlee piggy jar savings begins today!

[@DetroitJohnny]

I would LOVE a fully custom bike from Parlee. I'm just 1 winning powerball ticket away from an order. I thought Ollie did a pretty good job on his first try with all of us watching

[@JibbaJabber]

@@gcn Does a doofus say what?

[@makpho72]

I'm the service manager at Fit Werx 2 in Peabody just a town over from their Beverly HQ. Hands down, the best company we have a partnership with, atmo. As I like to say, "it's in the details" and Parlee accomplishes that finely. Also had the pleasure of knowing and befriending Bob, he will be missed. Thanks to the Ollie and the GCN crew for a great video. Cheers!

[@zygmuntthecacaokakistocrat6589]

So you've cornered the 1%ers market. Good for you. What about the other 99% of the poor, obese, drug-addicted population in your area? You're making their lives any better, are you?

[@leom5894]

I'm excited to pick my Ouray up from you soon

[@troydupe]

Hi Stephen! This was a cool video. Next time I'm back in Boston, I'll be sure to stop by Fit Werx! I still wear my Fit Werx kit occasionally :)

[@parlee-cycles]

We're proud to have such a great relationship with you guys!

[@makpho72]

@@troydupe certainly will be nice to see you 👌 Lots of changes @ FW2 and will be a pleasure to catch-up!

[@bx_cyclingchef]

This episode definitely enlightened me. I had no idea Parlee bikes existed and manufactured here in the US. Thank you, Ollie, for bringing this to light.

[@RoadRageRod]

Which means you never seem "Premium Rush" :O

[@smithandshortdogs]

@bx_cyclingchef given your name, you might enjoy "bike to bites"... a show about a cyclist exploring the country on a parlée looking for sumptuous comestibles. I had never heard of it until the host did a podcast with a rep from chris king.

[@bx_cyclingchef]

@RoadRageRod nope

[@parlee-cycles]

Is it time for a Z-Zero perhaps?

[@PaulBoudreau]

The Parlee crew are talented and good people. That came from the top. Bob was super smart and kind. Best to Isabell, John, Tom, Lyndall and the rest of the team who carry on. RIP, Bob.

[@parlee-cycles]

Thanks for the kind words, Paul.

[@RobAuchincloss]

I worked for bob in the summer of 2014 as an engineering intern and got to work on a few of the bikes at the time was one of the most fun and rewarding experiences i’ve ever had. thank you bob for all that you have done for the world of cycling. rest in peace.

[@parlee-cycles]

Thanks for the kind words, Rob. We'll never forget that last name.

[@michaelmechex]

It's very refreshing to see a factory tour that's not like 'moulded frames from Asia come in through this door and we paint them here'. Very interesting. I'm sure having full control over the whole manufacturing process gives them an ability to produce some unique bikes.

[@Afrikakorps68]

15k-25k $ bikes? This video shouldn't even be made.

[@anthonyguglielmino971]

@@Afrikakorps68why not, some people are able to afford bikes like these…… so if they can then good luck to them and I hope they enjoy the bike rides 👍

[@tjtennisicmroll2k]

@@Afrikakorps68 your comment shouldn't have been made

[@andresarregui3417]

@@tjtennisicmroll2k Said the first world preppie dentist

[@parlee-cycles]

Thanks Michael. We take pride in our work. We are constantly striving to design and build the very best we can.

[@garyhanks3622]

I bought my Parlee years ago. Everything Ollie said is absolutely true. For a bike of it's time, it's incredibly smooth. Alas, it's now confined to my trainer because I'm 78 and live at the top of a hill, therefore I now have an e-bike.

[@238949]

As always, Ollie's enthusiasm makes these videos, informative and enjoyable , love you 🥰🥰

[@gcn]

🫶

[@robertlara1272]

I have owned many high end road bikes ( S-Works, Cannondale Hi Mod, Calfee, Ridley). Hands down Parlee beat them all in regards to torsional stiffness while maintaining compliance. I use a large frame those qualities are hard to dial into that structure. They nailed it. I appreciate when they visit the shop I work in and the chance to speak to the people responsible for my numerous Parlee’s ( I went crazy for the 1 of 1 bike finishes). RIP Mr. Parlee.

[@parlee-cycles]

Thanks for riding Robert! We hope you're enjoying your 1 of 1.

[@blackjackpinoko]

TIME is pretty good

[@stevenfafel810]

My Parlee Chebacco has been far and away the best bike I have ever ridden. From local gravel rides to 100 mile gravel adventures, that bike has exceeded all expectation. I will no doubt be buying another Parlee in the future.

[@parlee-cycles]

Steven, we love to hear it! Here's to your future Parlee 👀

[@SuperCanonshooter]

Says a lot about a company and the owners that the employees have worked there for decades. That’s an incredible blessing most people will never know

[@OllieBridgewood]

agreed!

[@parlee-cycles]

We're lucky to have such a great team!

[@reinholdachleitner2069]

Awesome video at Parlee manufacturing,they are really open to the frame processing and design and Lyndall is an excellent person.Thanks GCN and Parlee.💯👌🏻🚴‍♂️

[@robbchastain3036]

Always nice to have GCN presenters on our side of the pond. Thanks, Ollie, for this factory tour. All it lacked was a 45-minute visit to the gift shop before the bus ferried you back to the hotel, something I experienced decades ago in Honolulu, all part of the fun with the tour guide even serenading us with Tiny Bubbles. 😀

[@davidnicholson6680]

I have a bike with a carbon/Ti custom frame from Seven, an even smaller brand also from Massachusetts. The fork on that bike is made by Parlee. Bespoke frames are special, they are made for you and meant to last. There's nothing questionable about the quality of materials or the quality of the manufacturing processes, everything is simply the best it can be. Owning a frame like this is a joy every time you ride it. If you treat the bike well, it will last your lifetime. Such a joy in today's disposable world.

[@parlee-cycles]

It might be time for a Parlee...to keep your Seven company of course.

[@SR-fm1ft]

GCN videos getting a lot better recently!

[@Charusel]

Didn't they go independent recently?

[@OllieBridgewood]

glad you feel that👍🏼

[@ewanmcc5277]

I had my Parlee Z1 custom built in June 2012, with help from the Peabody Fit Werx team (thanks Dean!) when the Di2 set-up was introduced to the market. Remarkable process, remarkable frame - 12 years on and it's still one of the best bikes I've been lucky to ride. Considering a RX7 to add to my Parlee 'stable'. I met Bob a couple of times too and was so sad to learn of his passing. Also was lucky to visit the Factory site - amazing team. Thankfully his legacy lives on! Thanks for this update GCN Crew - great job with this one.

[@parlee-cycles]

Thanks for riding. We hope you're enjoying your bikes!

[@chrisbaum7407]

Great Video about Parlee. Love the details you get from a smaller company that takes pride in their craftsmanship. Thanks Ollie for enlightening us all about this USA bike company. More trips to the USA GCN.

[@Jayneflakes]

That was a lovely film, well done Oli and the GCN team. I particularly liked the moment when Oli seemed to fade out of GCN presenter mode, into full bike tech nerd as he examined the tube he'd made. Lovely work as always.

[@parlee-cycles]

Our carbon fiber can have that effect on people 😉

[@motionstudio77]

Thanks for the tour Ollie, GCN, & Parlee, truly amazing products produce by Parlee...Hope the legacy keep growing stronger...

[@parlee-cycles]

We hope so too.

[@carlyuen4360]

i first rode a parlee in Hong Kong last year to climb the countless mountains there - having watched this video, i'm definitely flying back to ride the bike again!!!

[@parlee-cycles]

Maybe the time has come for you to own your own 👀😁

[@SvenKrevchenko]

I ride a 2020 Parlee Altum. Absolutely love it.

[@DavidParkes-g2r]

I’ve had a Parlee Z3 for 10 years and love it to bits. The ride quality is superb - smooth yet dynamic. Thanks for the video, I can now understand how and why these hand-crafted bikes are so special.

[@parlee-cycles]

What we learned with the Z1/Z2/Z3 has lead to what makes the Z-Zero so special!

[@patrickohara4160]

Olli is a gem! Great reporting and an interesting and entertaining "How it's Made". Keep this content coming.

[@MatthewMabborang]

Short and sweet, this is the most beautiful video that you guys have shared with us! Salute to the amazing people working on Parlee to create these beautiful carbon fiber frame bikes and to Doctor O for the wonderful and insightful presentation! 💜 This makes me want to do cycling even more until I get old and can’t ride anymore 🥺

[@parlee-cycles]

Matthew, thanks for the wonderful words! We appreciate it.

[@MatthewMabborang]

@ I hope that I’ll be able to see your beautiful work of bike frames and ride them personally! 🥺

[@kultyper]

Absolutely love my Parlee!

[@jeffreyb.1657]

Brilliant video - info and quality are tops! Thank you. Have a Parlee...here is the story: >20y ago got a Seven Odonata custom....amazing. Then got a lot of carbon bikes........ultimately with a Madone Gen 7. Thought I had the best... Finally, got an RZ7 by Parlee for Fondo's. Short version: best bike in the world. Smooth and faster than the top tier most aero madone...I was frankly shocked. Fewer watts to go 40kmh. Much nicer ride. Cool paint. Shop mechanic said it was the best made/quality he had ever done. It is the best bike you can buy. Period. End of story. All the bikes above have Hambini race BB's.... current Dura Ace....current wheels....the Parlee transfers power instantly, is 950 grams with hardware as a frame, descends as fast as the Madone gen 7 is as aero as far as I can tell...handles side wind better than all of them somehow...is far more comfortable than any of them even the Seven....and is not weird looking like the Madone seat cluster. The Pro evo bars, which are amazing, are a massive pain in the rear to install. Other than that, amazing bike. The company is amazing to deal with. If you want the best bike in the world. Really. This is it...and if you get an rz7 with normal parts it is no more costly than any other bike these days of this level.... Great video. Hope lots of people buy these as this is a special company making the best bikes in the world. Every idea in the rz7 is being copied by everyone else....ride is surreal.

[@larryt.atcycleitalia5786]

And you know this because you've ridden ALL of the other made-to-measure by artisan bikes in the world? I'm not saying Parlee bikes are not great but "..the best bike in the world. Really. This is it" says you're either an idiot or a shill.

[@gcn]

Hey thanks for sharing your experience and the positive comment

[@parlee-cycles]

Thanks Jeffrey. Happy to hear you enjoying your RZ7 so much. We think it's one of the best rides on the market too...but maybe we're biased 😄

[@3Max]

Thanks for this tour and sharing the factory with us, loved meeting the team and seeing their craft. RIP Bob Parlee

[@jeremynorth]

Wow not only was this interesting it was really moving. These frames are fabulous and built with a lot of love and care.

[@parlee-cycles]

We'd love to see you on a Parlee, Jeremy!

[@jeremynorth]

@@parlee-cycles Me too

[@jeffs5519]

Thanks for the look inside Parlee Ollie! I have a Chebacco gravel model, and even though it wasn’t built in Massachusetts it’s a wonderful bike that I love riding- even on the road. Light, quick, smooth and responsive.

[@parlee-cycles]

The Chebacco is a timeless classic!

[@markwade9936]

Great video. His instructor Lyndall obviously loves her job there. You can tell each person is a tightly woven layer of this successful frame.

[@bomba76]

Huge amount of love for Parlee. I bought one of their framesets in 2010 for way more money than I could justify, but it turned out to be one of the best things I ever spent money on. It was an absolute joy to ride and just put a smile on my face every time I took it out.

[@johnlieto8906]

Wonderful video Ollie, so great to get an inside view of folks who love what they do!

[@Dhungerf60]

I’ve ridden with two friends who own Parlee bikes and they are very proud of their bikes and feel very special to be riding them

[@gcn]

They found their correct bike

[@parlee-cycles]

Everything we do is to provide the best riding experience we can.

[@TodRaines]

I've ridden the same Parlee since 2012. I cannot ever imagine replacing it with anything else. I have owned many of the big brands, including a vastly over-hyped Italian (begins with P) piece and NOTHING comes close to the Parlee. I would never have spent this kind of money on myself. But, my wife surprised me for my birthday one year by setting up the deal to order the frameset with a local shop.

[@peters8504]

What is so much better about them vs an Italian bike ? Can you really feel the difference ?

[@larryt.atcycleitalia5786]

".. vastly over-hyped Italian (begins with P) piece " made in Asia, Sadly, hype (marketing) is key to making big $ Example #1 - SRAM. Long-live the little guys making their own stuff with passion and skill!!!

[@parlee-cycles]

We appreciate you Tod!

[@ChrisGuarraia]

Again, absolutely love these factory tours. And I was today years old to learn Parlee is American-made. Thanks for the great content! And well done, Dr. Ollie, on that top tube. It goes to show how difficult the process can be for hand made anything.

[@parlee-cycles]

Massachusetts based since 2000!

[@clintonshiells3095]

I really enjoyed this look into one of the great custom carbon frame brands. Many thanks, Ollie

[@skokel]

I love true craftmanship

[@paulhartman3118]

I’ve had a Parlee for 5 years now and still smile every time I get on it 😁

[@parlee-cycles]

We love to hear it!

[@jimmyl.bakerjr.7026]

I had no idea that Parlee was made right here in the US. Beautiful bikes and HAND MADE, now that's special.

[@grahambell9831]

Superb video Ollie & GCN. May Bob Parlee be at peace in cycling heaven 🙏 ✨️

[@parlee-cycles]

Thanks Graham. Bob has left behind one incredible legacy.

[@davetbassbos]

I hope these guys filmed some challenges on the Cambridge bike lanes they mentioned last week!

[@brettturnage533]

I do carbon fiber in the automotive market. I look to the bike world as I believe some of the most exciting innovations in the industry happen in the cycling world. I love watching these GCN in depth videos on the manufacturers. This one in particular was incredibly inspiring, and I especially love the fact that it’s made in America being that I want to keep my business in America as well.

[@parlee-cycles]

Thanks, Brett. Carbon is a spectacular material, the only material we've ever used since 2000!

[@brettturnage533]

@ thank you for your reply. And even though my initial comment said as much thanks for the inspiring story. I will carry it as I continue to build my own business and brand.

[@parlee-cycles]

@@brettturnage533 Good luck, Brett!

[@royunderwood7514]

Good work showing a great US bike company.

[@jpmangin]

Wouldn't give my Z-Zero RD up for anything. Had a chance to get a used one and didnt think twice. Pinnacle of craftsmanship . Lucky to own one❤ RIP Bob.

[@parlee-cycles]

The Z-Zero RD is the last bike you'll ever need. Enjoy!

[@권용대-b5v]

Great tour!! Thank you always for making us better understand our bikes and bike industry.

[@joraxani]

Hank is so nervous with the carbon! Priceless. Shows how challenging it is to make these.

[@OllieBridgewood]

🤦‍♂️

[@thehighlandhamster]

I've had my Parlee almost 10 years. By some margin the best bike I have ever owned and it does a brilliant job of smoothing out the bumps on our roads here in the Scottish Highlands.

[@edjack1993]

Still riding my Z5 from 2010. Fantastic bike.

[@WarHammerWH]

Love these kind of videos, and Ollie is perfect for it. Very well explained and detailed throughout.

[@LooseGooseFarm]

Brilliant free content GCN!! More of this team!

[@peterknight9873]

Have a few friends that have custom built Parlee frame…. They’re a fantastic frame…. Very highly rated and I can confirm would be a dream to own one

[@parlee-cycles]

Made to measure is something we take very seriously around here!

[@MTBryanH]

Love these in depth videos. Keep up the great work!!!

[@JRoyGreen]

I knew Parlee by reputation as being top-notch, but had no idea what goes into building a custom bike. Great video. Might have a new "dream bike."

[@parlee-cycles]

Yes, please!

[@parlee-cycles]

Thanks for stopping by, GCN! 🤜🤛

[@gcn]

😁

[@damu6678]

I've ridden their bikes and they definitely are masters of carbon layup. They're somehow really stiff in a spring with great kick but dampen the road vibrations. No idea how they do it

[@derickcastillo9083]

This was really cool! Thank you Ollie

[@iansingleton]

Great film guys. I love these films where you go visit factories. Although I think off the peg bikes, in general, cost too much, I do appreciate that when you're buying something bespoke from a company that has a history of excellence and takes prides over every single item it sells then the price becomes kind of irrelevant. I'd love to own a bike like that. Simply beautiful!

[@mommamooney]

Loved this! An Ollie “How They Make It” tour is always fun and informative

[@Hertog_von_Berkshire]

First discovered Parlee a few years ago when I met a lovely young lady (some 40 years my junior) riding one. Had to ask what it was as the decal was black on black and virtually invisible. Thanks Ollie for this great insight into the brand. I am now much better informed ... and want one!

[@brannmacfinnchad9056]

That's so freaking cool to see. Thanks for going there, Ollie. And yes, I'd love one.

[@chrisblanchard4938]

I live in Maine and had no idea Parlee existed let alone made beautiful bikes in Massachusetts. Great story

[@ChrisP978]

I live in the town next door and only discovered them a few years ago.

[@JeffreyWilliams-dr7qe]

Does Parlee build a frame classic and Beautiful enough to Warrant even a Worthwhile investment such as this. Thanks for all the Work and Imagination!

[@davidnicebike6115]

I've built and own several of these Parlee bikes, they are fantastic! The most expesive one I've build is over twice your highest value...it's a true work of art! David @ Nice Bike in CO

[@parlee-cycles]

Appreciate you guys!

[@davidnicebike6115]

@@parlee-cycles you all are the best, true bike witches and warlocks conjuring up the blackest of magic in those beautful carbon frames. Untouchable!

[@ianlaker9161]

Fabulous video. I love watching artisans at work. I will never own one but I can dream!

[@2wheelsrbest327]

Great video Ollie I definitely want one. I'm guessing Colnago use a similar process. Bob looked too young to leave us so early. Condolences to his family & team.

[@paulgrimshaw8334]

Nice to see stuff made in the Western world.

[@Gyvenotjas]

And only at a small fraction of your salary!

[@blackjackpinoko]

They just came out of bankruptcy

[@Zerotonin666]

This is an awesome video, even if you'll never be affording such a bike as a mere mortal.

[@bkmontgomery]

Love these “how it’s made” videos.

[@01FozzyS]

Heard of the name but never knew much about them. Beautiful bikes. RIP Bob.

[@BTcycle]

I love Ollie when he does bike factory tours.

[@jaredstrauss617]

I’ve got an RZ7. It weights more than a Tarmac or Factor for sure. But ride quality is great and it’s a unique bike. Price was it was actually cheaper than an SWorks Tarmac with Sram Red. I’m sure I’m giving up a few watts but I love supporting a small brand. When I have issues they are a phone call away. And they are super responsive/knowledgeable about the product.

[@parlee-cycles]

Hope you're enjoying the RZ7 Jared!

[@kimberlydelgado9795]

very nice video. the ending was sweet.

[@bicyclist2]

Sadly I'm not lucky enough to be able to afford one. But If I was, I would. I'm a big fan of "Made in USA". I ride an older LOOK KG361 and an aluminum Orbea that will have to do for now. Very cool! Thank you.

[@lux-wattage]

0:23 That’s right! I’d gladly pay double for a Parlee designed by none other than the legendary Dr. Bridgewood.

[@petersouthernboy6327]

Argonaut and Allied are also custom carbon bike manufacturers in the USA. Argonaut will also customize the carbon layup for each customer’s fit and use.

[@cooperswayadventures]

Absolutely fantastic. RIP Bob🚴‍♂️🚴‍♂️🚴‍♂️👍

[@barryneville9713]

Thanks Ollie, nice work on the frame there buddy, oh and hello from Phx

[@petersouthernboy6327]

I loved this - well done, GCN!

[@Chris-iv2ud]

Very nice, I want my next bike's component made in outside of Taiwan & China, currently got Enve wheel, the frame would be a Enve or BMC masterpiece, now Parlee is in my radar now.

[@derosa1989]

Over 100,000km on my 2009 Z-1 and still like new, 4 groups of components later.

[@parlee-cycles]

Impressive!!

[@cb6866]

Thanks Dr O , and crew . I live nearby and have always wanted one , my friend owns 2 !! Was your ride smoky ? We have had a lot of wildfires recently , safe travels , be well .

[@ronhigh8370]

I do own a parlee altumR, 2017 gray with red cables,BEAUTIFUL BIKE, BEAUTIFUL RIDE!!

[@parlee-cycles]

One of the most classic colorways!

[@LastLamplighter]

Great story Ollie, thanks.

[@staff0flag]

Fascinating.

[@gosbusta]

Flaming cool brand. Thanks for sharing this.

[@SRK5227]

Really nice segment.

[@jamesdubben3687]

Nice, that you have that connection

[@CatManDoSocial]

Loved this. Well done.

[@deputyfk]

Great video of a wonderful company and product from the looks of it. Now I just have to find a good used one!

[@collinsngetich3588]

Very much appreciative of the camera angle at 14:15

[@parlee-cycles]

Ollie is truly focused.

[@marcuspartridge11]

We (the U.S.) need more of this here...let's build more bikes! Make America bike again! 😅

[@Alex.R.Feyn.]

That’s super cool you got to meet Cody! So, Ollie... did you manage to walk out of the factory without ordering a custom-painted bike?

[@larryt.atcycleitalia5786]

The question is how much GCN got paid for this advertorial? Can any bike maker buy one?

[@davidsantos5516]

Wow!! Didn't know that they produce in Portugal!?

[@dodojanik]

Stunning!

[@DarynRod]

Thank you.

[@rg807]

Excellent video.

[@johnstrac]

Lovely work once again Ollie, another winner. How much did you cost Parlee with the lay ups ?

[@theantichrome9842]

Very cool video. Interesting to contrast this with a video of Allied frames being made.

[@DMW2000]

Rest in peace, Bob.

[@taipeiheat]

big like, thank you