2025 Atlantis pre-sale

[Kat]

Just days now until the 2025 Atlantis sale! Who's planning on getting one? What colour? I'm interested in hearing people's thoughts on the Sergio green - I do feel much of the appeal of the Atlantis is that gorgeous blue. Interested to hear people's plans.

Thanks,

Kathryn

[Doug H.]

Hi Kat,

I agree that the original Atlantis color is classic and to my eyes just suits the bike. But, I really like the Sergio Green which would make it a tough choice for me! I have always been a fan of shades of green anyway including the Lime Olive green that Riv has used. I wonder if the Atlantis bikes will sell out and/or sell quickly during the presale? It is always fun to watch but even more fun to participate.

Doug

[der_amerikanische_freund]

I am planning on getting one in Atlantis classic color. I was kind of disappointed it is being offered in a color other than the classic Atlantis blue. I think that was part of its appeal, the original (albeit very different to the original model) bike in the Riv line-up that was only offered in one color, true to its principles blah blah blah. Also with Sergio green also being the color of the Appaloosa, and those two bikes being so similar, I would even be tempted to merge them, effectively discontinuing one of the two, and offer more intermediate sizes of the resulting "Appa-lantis".

Another thing I am not too enthused about this year's model is the pump peg in the seat stays. I do prefer the less conspicuous pin in the head tube underneath the top tube. I think that if you are not planning on carrying a large pump in the seat stay (either because you have a mini pump or because you large pump lives in a frame bag), the peg itself is a bit of an eyesore that ruins the straight line simplicity of the seat stays and rear triangle.

[Doug H.]

This business model of having presales and keeping framesets somewhat scarce is interesting. People know if they don't act quickly their chance may be gone for a year or more. Or, they can try to get a frame/bicycle of choice in the used market. I must say it is aggravating as a consumer but as a business practice it seems to work!

Doug

[Collin A]

Doug, what you describe as being frustrating to the consumer is kinda what happened during COVID - a HUGE demand for bikes early in the pandemic encouraged a lot of companies to over-order parts and bikes (in hindsight) and now those same companies are stuck with all the overstock and are just losing money hand-over-fist...so I'm very happy Riv isn't going down the path of ordering to meet demand and focusing on designing good stuff that folks want and making sure the company holds on for the long haul.

Collin, Overstocked in Oakland

[Doug H.]

Your points make sense, Collin. Ordering to meet unreasonable, unsustainable demand would be a mistake for sure. Ordering enough to have inventory available would be nice, as a consumer. But, I am in no way knowledgeable about how to run a business successfully. I was just offering my observation.

Doug

[Andy Beichler]

Doug, I don't have any insight but perhaps someone here, does.  Has Rivendell started making smaller orders or are they just more popular? Either of those could cause low inventory situations. As someone who has bought parts but never a frame from Rivendell, the main issue for me with low inventory is that I can't endlessly do the pro/con rundown in my head on buying an available frame or complete.  :)

Back on topic-I won't be buying an Atlantis today but I will log in later to see if there is one still available in my size.

[EGNolan]

It seems they're more popular, but the Riv mindset isn't to grow, it's to remain sustainable. So rather than maximize sales potential, but possibly sit on product for months or years, it's better to order just enough to mostly sell out. 

I get that it's frustrating not to be able to order one of any size of any frame at any time, but the companies that keep that kind of stock also have to charge enough initially so they still make money when they close out last year's model for 50% off before they pay taxes on anything they don't sell by year's end.

I think it's easier to manage cash flow, expectations and all of the plates they're spinning if they can be intentional about quantities rather than having them sit around and having to figure out how to sell them. They used to have a lot more frames available when they had a lot more sizes of each frame and had a bit less of an audience. I don't think quantities have been reduced, I think variables (like number of sizes per bike, custom paint, etc.) have, which make them easier to sell. 

Sustainable business practices don't always feel "good for the consumer" but I'd rather have Rivendell Bicycle Works around than have the option to buy a frame in my size at any time if it meant they went buh-bye.

$.02

Best,

Eric

Indpls

[iamkeith]

They've been pretty transparent about their goals and stratgy, through blogs and blahgs and emails.

 In fact, I can't think of another company that wears it's business on it's sleeve so openly.  If someone wanted to read enough archives, the thought process would become pretty clear.

My recollection, to add to what's already been said, is that they would prefer to order EXACTLY enough for everybody who wants one immediately, and also have EXACTLY enough extra stock for a year or two of future sales of each model.  But it' obviously difficult to predict what that number will be.  It's not to intentionally create a rush or to keep them exclusive by shutting some people out.  On the other hand, they do need for customers to act with some urgency once the shipment lands, because it locks up a lot of cash that they can't afford to be without.

The required minimum quantities of sizes that don't sell well adds to the difficulty.  As does their limited storage space.

I understand  why someone would be frustrated, and have been there myself.  Ever since the Great Recession, I've sort of lived hand-to-mouth, and am not always able to make big or spontaneous or discretionary purchases at times that coincide with Rivendell's schedule.  Probably a good thing, in some ways.  If I could, I'd buy an Atlantis today, just to test-fit - knowing there isn't a just-right size - and then probably release it later.

[Doug H.]

I regrettably derailed the original intent of this thread. Who it planning to order an Atlantis today? If you do plan to order one, which color?

Doug

[Alfonso Saco Díaz]

It’s been a very informative off-topic though, Doug.

As I said, I plan on getting a size 55 in Blue. As much as I liked the last batch of Appas in Sergio Green, the Atlantis version isn’t quite of my liking.

It’d also be interesting to see what sizes people order based in their height and PBH. I’m 6’1 and 88 PBH and am going for size 55 as I plan on riding mainly off-road, maxing out tire size and therefore I’d welcome the standover provided in size 55.

Good luck in the presale

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[Nicolas H]

When I first saw the production schedule I immediately knew I wanted an Atlantis. But after thinking about my cycling habits and goals, I realized it's probably wayy too much bike for me. If I lived in a more rural environment and my group rides were more geared towards that environment then the Atlantis would be THE bike. But for now, my Roadini is more than enough for the pavelement/trail rides. Better that one of those beautiful rides goes to someone who will actually use it like it's supposed to be.

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[Doug H.]

I am just under 5'10" or a tad over 5'9" ;-), with an 83 PBH. I would likely go with a size 53 but according to the recommended sizing could ride a 50 too. I prefer to have just a fist full of seat post showing. I like both colors.

Doug

[Armand Kizirian]

I've got dibs on a 55cm in submarine green at noon! I'm about 5' 10.5" with about an 85cm pbh, barefoot. I have a good idea of fit because of my 55cm Platypus, just slightly less reach and more stack with the 55cm Atlantis, which should work out perfectly in dialing my fit. Going 55 vs 53 also means taller stack, and a larger main triangle for a custom half frame bag. Not overly concerned with an abundance of stand over height, as I will be mostly riding this on pavement and smoother fire roads, have a proper mountain bike for singletrack.

I appreciate the pump peg being out of the main triangle, though I wish they would just put it behind the seat tube and take advantage of that massive real estate with the long chainstays. Plus a nod to old school mtb's pump placement. I will end up color matching a frame pump, just 'cause. Excited to run some 55cm rene herse slicks and squeeze in some Honjo flat fenders.

As for the business model of minimal inventory, I think it's great. From a behavioral design perspective, it easily tips those who are on the fence of purchasing into buying, such as myself! I definitely don't need an Atlantis right now, my Platypus checks enough boxes. But because I know I want a traditional diamond frame at some point, and that "some point" is in these limited windows of time, I will buy one today. Limited availability and scarcity wreaks havoc with our evolutionary psychology when it comes to objects of need or desire. More businesses need to be content with their size, and evolve just enough to account for inflation and rising wages, like Rivendell do.

[Ben Miller]

Oh wow, looks like they have already sold out of 50, 55, & 59's! Hoping the people on here wanting those sizes got 'em!

[Armand Kizirian]

Apparently I do not have dibs one a 55cm Submarine Green Atlantis! Was ready to go at noon, apparently the time it took for me to change my shipping address was enough to sell out in the first minute. Still want one should a lucky buyer change their mind.

6 minutes in and all 50, 55, 59 sizes in both colors sold out! Insane. I wonder what quantities they had available.

[Ben Miller]

Sorry to hear that Armand! Yeah, looks like all the Classic Sub Green are sold out, other that the largest size, in less than 5 mins. Hopefully you can get one from one of the Riv dealers, like Blue Lug or Analog?? 

[Doug H.]

Unbelievable! All sold except size 62 Sergio Green.

Doug

[iamkeith]

And only a couple of those!  Continuing the parallel discussion, I'd bet it would have been frustrating even for Rivendell to not have enough,  if they felt like they might have missed some sales and left money on the table.  Let's assume they ordered exactly the right number.  That's impressive!

[der_amerikanische_freund]

I wonder, if getting one online in the presale is almost impossible, can't you just call ahead Analog cycles or some other dealer and reserve one on the phone?

I think an improvement to Riv's current system would be to have a time window before placing an order (let's 6 months before, even 1 year before) where everyone who wants one pays a deposit. That way they know how many frames they will sell, and they will place and order accordingly, and they will also get a lot of cash in advance (more so than they do now), and people will have certainty they will get the frame they wanted. If someone bails out last minute, Rivendell would still keep the deposit money, plus they can still sell the bike to a new person.

[Drew Fitchette]

I reached out to Analog about the Clem's (as I missed out on a 59cm complete/frame) and got this response:

"Hi Drew, 

Riv, for a number of reasons that are not very interesting, has temporarily suspended all dealer frame sales.  Hopefully by summer it's back in action, but the last frames we were able to get were the Roadinis.  So no clems, I'm sorry!"

Blue Lug might be your best bet, as they still got some of the last round of Clems(of which I still missed out on a 59cm....). Though it might be worth reaching out to James at Analog before then!

[Jay]

It's like trying to buy concert tickets and the use of 'bots'!

[der_amerikanische_freund]

That is very odd, especially considering they now have a number of dealers outside the USA, like The Woods Cyclery in the UK, and La Chouette in France.

I guess ordering from Blue Lug would mean you end up paying a lot more for the frame, as its sale price in Japanese Yen will include import duties from USA to Japan, plus you will have to pay import duties again to get it back to USA.

[Jason Fuller]

I too was surprised at how quickly these went - I suppose, it's been a long time since the last run of Atlantis and that Sergio green is to die for.  But still, wow. 

Agree with the suggestion to keep an eye on Blue Lug - hopefully they are receiving some but probably selling once stocked, not as a presale. They seem to be able to hang onto stock MUCH longer, despite selling at a pretty similar landed price to getting directly from Riv. 

And on the other part of the discussion, while it would seem from a customer perspective that it can't be that hard to gauge demand to avoid running out within minutes, I think it's actually very difficult - and if they get it wrong the other way, they'll have more stock than space to store it.  As mentioned Grant has a company size that is comfortable and I really respect sticking with that. It's tough to miss out though for sure, especially when you've been looking forward to it for a while. Again hope Blue Lug comes to the rescue for those who are crestfallen! 

[Kat]

That was lightning fast! Everything gone now. Sorry to those who missed out. Interesting to hear that they are suspending dealer sales, I am in fact interested in the non-interesting reasons. I do wonder whether non-US dealers are included in that.

Anyone here who did snag one? What are your plans? Frame swap, Riv build, local build?

Alfonso - A pre-pre-sale would be an interesting idea. Then they could order Y frames (Y = number of people who pre-pre-ordered) + X frames (X = number for dealers, extra number for those who didn't pre-pre-order). I imagine the lead times would be in the years rather than months though.

[Jason Fuller]

I have to imagine that their suppliers in Taiwan are also managing a delicate balance between various customers and the option to increase an order quantity on an upcoming batch is probably closed looong in advance.  A 'build to order' preorder sounds great for a patient and forward-planning customer, but I think that Grant would hate to take people's money that far in advance and be responsible for it.  

Looking at the 2025 schedule, some good alternatives coming - a sage Hillborne??  Perfection! 

[Menos Joven]

  I wonder if there are factory capacity constraints in Taiwan such as size, materials, or skilled frame builders. Riv definitely wouldn’t compromise quality. If not, I think the suggestion of non refundable deposits is a good one for model size and color. Of course I’d hope they would have enough demand for the model size and color I want. :) 2025 will not offer the color I want and with no guarantee with regards to color in 2026, let alone the current 5 minute dash procedure, I am definitely considering letting go of the Riv dream and riding something else or what I already have.

[Mike Rossi]

Very fortunate here to have gotten my size and color!

And, I was in a very similar situation as Armand with the last Platypus run. But, a couple of months later Blue Lug had frame sets available which ended up being better for me than the completes that Riv were offering. The shipping was a little higher, but there were not any customs charges or import duties or anything like that. I believe that’s because I had it shipped to my residential address rather than a business (like an office or LBS). BUT, it seems some have more difficulty in matters than I do. I run Ortho bars that have never slipped, I use Silver shifters that don’t ghost shift, etc…, so take this info with this in mind, “YMMV”.

Mike

On Mar 20, 2025, at 8:55 PM, Menos Joven <les.yo...@gmail.com> wrote:

  I wonder if there are factory capacity constraints in Taiwan such as size, materials, or skilled frame builders. Riv definitely wouldn’t compromise quality. If not, I think the suggestion of non refundable deposits is a good one for model size and color. Of course I’d hope they would have enough demand for the model size and color I want. :) 2025 will not offer the color I want and with no guarantee with regards to color in 2026, let alone the current 5 minute dash procedure, I am definitely considering letting go of the Riv dream and riding something else or what I already have.

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[Brent Knepper]

I too was hoping to get a 53cm in the og color. in the cart at 3:00, couldn't complete because sold out at 3:01 ᴖ̈

should we all make WTB posts for our missed frames simultaneously??

Brent in NY

[Kim H.]

@Drew,

There is a used 59cm blue Clem on the San Fransisco Craigslist site:

https://sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/bik/d/mill-valley-59cm-rivendell-clem-smith-jr/7824967277.html

Kim Hetzel.

[Brian McDermott]

I have an Appaloosa so was watching the sale out of curiosity, wild how quickly they went. I’d chalk it up to what, five years since the last Atlantis batch?

[Kat]

There's also no Appaloosas this year - so possibly at least some of the demand is people who would have otherwise gone for an Appaloosa.

[Drew Fitchette]

Kim - I may have actually taken advantage of the other Clem post you so graciously put on the Craigslist thread. The owner dropped it off at Blue Heron Bike Shop for me on Tuesday and it's on it's way to Atlanta now. So I already owe you many thanks! 

I second Mike's experience with Blue Lug. I ordered my Appa frame from them and it was very price competitive with Riv despite being shipped DHL from Japan. I also didn't have to pay any import fee/duty on the frame. So it's definitely worth keeping an eye on their global web store for these to pop up.

I also agree with Kat's thought on the fact that there won't be any Appaloosa's this year either. So those who have been holding out for an Atlantis will have gone Submarine Green, and those who would've bought an Appa probably didn't mind either way = lots of Demand. 

Excited to see builds from those of you who snagged one, and sorry to hear that so many weren't able to grab a frame! 

[Dorothy C]

Alfonso, from what I understand Blue Lug get their frames direct from Taiwan. There is no pre import to the US and back out to Japan. 

Not in the market as I have 6 Rivs already, but I was idly wondering what it would take to rebuild my 47 650b Roadini to an Atlantis. Currently have 46cm Appa ( comfortable) , 47cm Roadini ( too small), 50cm tigged Roadini, 50 cm lugged Roadini, 50 cm Platy and 55 cm Cheviot, the latter four being perfect in size.

[Andy Beichler]

I love most of the colors that Riv offers but the Riv Blue on that Clem for sale in San Francisco tops the list.  I saw a 64cm Clem in that color online. If I could find one used, I would have a hard time saying no. If they ever offer the 64 in that color again, I will have to grab it.  

Note-I could easily fit the 59 but the 64 speaks to me.

[Benz Ouyang, Sunnyvale, CA]

My understanding of presale and conservative ordering is to afford Rivendell more cash flow stability. These bikes need to be paid for when shipped, and small outfits like Rivendell are taking on risk by tying up their capital (probably borrowed capital at that) in such a big shipment. The presale means they have less capital tied up, and thus are able to weather any change in market better. Ordering more conservative numbers addresses the same risk of tying up capital, with the disadvantage of not maximizing sales. But Grant has mentioned numerous times that Rivendell isn't about growth, but sustainability (for the company and employees).

Plus Rivendells probably aren't bikes one buys "on a whim". They're not the kind of IG fashionable that a newest Specialized, Trek or Cannondale is. I'd like to think Rivendells require more considered and mindful buyers, who plan out such purchases over time, being satisfied that whatever they buy will be for the long term (and wouldn't care that there'll be a fancy new model next year to make this year's "obsolete").

[Bill Lindsay]

"Rivendells probably aren't bikes one buys "on a whim""

I think the pre-sale "excitement" might make impulse buying more likely.  Somebody who has money, and senses there's a rush on these things, may buy one without much thought.  I think that's part of why there's a fairly high frequency of used Rivendells on the secondhand market that are practically unridden and at close to MSRP or even above retail.  It makes me think people DO buy them on a whim, and get bored of the idea and sell them.  I know Riv would rather have customers that really ride the bikes, but they don't have any way of knowing ahead of time, and there's no fair way to turn down a paying customer because you suspect they won't ride enough.  

Bill Lindsay

El Cerrito, CA

[Kim H.]

@Benz, 

I agree with what you said, of which is very well written. 

Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

Kim Hetzel.

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[der_amerikanische_freund]

@Dorothy, that is awesome regarding Blue Lug sale price. It's not as good in Europe. As a reference, both the Woods Cyclery and La Chouette charge 2300 EUR for the frame. That is roughly 2500 USD as per today's exchange rate (38% more expensive). I honestly don't know why the price increase is so great, considering they also get the frames shipped from Taiwan, so no tax or duties for importing from the US. Or rather, I honestly don't know how Blue Lug can keep sell them for roughly the same price as Riv does in the US.

Regarding @Bill's comment, do you/we think the New Yorker article has increased demand among 'wealthier' and 'trendier' users who may just buy a Rivendell 'cause they can, and looks pretty by today's standards of glorifying retro looking stuff?

[Jason Fuller]

I don't know if it's intentional, but I really believe that the several reminders by email and social media about the upcoming sale, combined with claims that they'll sell out quick and be gone for a long time afterwards, drives up the demand by those convinced they better act now even if they're unsure. I think they're doing this because they don't want people to lose out by being too relaxed about it, but seems to me like it's at least partially causing the mad rush.    

[ly29]

Sounds about right. My impression of the Riv folks that I met are that they are genuinely nice folks who want their enthusiasts to get the Riv of their dreams. I also think that they are truly sad to hear that people have missed out. But yes, in trying to get the word out, the mad rush ensues and some folks are left out in the cold. Others have mentioned that the Atlantis hasn’t been around for a while and apparently the pent-up demand far exceeded what they offered. At this point, maybe the best they can do is to put it in the rotation for next year.

The light within me honors the light within you!

"I'd put my money on solar energy... I hope we don't have to wait until oil and coal run out before we tackle that."
-Thomas Edison, in conversation with Henry Ford and Harvey Firestone, March 1931

On Fri, Mar 21, 2025 at 15:02 Jason Fuller <jtf.f...@gmail.com> wrote:

I don't know if it's intentional, but I really believe that the several reminders by email and social media about the upcoming sale, combined with claims that they'll sell out quick and be gone for a long time afterwards, drives up the demand by those convinced they better act now even if they're unsure. I think they're doing this because they don't want people to lose out by being too relaxed about it, but seems to me like it's at least partially causing the mad rush.    

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[Andy Beichler]

My inner cheapskate, which is deeply ingrained from growing up relatively poor, has me looking at Rivendell prices and thinking that they are crazy compared to what you can get elsewhere.  But, as an adult I have learned about come to value sustainability and living wages for everyone. My inner cheapskate kicks in first because it has been around longer, but I ignore it when it comes to small businesses who are dedicated to sustainability, living wages and not mindlessly growing. 

[Jim Murray]

I missed out already on a 55 in green, sold out already... at 12:01:45...

Jim

On Wednesday, March 19, 2025 at 12:46:33 PM UTC-7 Doug H. wrote:

This business model of having presales and keeping framesets somewhat scarce is interesting. People know if they don't act quickly their chance may be gone for a year or more. Or, they can try to get a frame/bicycle of choice in the used market. I must say it is aggravating as a consumer but as a business practice it seems to work!

Doug

On Tuesday, March 18, 2025 at 3:45:42 PM UTC-4 der_amerikanische_freund wrote:

I am planning on getting one in Atlantis classic color. I was kind of disappointed it is being offered in a color other than the classic Atlantis blue. I think that was part of its appeal, the original (albeit very different to the original model) bike in the Riv line-up that was only offered in one color, true to its principles blah blah blah. Also with Sergio green also being the color of the Appaloosa, and those two bikes being so similar, I would even be tempted to merge them, effectively discontinuing one of the two, and offer more intermediate sizes of the resulting "Appa-lantis".

Another thing I am not too enthused about this year's model is the pump peg in the seat stays. I do prefer the less conspicuous pin in the head tube underneath the top tube. I think that if you are not planning on carrying a large pump in the seat stay (either because you have a mini pump or because you large pump lives in a frame bag), the peg itself is a bit of an eyesore that ruins the straight line simplicity of the seat stays and rear triangle.

El lunes, 17 de marzo de 2025 a las 12:39:24 UTC, Doug H. escribió:

Hi Kat,

I agree that the original Atlantis color is classic and to my eyes just suits the bike. But, I really like the Sergio Green which would make it a tough choice for me! I have always been a fan of shades of green anyway including the Lime Olive green that Riv has used. I wonder if the Atlantis bikes will sell out and/or sell quickly during the presale? It is always fun to watch but even more fun to participate.

Doug

On Monday, March 17, 2025 at 5:42:37 AM UTC-4 Kat wrote:

Just days now until the 2025 Atlantis sale! Who's planning on getting one? What colour? I'm interested in hearing people's thoughts on the Sergio green - I do feel much of the appeal of the Atlantis is that gorgeous blue. Interested to hear people's plans.

Thanks,

Kathryn

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[Kim H.]

Hi Drew,

My apologies for being so late in replying to your post of gratitude. I want to say you are more than welcome. I was taken with awe over the beautiful blue color of the frameset for the first time from the pictures. I hope everything you anticipate about owning an Atlantis comes true with a lot of wonderful and memorable experiences.

Long may you ride,

Kim Hetzel.

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[rlti...@gmail.com]

I was just at the Blue Lug in Yoyogi Park and they did have Atlantis frames there. I am not sure if all are claimed but all I saw were either being built up or already assembled. I did not take a good look to see if any of the frames hanging from the roof were Atlantis frames or not since time was limited.  Here are a couple of pics:

Robert Tilley

San Diego, CA (but currently in Tokyo)

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 21, 2025, at 9:24 AM, Jason Fuller <jtf.f...@gmail.com> wrote:

I too was surprised at how quickly these went - I suppose, it's been a long time since the last run of Atlantis and that Sergio green is to die for.  But still, wow. 

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[Mike in BK]

Hi Robert,

Blue Lug got the Atlantis frames already? They are closer to Taiwan, but Riv didn't even get them yet, right?

[rlti...@gmail.com]

They were building up frames. I assume they were from the new batch but I didn’t ask. 

Robert Tilley

San Diego, CA

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 30, 2025, at 11:47 AM, Mike in BK <michae...@gmail.com> wrote:

Hi Robert,

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[Alfonso Saco Díaz]

I know of at least one European dealer who has got their Atlantis frames already. I would have thought shipping times were similar for Taiwan -> USA (via Pacific Ocean) and Taiwan -> Europe (via Suez Canal)

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[Feliks Ulvåen Isaksen]

Most Riv dealers get their frames directly from the factory, not via Riv HQ as I understand it. Blue Lug has traditionally received their frames very early due to their proximity to Taiwan. They have had frames for sale quite early in the past, but they just posted that they will not be selling the Atlantis frames online, but through in-store raffles only. 

[Drew Fitchette]

As mentioned in another thread in case anyone here missed it. Blue Lug has most sizes in Sergio green in stock here:

https://global.bluelug.com/rivendell-atlantis-frame-set-sergio-green-1.html

Go grab one if you missed out, and can stomach not having the traditional submarine paint job!

[Mike Gillespie]

They became available last Friday and I couldn’t resist.  Well, it arrived today, and I’m more than happy! The Sergio green is stunning, especially in sunlight.  There’s a pearl-like iridescence which isn’t apparent in photos. After seeing Atlantis’ in submarine green for 26 years (wow, that long) I was tending towards that option anyway when I missed out on any pre-sale. I was kinda worried about getting hit with a tariff change, but gladly there was none. It did get stuck in customs for about half a day and FedEx emailed a form to fill out, but otherwise all went smoothly. If you’re still considering an Atlantis I think you’ll be pleased.

Mike G.

[Josh C]

Mike, pics...or it didn't happen.

[Mike Gillespie]

Hi Folks,

I’ve been keeping a close eye on the Blue Lug site ever since missing out on the pre-sale, and after others here mentioned them as an alternative source. A few weeks ago they were posted as available on their site but only for “in-store sale”. Then a couple of weeks ago the price increased (about $120 or so). Well as today they’re available for sale on the site. All sizes currently in stock. Unfortunately for some, only in the Sergio green color (traditional blue/green sold out).

Since the Sergio green happened to be my color of choice, I’m all in! Now, just wondering if there will be an additional tariff or if that earlier price increase was actually the tariff charge? Shipping was a reasonable $118 for 2-3 day arrival via fedex.

Anyway, just a heads up to anyone else who might be interested.

Mike

Sequim, WA

[der_amerikanische_freund]

Mike, I understood from your previous message that you had already bought it and in fact it had already arrived.

Can you please confirm that you just had to pay the $118 fee and no additional charges?

If that were there case it'd definitely be a good deal. Speaking for my own country (Spain), I would definitely have to pay a lot more than that. For instance, any item purchased from outside the European incurs around a 30% fee to account for VAT and customs handling fees. I guess the US has a different policy when importing from other countries. For further reference, the sale price of the Atlantis frames at one of their European dealers was 2300€ which as per today's exchange rate is equivalent to $2600. That's a 40% increase from the original sale price.

[scott minor]

Bluelug price didn't go up, the dollar went down!  Still, grab it while you can...

[G Ram]

I got mine delivered today  - sergio green from BL - total was  around $1980.

[Mackenzy Albright]

I just made a $400 order from BL. Shipping was $43 and about $30 for BC gst/pst which is in line with the province. No unexpected charges thankfully (DHL was inconsistent). I do miss DHL's delivery on demand. Fedex isn't quite as user friendly. 

[Spencer]

I just ordered a 53 Atlantis from Blue Lug, I'll report back and let ya'll know if I get hit with any surprises in a week xD Super excited

[Spencer]

I see this and your message above and am a bit confused. Did you end up actually getting the frame and end up not having to pay any tariffs? Been digging in and it looks like personal import under $2500 + bike frames from Japan may dodge any regular import fees: https://hts.usitc.gov/search?query=8714.91.20 and https://usacustomsclearance.com/process/import-costs-from-japan/, but am not sure if any additional tariffs apply or not with all the recent stuff so hesitant to pull the trigger.

On Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 2:44:40 PM UTC-4 Mike Gillespie wrote:

[Mike Gillespie]

Sorry for my confusing post. For whatever reason, they were listed in the wrong order as I wrote this message below last Friday when they became available for order. However, to answer your question, there were no extra fees or tariffs, not even a sales tax. Only shipping, which was $118. I did get a call from FedEx requesting I fill out a customs form 5106 along with a statement regarding “end-use, and primary material composition”. I basically replied “bicycle frame and fork for personal use only, and steel tubing”. Overall everything went smoothly and I’m totally satisfied.

Mike G

[Spencer]

No worries! Mine got approved out of order as well so it reads kinda confusing as well. Just placed my order today - looking at more of the Sergio Green pics and I had to jump on it (missed the original presale). Thanks for including what you put in the statement as well - will be using something along those lines. 

Spencer

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[Mike Gillespie]

Ok Josh, here’s proof (hopefully). My attempt at capturing the metallic nature of the paint job doesn’t come out well with my iPhone so these will have to suffice. Today’s ride was just a shake down, so some things will probably change at some point.

Mike

[Josh C]

That's what I'm talk'n about, Mike. Killer setup. I'm a fan of that color way. My wife's platty is in that color and it looks great in person. 

I run that same outer shell basket bag for my daily commutes. I have the larger one, I believe it's called the rack bag, and I used to run it on a soma porta folder rack, but now I just put it in the larger wald basket and it's nearly perfect for me. 

[Taylor Kurosaki]

I was also incredibly excited for the Atlantis presale and missed out on an opportunity to snag a blue Atlantis. I even went to Blue Lug's site shortly thereafter and was disappointed they had no stock. Yesterday I pulled the trigger on a 59cm in Sergio Green from Blue Lug and already got a FedEx tracking number. Couldn't be more excited and think it's kinda cool my Atlantis is coming from them. I stopped by their Yoyogi Park store in Tokyo last year and I haven't felt so much like a kid in a candy store in a long time. Thanks to those who alerted us to Blue Lug's stock!

[Taylor Kurosaki]

Be aware, my Blue Lug Atlantis frameset is now stuck in US customs! The Trump tariffs are real and it's no joke that the "importer" pays the tariffs, not the seller. I just got off the phone with FedEx and they are supposedly sending me a form to be able to clear customs, and ostensibly, to pay an import tariff on the goods.

They require the following information:

1. Description of the goods: It’s a bicycle frame.

2. What are the items made of: made of steel, 100%

3. What is the item used for: it’s a bicycle, it’s made for riding

4. 10 digit harmonized US tariff number?: no idea how to find this

5. EIN or SSN of the importer: I guess that's me!

[Scott G.]

HTS codes link

Have fun or hire a lawyer.

https://rulings.cbp.gov/search?term=bicycle%20frame&collection=ALL&sortBy=RELEVANCE&pageSize=30&page=1

This not legal advice, 

the message is covered under the Papal Encyclical of 1541.

[Bernard Duhon]

Any idea what the tarrif might be??

 

From: rbw-owne...@googlegroups.com <rbw-owne...@googlegroups.com> On Behalf Of Scott G.
Sent: Tuesday, April 29, 2025 7:09 PM
To: RBW Owners Bunch <rbw-owne...@googlegroups.com>
Subject: Re: [RBW] Re: IRe: 2025 Atlantis pre-sale

 

HTS codes link

Have fun or hire a lawyer.

 

https://rulings.cbp.gov/search?term=bicycle%20frame&collection=ALL&sortBy=RELEVANCE&pageSize=30&page=1

 

This not legal advice, 

the message is covered under the Papal Encyclical of 1541.

 

 

 

On Tuesday, April 29, 2025 at 7:41:18 PM UTC-4 taylork...@gmail.com wrote:

Be aware, my Blue Lug Atlantis frameset is now stuck in US customs! The Trump tariffs are real and it's no joke that the "importer" pays the tariffs, not the seller. I just got off the phone with FedEx and they are supposedly sending me a form to be able to clear customs, and ostensibly, to pay an import tariff on the goods.

 

They require the following information:

1. Description of the goods: It’s a bicycle frame.

2. What are the items made of: made of steel, 100%

3. What is the item used for: it’s a bicycle, it’s made for riding

4. 10 digit harmonized US tariff number?: no idea how to find this

5. EIN or SSN of the importer: I guess that's me!

 

On Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 9:10:45 AM UTC-7 Taylor Kurosaki wrote:

I was also incredibly excited for the Atlantis presale and missed out on an opportunity to snag a blue Atlantis. I even went to Blue Lug's site shortly thereafter and was disappointed they had no stock. Yesterday I pulled the trigger on a 59cm in Sergio Green from Blue Lug and already got a FedEx tracking number. Couldn't be more excited and think it's kinda cool my Atlantis is coming from them. I stopped by their Yoyogi Park store in Tokyo last year and I haven't felt so much like a kid in a candy store in a long time. Thanks to those who alerted us to Blue Lug's stock!

On Friday, April 25, 2025 at 6:09:04 AM UTC-7 Josh C wrote:

That's what I'm talk'n about, Mike. Killer setup. I'm a fan of that color way. My wife's platty is in that color and it looks great in person. 

 

I run that same outer shell basket bag for my daily commutes. I have the larger one, I believe it's called the rack bag, and I used to run it on a soma porta folder rack, but now I just put it in the larger wald basket and it's nearly perfect for me. 

On Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 10:12:49 PM UTC-4 Mike Gillespie wrote:

Ok Josh, here’s proof (hopefully). My attempt at capturing the metallic nature of the paint job doesn’t come out well with my iPhone so these will have to suffice. Today’s ride was just a shake down, so some things will probably change at some point.

Mike

 

On Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at 7:18:05 PM UTC-7 Josh C wrote:

Mike, pics...or it didn't happen.

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[Mike Rossi]

Ouch. According to the newest HTS website, it looks like the code is 8714912000. That’s for bicycle frames, and forks totaling over $600.

But, double check that.

Mike

On Apr 29, 2025, at 8:44 PM, Bernard Duhon <ber...@bernardduhon.com> wrote:



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[Taylor Kurosaki]

The listed tariff with any of the bicycle frame-adjacent codes is 30%. This is total madness.

On Apr 29, 2025, at 5:53 PM, Mike Rossi <mwill...@gmail.com> wrote:

Ouch. According to the newest HTS website, it looks like the code is 8714912000. That’s for bicycle frames, and forks totaling over $600.

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[Spencer]

Also not lawyer, but looked into this and here's what I'm seeing. The 30% rate I'm assuming you're seeing for 8714.91.20 applies to Russia, Cuba, North Korea, and Belarus. For bike frames from Japan, I'd assume they fall under the Japan special rate since the US and Japan have an existing trade agreement (pre-global tariff) so the rate for bike frames is 0%, 3.9% worst case according to that table. Here's where I'm seeing this: https://hts.usitc.gov/search?query=8714912000 (view on a laptop, the mobile view is bad).

My assumption is there may be a 10% tariff applied with the whole global tariff thing, but I'm not sure if that applies to individuals vs business imports or any specifics.

Give Fedex a call: 800-249-2953 (think they're open like 8am-8pm ET) and have them walk you through the form on the phone, they're helpful. Then ask to stay on the line after you submit it via docusign to confirm they got it, and see if they can pass along to the customs agent right then (getting. this from a reddit thread lol).

Hope this helps!

Spencer

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[Brian McDermott]

Wow sooo is that like an extra $600?

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[Garth]

Correct me if I'm wrong but aren't tariffs based on the wholesale price ? 

[Drew Fitchette]

As someone who's currently in the mire of paying tariffs on containers coming from various countries I can say that some have seemed to reflect the FOB(free on board) price, and some have seemed to reflect a Landed price. Meaning sometimes we're charged for only the cost of the goods, and sometimes we pay 10% on the price of transit. So it'd appear that the agents are kind of figuring it out as they go, but in both cases it was the flat 10% that we're set to incur until July when the "retaliatory tariffs" are done being paused. 

Garth, Tariffs are based on whatever the invoice amount is to the end importer. So in this case, Taylor is the importer and FedEx is his broker. Since Blue Lug imports the frames directly from Taiwan we're technically re-importing the frames when we buy them and are subject to the fee being based on their retail price. For Riv, the tariffs they pay are based on the container value of the frames/completes ordered from Taiwan and then passed on to us as customers.

Taylor, I'm sorry that you seem to be the first one here to experience a hang up! Thanks for letting all of us know what's going on, it's super helpful!

- Drew who's wondering why he works in Import/Export...

[Isaak Oliansky]

Howdy Friends-

Please don't mind if I jump in this thread for a bit of Atlantis questioning. I reckon that's a little better than starting a new one. I am a proud owner of a 57cm Joe Appaloosa setup with a 135mm faceplater stem and ron's ortho bars which I absolutely adore as my townie. I'm curious about sizing down to a 55cm Atlantis and running drop bars and a shortie stem. It seems like drop bars are not all-too common on these MIT Atlanti' and I'm curious if anyone else has gone that direction. 6'0" with a short inseam (PBH uhhh 80 something?) and a long torso.  

-Isaak in Ashland, OR 

[Spencer]

Reporting back, I just received my frame through blue lug today that I ordered last Thursday/Friday. No charges or tariffs to report. Took a few days to get through customs and had to call fedex and submit some a form and then follow-up, but after that it was smooth sailing. 

Spencer

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[Brent Knepper]

I also ordered a blue lug 'lantis last friday and had it delivered today. no email/text/call or point of delivery paperwork with tariffs, but maybe there's a chance that comes later?

 

for now my focus will be on figuring out how to make a sergio-green bike look cute as hell ◡̈

Brent in NY

[Taylor Kurosaki]

 I got my Atlantis from Blue Lug early this week. Looks like I didn't pay any tariff.

[G Ram]

Interesting. I had mine delivered to RBW late April and got a fedex bill of $300..

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[Brent Knepper]

yeah fedex got me earlier in the week for ~$250 duty/tax/fee/anything-but-the-word-tariff thing

[Ryan]

Ouch!

[Mike Gillespie]

Received my tariff/duties/customs/processing/disbursement fees from FedEx today.  $305. Guess it was too good to be true after all. My apologies to anyone who made a similar purchase based on my prior post here. This was my first purchase from Blue Lug, and although I’ve made smaller parts purchases from European outlets in the past, I’ve never received a subsequent billing for duties, etc. Still, given how much I enjoy this bike, I’ve no regrets!

Mike

[Armand Kizirian]

While this thread is up, might as well mention that if anyone would like to sell their 55cm submarine green atlantis, to message me. ;)

[Bill Lindsay]

Ouch indeed.  Furthermore, when the tariff gets rolled back, or paused, any normal person will ask the bureaucratic abyss "Where's my tariff rebate?"  

<narrator voice>There is no tariff rebate</narrator voice>

Bill Lindsay

El Cerrito, CA

On Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 4:14:15 AM UTC-7 Ryan wrote:

[Doug H.]

I just ordered a 53 Atlantis in Submarine Green from CL Cycles. I will let you all know if there is a tariff charge since it is coming to the US from Canada. And, I will be on the search for components.

Doug

[Seung Vo]

Did you have to pay customs on the frame from blue lug? Thinking of purchasing from blue lug but was nervous about the customs and duties. 

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[Doug H.]

If the carrier crosses the border with my goods and pays the tariff/fees then do I not owe them a reimbursement? Free trade was so nice once upon a time. 

Doug

On Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 3:26:32 PM UTC-4 James Poulson wrote:

G Ram and others who have received 'tariff' bills from FedEx subsequent to the frame or other items being delivered. 

My wife is a pilot with FedEx and when I described to her the above discussion she scoffed and called higher ups within FedEx org. Their response is that you are being scammed. FedEx does not collect the 'tariff' or any subesquent charges. Do not pay those charges, especially if you have the merchandise in hand. 

I hope you have not already paid the 'tariff/duty/custom' whatever.

JP

[Taylor Kurosaki]

Welp, it turns out I just received a FedEx bill for $305.39. This amount is due to a tariff of 10%, a tariff of 3.9%, a processing fee of $32 and a disbursement fee of $14. So, buyer beware, you are all considered importers when buying from out of the country.

 

From: rbw-owne...@googlegroups.com <rbw-owne...@googlegroups.com> on behalf of Taylor Kurosaki <taylork...@gmail.com>
Date: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 3:31 PM
To: RBW Owners Bunch <rbw-owne...@googlegroups.com>
Subject: Re: [RBW] Re: IRe: 2025 Atlantis pre-sale

 I got my Atlantis from Blue Lug early this week. Looks like I didn't pay any tariff.

On Friday, May 2, 2025 at 2:18:41 PM UTC-7 in...@brentknepper.com wrote:

I also ordered a blue lug 'lantis last friday and had it delivered today. no email/text/call or point of delivery paperwork with tariffs, but maybe there's a chance that comes later?

 

 

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[Patrick Moore]

16%+ for a very nice frame; I wouldn’t like it but I’d happily pay it to get a frameset I really liked.

I’ll be interested to see and hear about the final build and your riding experiences.

Patrick Moore, ruthlessly bottom-trimming in ABQ. NM.

[Adrian]

Is anyone getting his with tariffs or charges for smaller items/orders? Or just oversized items like frames?

[Drew Fitchette]

Anyone with a 55cm Atlantis feeling their frame is a little too big?

Would be willing to straight trade my 54cm Appaloosa from the last batch. :-)

[Stephen A]

I got hit with tariffs on a $400 order from Blue Lug. Fedex sent me an invoice in the mail, which I got after the fact. Came out to about 10% extra...

[Spencer]

So crazy to hear the various charges fedex is hitting people with. I got hit with $0 from my blue lug shipment (ordered one of their Atlantis frames months ago). I called the FedEx import people and had them walk me through exactly how to fill out the forms. Got an invoice and other documentation for the import expecting to have some charges, but it listed $0 on there.

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[Donzaemon]

Spencer, can you speak to the process you went through for dealing with the shipment? Was it FedEx who contacted you when the order was at customs?

[Spencer]

At a high level it got held in Memphis, I called the FedEx import line (found it on their site somewhere and they didn’t contact me), they sent me a form to get an import ID number(19 CFR 24.5 form) and had some questions on the import itself. I had them walk me through all required fields as I filled it out, confirmed they received it when I submitted, and then confirmed they sent it to the customs agent while on the phone. 

For the import questions they had I clarified the import was a personal steel bike frame import for $1860.57 and then talked bikes for a few minutes with the support person. Lol

Giant disclaimer that they could’ve miscoded it so I may have gotten lucky and the tariff situation has changed since April/May so it could get hit with a tariff if I bought it now hypothetically. 

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[Donzaemon]

Thanks for that breakdown. Yeah, it sounds like your situation might have been a fluke. Grats, though. It's a bummer that the landscape is as it is today. 

[scott minor]

I missed the 5 minute window for buying an Atlantis on the Riv site so called up C&L in Canada the next day and bought one from the batch they preordered.  I've was half expecting an extra freight bill for tariff but never received one.  It's been two months now since I got the frame so seems to be in the clear.