After 15 years, a slight but significant makeover

[Norman R]

I bought a 52/650B Sam Hillborne in 2010 in Atlantis sea green and have been riding it ever since. This year I swapped out the Nitto noodle bar with an Albatross. It's like riding a new bike and more in line with my advancing age.  Before and after photos. I'll probably put one or both bags back on. 

[David P]

I'm sure the change in stems, to a Dirt Drop, also added to the comfort factor.  Nice change.

[J S]

Very nice, thee Hillborne is an incredible bike. I use choco bars on mine and am very happy. Been riding more upright since the early '90-'s due to back issues.

Enjoy

[Jason Fuller]

Looks great in both 'outfits' and it's really nice seeing one-owner bikes spanning decade(s)!  I have been with my Hillborne for 6 years now, and I fully see myself owning it after 15 - but will probably also move away from the drop bar by then too. 

[Paul M]

Out of curiosity, what cities are in the background? 

[Norman R]

One city, Manhattan skyline, NYC.

[Tony Lockhart]

I'm in the same boat as you, Norman. I got into biking in 2008, quickly found out about Rivendell, and bought a Hillborne in 2009. While I was lusting over an AHH, I was happy with my purchase and have been riding it ever since. I recently swapped from Noodles to Wavie bars and have a new appreciation for the bike. Haha, I've recently had fleeting thoughts of swapping out Noodles on my Roadini to upright bars! 

Just curious, is the sea green a repaint? Or did you buy the bike that way? My frame is chipped and scratched a million times over....I've been thinking about a nice refresh.

On Monday, April 21, 2025 at 11:03:38 AM UTC-7 Norman R wrote:

[Norman R]

When I ordered in 2010 it was available in orange(and perhaps another color I didn't like). But they offerred a $40. repaint in several colors they had on hand including Atlantis Green. So that's how I received the frame. It has a few blemishes but I'm still quite happy with it. Enjoy yours either way!

[RichS]

Norman, your Hillborne is a rarity. First time I've seen one in Atlantis Green. $40 for a repaint was pretty remarkable and generous. I bought an Atlantis in 2013 and had it repainted by D&D to the tune of $350. My Hillborne just had it's 11th birthday; looking forward to many more. 

Best,

Rich in ATL