0Overview
Versatile bikes for the masses
BlackHeart Bike Company was born out of a feeling of disillusionment with the mainstream cycling industry. Founder Zach Lambert became tired of being told that his bike was never light, fast, or stiff enough – that if he really wanted to ride, he needed to spend more money year after year.
In response, Zach spent over two years designing, prototyping, and testing a single bike that can be used on road and off road – simply by switching between two wheelsets.
The result is one bike that is perfect for the majority of terrain the average cycling enthusiast covers.
By applying our proven design philosophy to future models we are positioned strongly to scale BlackHeart into a major player in the global direct-to-consumer bicycle manufacturing market.
the problem
Bikes are becoming too specialized
Today’s cycling enthusiast likes to split their riding between paved, smooth roads and unpaved, gravel roads.
However, in an attempt to differentiate, most bike companies are innovating away from the majority of cycling enthusiasts, forcing them to choose between two options:
Neither option covers their riding needs, leaving consumers in the middle – required to purchase both types of bikes.
Image credit: flaticon.com
SOLUTION
Two bikes in one
The BlackHeart is one bike that looks and handles like a road bike on road, while having the capability of a modern gravel bike off road – simply by switching between two wheelsets.
the market
Gravel bikes are on their way up
While the industry has been making road bikes more and more specialized for the road, cyclists have become increasingly eager to venture onto backroads and dirt trails to avoid the increasing number of distracted drivers.
This has resulted in the emergence of the gravel bike segment – essentially road bikes with larger clearance for dirt tires – allowing cyclists to have the road bike experience in a safer environment, while having a little fun on the dirt too.
Prior to the COVID 19 pandemic, this shift in consumer sentiment resulted in gravel bikes being one of the few segments showing growth with 2018 U.S. sales up $20 million year-over-year.
The COVID 19 pandemic supercharged bike sales, resulting in an industry-wide boom with annual sales reaching $6.5 billion YOY as of April 2021 – a 57% increase.
As recent as June 2021, analysis supports that gravel bikes, a category that demonstrated strong growth before the pandemic, shows significant signs of opportunity for continued growth well into the future.
Our Traction
2021 has been a breakout year
After selling through most of our stock in the first year our sales exploded in 2021 with average monthly sales up 400%.
Demand was so high, we sold out of our most popular size in just over a month.
As of August 31st 2021, we had just one bike left and year-to-date sales totaled over $180K.
Our Products
Our flagship, titanium all-road bike launched in January 2020 and we have our next round of bikes in production and scheduled for delivery Q4 2021.
Our new, mass-market aluminum frameset is also in production with a targeted launch date in Q1 2022.
With the same design as the titanium model, but constructed out of aluminum, we can offer a price that is half that of the titanium bike – broadening our customer base.
Finally, in response to the only bike segment that is growing faster than gravel bikes, we have begun work on an e-bike version and are targeting a Q3 2022 launch.
*Render of current design shown
Strategic Manufacturing
We manufacture in Taiwan and China with independent safety testing conducted in Southern California. Through strategic manufacturing, we are able to eliminate typical research and design costs, compress manufacturing timelines, and maximize profit margins.
Direct-To-Consumer
The majority of our sales originate on our website with fulfillment handled in- house. By removing the need for an extensive, nationwide dealer network, we remove the need to price in dealer margins and pass along the savings to the consumer.
The few dealer relationships we do have are with high-end, boutique dealers and function primarily as part of the marketing strategy.
This allows us to be highly competitive with even the largest manufacturers in the industry.
Image credit: flaticon.com
How We Are Different
For years the major brands have been differentiating on minute differences in product features like weight, stiffness, and aerodynamic performance – consumer fatigue is real.
We compete by differentiating BlackHeart in 4 key areas:
Our Vision
Our goal is to become the largest direct-to-consumer bike manufacturer in the world by building a brand that prioritizes community and culture, and by applying our design philosophy and manufacturing strategy to bikes in every category.
why iNvest
After over 4 years of designing, prototyping, testing, refining, and selling, we’re finally reaching the most exciting stage of our company’s development.
New bikes are in production, pre-orders have already begun, and we’re growing towards our goal of becoming the largest direct-to-consumer bike brand in the world.
Through the StartEngine platform, you have the unique opportunity to invest in BlackHeart at a time normally reserved for large, private investors.
Become an investor and join the BlackHeart family today.
BlackHeart Bike Company is a new builder based in Venice Beach, CA. They’re launching with a single titanium allroad frameset, built for folks who ride 50/50 on/off-road. With short chainstays and ample tire clearance, it’s designed for anything from spirited group rides to light XC.
This week we sit down with Zachary Lambert, founder of Blackheart Bike Co. in Venice, CA. Zach walks us through the brand's namesake titanium frame and his new retail venture Luft launching in March 2021.
Grow Cycling Foundation and BlackHeart Bike Co. collaborated to offer a one-of-a-kind titanium all-road bike to raise money to build a pump track.
BlackHeart Bike Co. // Titanium All-Road Bike // Ridden And Reviewed!
Meet Zachary Lambert of BlackHeart Bike Company
The BlackHeart Allroad aluminum retains Ti version’s versatility, cuts price
Company | : | BlackHeart Bike Company |
Corporate Address | : | 2633 Lincoln Blvd #1212, Santa Monica, CA 90405 |
Offering Minimum | : | $10,000.00 |
Offering Maximum | : | $1,070,000.00 |
Minimum Investment Amount(per investor) | : | $248.00 |
Offering Type | : | Equity |
Security Name | : | Common Stock |
Minimum Number of Shares Offered | : | 1,250 |
Maximum Number of Shares Offered | : | 133,750 |
Price per Share | : | $8.00 |
Pre-Money Valuation | : | $8,000,000.00 |
*Maximum Number of Shares Offered subject to adjustment for bonus shares. See Bonus info below.
Company Perks*
Early Bird
■ Early Bird - First 7 days| 25% bonus shares
Volume
■ Tier 1 perk - ($500 + 3% bonus shares + BlackHeart hat)
■ Tier 2 perk - ($1000 + 5% bonus shares + BlackHeart sweatshirt)
■ Tier 3 perk - ($5,000 + 10% bonus shares + 10% off BlackHeart bike)
■ Tier 4 perk - ($10,000 + 15% bonus shares+ 25% off BlackHeart bike)
■ Tier 5 perk - ($25,000 + 20% bonus shares + BlackHeart Aluminum Bike with Shimano 105 Groupset)
■ Tier 6 perk - ($50,000 + 25% bonus shares + BlackHeart Titanium Bike with Shimano Ultegra Di2 Groupset)
*All perks occur after the offering is completed.
The 10% StartEngine Owners' Bonus
Blackheart Bike Company will offer 10% additional bonus shares for all investments that are committed by investors that are eligible for the StartEngine Crowdfunding Inc. OWNer's bonus.
This means eligible StartEngine shareholders will receive a 10% bonus for any shares they purchase in this offering. For example, if you buy 100 shares of Common Sotck at $8.00 / share, you will receive 110 shares of Common Stock, meaning you'll own 110 shares for $800. Fractional shares will not be distributed and share bonuses will be determined by rounding down to the nearest whole share.
This 10% Bonus is only valid during the investors' eligibility period. Investors eligible for this bonus will also have priority if they are on a waitlist to invest and the company surpasses its maximum funding goal. They will have the first opportunity to invest should room in the offering become available if prior investments are cancelled or fail.
Investors will only receive a single bonus, which will be the highest bonus rate they are eligible for.
Voting Rights of Securities Sold in this Offering
Voting Proxy. Each Subscriber shall appoint the Chief Executive Officer of the Company (the “CEO”), or his or her successor, as the Subscriber’s true and lawful proxy and attorney, with the power to act alone and with full power of substitution, to, consistent with this instrument and on behalf of the Subscriber, (i) vote all Securities, (ii) give and receive notices and communications, (iii) execute any instrument or document that the CEO determines is necessary or appropriate in the exercise of its authority under this instrument, and (iv) take all actions necessary or appropriate in the judgment of the CEO for the accomplishment of the foregoing. The proxy and power granted by the Subscriber pursuant to this Section are coupled with an interest. Such proxy and power will be irrevocable. The proxy and power, so long as the Subscriber is an individual, will survive the death, incompetency and disability of the Subscriber and, so long as the Subscriber is an entity, will survive the merger or reorganization of the Subscriber or any other entity holding the Securities. However, the Proxy will terminate upon the closing of a firm-commitment underwritten public offering pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933 covering the offer and sale of Common Stock or the effectiveness of a registration statement under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 covering the Common Stock.
A crowdfunding investment involves risk. You should not invest any funds in this offering unless you can afford to lose your entire investment. In making an investment decision, investors must rely on their own examination of the issuer and the terms of the offering, including the merits and risks involved. These securities have not been recommended or approved by any federal or state securities commission or regulatory authority. Furthermore, these authorities have not passed upon the accuracy or adequacy of this document. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission does not pass upon the merits of any securities offered or the terms of the offering, nor does it pass upon the accuracy or completeness of any offering document or literature. These securities are offered under an exemption from registration; however, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has not made an independent determination that these securities are exempt from registration.
Still on the fence? There are only 10 days left to invest in the global bike boom company that experienced 5X growth last year. Join the BlackHeart family and help support our growth with inventory purchases and employee hires.
Dan Chabanov from Bicycling Magazine came by our booth at Sea Otter a few weeks ago to checkout our Allroad Titanium and Aluminum bikes. It was his first time seeing our bikes in person and it was clear our titanium bike sparkled a little brighter than the rest. "I focused on the eight bikes that I saw at Sea Otter that, for one reason or another, made me stop in my tracks."
We have sent the new Allroad Aluminum bike to Bicycling Magazine for a full review, so keep an eye out for their expert opinion in the near future.
[The following is an automated notice from the StartEngine team].
Hello! Recently, a change was made to the BlackHeart Bike Company offering. Here's an excerpt describing the specifics of the change:
Issuer is extending campaign and updating financials
When live offerings undergo changes like these on StartEngine, the SEC requires that certain investments be reconfirmed. If your investment requires reconfirmation, you will be contacted by StartEngine via email with further instructions.
What do you do after 8 seasons in the NFL totaling 102 games, 111 receptions, 1307 yards, and 11 touchdowns... and one Super Bowl ring? You get a bike!
We first met Luke Willson at our sister shop, Luft Los Angeles, and after he snapped his carbon bike while testing its durability against a guardrail, we got to talking. Turns out the man likes bikes and loves inspiring as many people as possible to start riding and get healthy. Coaching great Pete Carroll called Luke the "lifeblood" of the Seattle Seahawks and it's easy to see why. Luke's energy is infectious and we can't wait to see his effect on the cycling community.
Beyond excited to welcome Luke to the BlackHeart ambassador team.
At the Sea Otter Classic bike show, Dave Rome from Cycling Tips was kind enough to stop by our booth to take a look at the new BlackHeart Allroad Al. In a sea of marketing hype one common theme kept coming up in our conversations, industry insiders get what we're doing.
Beautiful. Capable. Simple.
A performance bike designed for the majority of cycling enthusiasts that won't be outdated in 12 months.
We're in talks to get a test bike to the folks at Cycling Tips for a full review, so stay tuned. Checkout the full article here.
Over the weekend the BlackHeart Allroad Ti and Al bikes were named among the top road and gravel bikes at Sea Otter classic, the largest consumer bike show in the world. Road Bike Action, a leading industry outlet, featured the flagship Titanium model and new Aluminum model alongside showings from the best bike brands in the world, including Bianchi, Giant, Ridley, and an $18,000 limited edition Cervelo R5 made in collaboration with Lamborghini and Campagnolo.
The Sea Otter Classic is a bicycling and outdoor sports festival and exposition held each spring since 1991 at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California. The four-day event is considered the world's largest cycling festival, drawing nearly 10,000 professional and amateur athletes and 70,000 fans.
[The following is an automated notice from the StartEngine team].
Hello!
As you might know, BlackHeart Bike Company has exceeded its minimum funding goal. When a company reaches its minimum on StartEngine, it's about to begin withdrawing funds. If you invested in BlackHeart Bike Company be on the lookout for an email that describes more about the disbursement process.
This campaign will continue to accept investments until its indicated closing date.
Thanks for funding the future.
-StartEngine
Capitol Co-Op, a new bike and skate shop located in Oklahoma City, OK, is opening it's doors soon and will be the newest BlackHeart dealer. Helmed by Jennifer White, Jeremy Houchin, Chad Hodges & Evan Bybee, Capitol Co-Op is aiming to be a cultural center featuring unique brands and pouring coffee for the local crowd. BlackHeart will have the new Allroad Al available as a full build as well as standalone frameset, and Ti versions can be special ordered. We're excited to be a part of another independent store working to serve their local community.
BlackHeart will be formally launching the new Allroad Al bike at Sea Otter Classic April 7-10 in Monterey, CA. The Allroad Al is our newest model, designed to give customers the same experience as our flagship Allroad Ti bike, but at half the price.
The Sea Otter Classic is a “celebration of cycling”! It’s a festival for anyone who enjoys or appreciates the bicycle and outdoor adventures. Whether a cyclist or a spectator, folks of all ages can share in the excitement and camaraderie of the Sea Otter Classic. If you love the idea of being part of a cool scene with active people who all share a passion for bicycles and the outdoors—come! Sea Otter is for road, gravel and mountain bikers. It’s for kids, commuters and recreational cyclists, and, yes, the Sea Otter Classic draws the very best racers—both amateurs and pros. No other event gives you such up-close access to your cycling heroes!
With an expected 74,000 consumer attendees and 400 journalists, we'll be making a splash by showcasing our bikes on a global stage. If you attend make sure to swing by and say hi!
BlackHeart Bike Company founder Zach Lambert recently sat down with We Got To Hang Out podcast hosts Christopher Stricklen and Freya Rawlins at the company's sister bike shop Luft in Venice, CA to discuss the brand's evolution to a purpose-driven company – focusing on making cycling a more welcoming and inclusive space through a novel ambassador model.
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