PRW X Factor Raiden

25 years … you all knew I wasn’t done milking this, right? I had one last collab up my sleeve, and it just made good sense it was with Factor. I’ve often spoken of my relationship with the amazing folks behind some of the most iconic bikes of today. A small brand that has continuously pushed engineering and branding to a whole new level. 

I first had the idea of an anniversary bike well before our 25th, but wasn’t sure how to approach it and also who to do it with. I am lucky enough to have brands that we have partnered with that I consider family. But Factor is special to me in many ways, so it had to be them that I pitched it to. I had the idea of a track bike. They didn't really get it at first, questioning why not a road or gravel bike, since that’s what sells and speaks to the majority of consumers? I gave them a pitch about our new world-class track and what it means to a city that has developed some of the top Track Racers in the country. It didn’t take much convincing, and the Raiden project was born. It helped that everyone at Factor was behind the project and excited to get it off the ground.

I reached out to Jay Gundzik, Creative Director for Factor bikes, the mind behind some of the most beautiful paint designs in the modern peloton. Bit of a gamble, I knew, as it was when Factor was about to launch the One, so yeah, he was busy. I gave my idea of a custom PRW edition Raiden, and in classic Jay fashion, his response was, “I’m in, you’re family, and I want to come to Edmonton to launch it.” Who could say no to that? Jay asked for direction, but in my mind, you can’t tell an artist what you want. I want his take on it, and he did not disappoint. There were no drafts sent to me or colour matching on my end.  What I saw was the final product, and it was  perfect. 

The concept in his words:

Fire on the Track 

"On the track, hesitation shows. That’s why the PRW25 Raiden burns in red and orange — the colours of instinct, speed, and commitment. Set against raw carbon, it reflects 25 years of Pedalhead Road Works: strength at the core, fire when it counts." - Jay Gundzik, Global Creative Director / Factor Bikes.

True to his promise, Jay came to Edmonton on a balmy -20 February day and launched the final product to a loyal group of PRW fans. Throughout his presentation, he talked about his process. Something that always resonates with me, is how someone gets to the final product, from idea to execution. I know it’s my bike, but I learned so much about how it came together and that it’s more than just a paint job. It’s as unique as the story I try to tell about PRW, and that’s what makes it so special. Honoured to be able to share this with you, and to anyone who decides to build one, you will own a piece of cycling history, that in my mind, is truly special. 

Available now in limited quantities.