Established in 2017, returning exhibitor pratt Frameworks is a Rhode Island based bicycle company created by designer / maker Max Pratt. pratt Frameworks specializes in high performance steel bicycles for fixed-crit / velodrome racing, as well as cyclocross and road racing. Max Pratt is a framebuilder, metal fabricator, and furniture designer who studied at the Rhode Island School of Design. He designs furniture and bicycles with the same values in mind; simplicity, function, and elegance are at the heart of every pratt frame. pratt Frameworks designs each bike to be simple, elegant, and functional. Says Max, “We shed all unnecessary elements, to reveal a beautiful form and high performance bicycle hiding below. Our new line, including the basic track, basic road, and basic CX framesets, is an effort to simplify not only the design of a bicycle, but the process of having a custom fit. We believe that ordering a custom bike should be fun, simple, and fast. Each frame is made for its rider, and will last them for lifetimes to come.”
PBE What did you do before starting pratt Frameworks?
MP I make custom and contract furniture and woodwork, as well as contract and custom metal fabrication. A degree in furniture design from the Rhode Island School of Design gave me the skills, eye, and mind to get where I am today.
PBE How did you choose your location- or did it choose you?
MP I grew up in New England, but after school, Providence seemed like the place to be for me. With Brian Chapman nearby and a strong cycling community, the neighborhood my shop is in has a great history and a wealth of resources and good people.
PBE What’s the derivation of your company name?
MP My last name, Pratt, is the origin of our name. My family used to be under the name Rapaport, but my grandparents changed that name after coming to the US.
PBE What’s your favorite part of your work?
MP My favorite part of making bicycles is the look on someone’s face when they get their new frame. As far as the process, definitely pressing headsets.
PBE What’s your favorite ride/route/destination?
MP My shop is around the corner from India Point Park in Providence, which is the start of the East Bay Bike Path. This takes a rider from downtown Providence to the southern coast of Rhode Island and Newport. It is a coastal bike path and is really a wonderful ride.
