A Bullitt Story from Portland, Oregon
Bullitteers around the world are rewriting what a cargo bike can be.
Cody Ellis from Portland, Oregon, shares the story of Chap’s Allumi-Steed — a Raw Bullitt, a best friend in the front, and countless miles of adventure.
“My name is Cody Ellis. I live in Portland, Oregon, USA. My dog and I have an acoustic Raw Bullitt. The Bullitt is named Chap's Allumi-Steed, because Chap is the dog and that is his bike. We spend every day we can pedaling around the city — on pavement, singletrack, alleyways, and dirt trails. We have a good variety of surfaces and places to ride out here in Portland.
I am incredibly grateful to our friend Zack, the builder of Chap's bike, and to Larry vs Harry. Having this bike has been incredibly transformative for Chap and me. It has allowed us to travel and connect with our community. Before, we were both homebodies, surfing our couch together. Now we wait for the work week to end so we can get out and ride.
We've made so many connections and friends through bikes. It has been so special sharing this experience with Chap. Having him in the front is key. He likes to lead in that way. He rarely sits down and is always wagging his tail, looking left and right. Chap enjoys all the smells and sounds as we rip along. Every time he turns back to look at me, he's got the biggest smile.
We recently did our first bikepack — a century out and back into the forests northwest of Portland. It was a good test for both of us. We had Zack with us, who was a great help. He had done the route a few times. The majority of our route was away from cars. This gave Chap ample time out of the box. He loves running along with the bikes.
We're excited for the summer. Pedalpalooza begins in June — a summer-long event organising bike rides every day. We'll be catching as many as we can. We're looking forward to our friends' Carry S**t Olympics rides, By the Spice Lunch ride, Heavy Bike Hill Climb, and NOISE ride.
I am planning a ride to celebrate Chap's ninth birthday. We're calling it Chap’ll Ramble — a mixed gravel and paced tour around the city to our favourite bakery, coffee, and bike shops.”
Thanks to Cody, Chap, and Zack for reminding us what it's all about: movement, connection, and pure joy.
We'll be cheering for you both at Pedalpalooza and beyond.
Thanks for the ride, Cody. And happy early birthday to you, Chap.
