Pilen began somewhat humbly as a husband-wife team refurbishing old bikes and tractors and selling them at flea markets and squares in Sweden. In 1998 Martin and Louise made the jump to manufacturing bikes (out of a barn on the family farm, no less). They have since blossomed into a factory in Southern Sweden with a small and highly-skilled team of builders and designers that builds about 2,000 bikes a year. For the past 20 years, Pilen has produced a bike that artfully combines form and function. Pilen bicycles are about Love – of bicycle riding, of the craftsmanship, of the materials, and of the people who own them.

The Pilen GT frame is built from strong but light chromoly steel and loaded with features that are after-market add-ons on most American bikes. The GT Step Through comes in only one frame size, measured at 57cm (this will fit a range of heights, roughly 5'7" to 5'11"). At first glance, riders often notice the similarity of the bike's geometry to classic path racers from decades past. Compared to the Pilen GT's sibling, the Pilen Lyx, the GT is indeed sportier, with a less upright riding position, narrower (700x40) Schwalbe tires, and a lighter rear end.

Stainless steel fenders come standard to keep the rider dry and clean. A Shimano Nexus 7 speed internal gear hub provides a wide range of gears to choose from in a system that's lower maintenance. A pair of Shimano roller brakes make for low-maintenance, dependable stopping power in all weather conditions. A Shimano dynamo hub powers the front LED light and a rear battery-powered LED light comes attached to the rear fender.

The Pilen GT comes standard with a synthetic leather saddle and a polished silver rear rack with a spring clamp. Lastly, the beautiful paint work on the Pilen really sets it in a category above. Its durability, luster, and range of color choices gives consumers a truly individualized ride.