5 Questions for Those Who Make

In 25 words or less describe who you are, where you’re located and what you make.

My name is Jude Kirstein of Sugar Wheel Works. I live and work in Portland, Or and I make handmade bicycle wheels.

What made you want to be a maker?

I wanted to be a maker because I have seen so many things moving towards proprietary systems. There aren’t as many people concerned about sustainability and repairability. Wheels had gone the way of disposable systems. I also wanted a career path that allowed me to work with my hands. Sometimes, it’s challenging working in front of a stand for the duration of the day but most days I really like what I do. I primarily true using sound so there’s plenty of room for both innovation and skill and that’s what’s great about what I get to do. 

Why should people support your business/products?

It’s really because we care. We care to a fault—almost obsessively. We care about getting the build right as well as the design. If my name is going on it then it has to be perfect.

Favorite product that you make?

I like designing wheels of all types, and I especially love making touring wheels!  

List five of your favorite tools.

1. DT Swiss Spokey wrench (made in Switzerland)
2. Morizumi spoke cutter (made in Japan)
3. Scribe (made in USA)
4. Tensionmeter calibration device (made custom for me in Portland) 
5. Coffee mug (made in Portland)

(photographs from Sugar Wheel Works)