Why I, Daniel Russell-Einhorn, Build Custom Bikes That Reflect Charleston’s Spirit

Hey fellow cycling enthusiasts,


I’m Daniel Russell-Einhorn — bike builder, cyclist, and founder of Daniel’s Custom Cycles here in Charleston, South Carolina. If you’ve ever wondered why someone would open a custom bicycle shop instead of a traditional retail storefront… here’s my story and why it might resonate with you, especially if you’re all about riding with purpose.




🚴‍♂️ From College Rides to Custom Frames​


My love for biking started during my college years at the College of Charleston. What began as a practical way to get to class soon turned into something deeper — riding became my therapy, my form of self-expression, and eventually, my calling.


When I couldn’t find bikes that truly matched my riding style or Charleston’s unique terrain, I decided to build them myself. And that’s how Daniel’s Custom Cycles was born.




🔧 Why Custom Bikes? Why Not Retail?​


Let’s face it — mass-produced bikes have their place. But they’ll never capture the feel of something that’s handmade and made-for-you.


When I build a bike, I consider:


  • Where you ride (city, beach, trails)
  • How you want to feel on the bike (relaxed? agile? speedy?)
  • Your personal style — minimal, bold, or somewhere in between
  • How the Charleston climate and geography impact materials and design

This isn’t about luxury. It’s about creating bikes that actually make riding better.




🌆 Charleston Shapes Every Bike I Build​


Living and working in Charleston gives me a special lens. It’s a city where history meets energy, where cobblestone streets meet coastal winds. The bikes I build are made to flow with the city — from navigating tight alleyways to cruising the Battery at sunrise.


Whether you’re a downtown commuter or a weekend beach explorer, I design bikes that suit this lifestyle.




👨‍🔧 What Makes Daniel’s Custom Cycles Different?​


At big-box shops, you pick a bike off the rack. At my shop, we build your bike from scratch — together.


Here’s how I approach every custom build:


  1. Personal Consultation – I ask the questions most shops won’t. What inspires you? What terrain do you hate? Do you prefer to stand out or blend in?
  2. Custom Design – Geometry, frame material, components — all chosen with your input.
  3. Hands-On Craftsmanship – Every weld, adjustment, and finish is done by hand in my Charleston shop.
  4. Test Rides & Fitting – We make sure your bike fits you, not a generic size chart.
  5. Ongoing Support – I stay connected with my customers. If something needs tweaking down the road, I’ve got you.



🚴‍♀️ Building Bikes & a Biking Community​


My shop isn’t just about custom bikes — it’s a space for Charleston cyclists to connect. We regularly host:


  • Group rides through downtown and the coast
  • Bike maintenance workshops
  • Local advocacy to improve bike-friendly infrastructure in the city

Cycling should be for everyone. That’s the mission.




📍 Want to Build Your Own Custom Ride?​


If you’re in Charleston, SC and tired of bikes that don’t quite fit your needs or style, come say hi. I’d love to hear your story, sketch some ideas, and create something you’ll be proud to ride for years.


✅ Custom commuter bikes
✅ Urban, trail, and beach builds
✅ Full-service bike repair & support
✅ Designed and built by Daniel Russell-Einhorn


Visit Daniel’s Custom Cycles — and yes, I’m the guy turning the wrenches out back.
 
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