Backcountry Pilot • Rans sells Bicycle Division; More emphasis on Planes ?

Rans sells Bicycle Division; More emphasis on Planes ?

Sometimes the most fun way to get into the backcountry, Part 103 Ultralights and Light Sport Aircraft have their own considerations.
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Fri Jan 30, 2015 9:43 am

Rans sells Bicycle Division; More emphasis on Planes ?

I just saw on the Facebook page of Rans that their bicycle division has been sold. Heretofore, Rans has been a major manufacturer of niche high end bicycles and pretty cool light aircraft and aircraft kits.

I am wondering if this will allow them to place more emphasis on their now sole remaining aircraft division. I'd love to see a Rans version of the Bearhawk Patrol or Bearhawk 4Place in super quick build form. I have never built a kit, and perhaps never will #-o , but I have heard nothing but kudos for the way their latest Raven S20 quick build kit slams together.

Any BCP Rans experts here have any thoughts of what Randy Schlitter (CEO) might have in mind for the company's future ?

Here is an excerpt from their Facebook page:
Source: https://www.facebook.com/pages/RANS-Designs-Inc/409437375816533
RANS Designs, Inc
January 26 at 12:23pm ·

The big news today is we have sold RANS Bikes and it is moving to a new location. For those concerned about the element my involvement brings to the success of RANS Bikes, relax. I will still have plenty of skin in the game. I love cycling, and the best thing for a business sometimes is to let the young take the reins, while the old man gets to watch, learn, and make keen observations...so now presenting.........

I would like to introduce you to the new owner: Jerrell Nichols of Montezuma Kansas. Jerrell has been a long time dealer for RANS Bikes and is not only a highly skilled cyclist, mechanic and craftsmen, he is one of the most fair and honest businessmen I have ever dealt with. You can expect prompt, concise and accurate service. I am confident you will discover doing business with Jerrell to be a rewarding experience. What you will enjoy about Jerrell is his experience, enthusiasm and knowledge about our products.
Rans S20 Raven Aircraft
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Denali offline
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Fri Jan 30, 2015 1:05 pm

Re: Rans sells Bicycle Division; More emphasis on Planes ?

Interesting news. As a RANS bike owner I hope this is a good move for all involved. They make awesome bikes.
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Fri Jan 30, 2015 10:23 pm

Re: Rans sells Bicycle Division; More emphasis on Planes ?

No special inside knowledge here, but if I had to guess I'd say it was a simplification move. Randy isn't a kid anymore! I can see him being happy with concentrating on what he has going on with the aircraft and not spreading himself too thin? the aircraft side has been busy, hey just released the latest version of the S7-S, NOT a new model, just another in a decades long series of tweaking and fine tuning. I hear it has a S-20 wing? (inside joke) Speaking of which, the S-20 sure seems to have created a favorable buzz, even if the seats are in the wrong place.ha ha... I would be a little surprised if there was a huge shakeup airplane wise, more the steady hand on the company helm (?) like years past, I'd settle for that. I really like the stability of RANS.
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