The RTR News Blog

RANS Changing Hands

New Ownership to take over in February

According to the latest news from Hayes, Kansas, Randy Schliter has notified RANS bicycle dealers of an upcoming change of ownership, with Jerrell Nichols, of Montezuma, Kansas, taking over the RANS reins on February 2, 2015. Following is text from a letter sent to all RANS dealers announcing the change:



Dear RANS Bike Dealer,

We at RANS are proud to announce the change of ownership of RANS Bikes. The change represents an expected and eventual outcome when two thriving businesses grow. As many of you know, RANS started building bikes in 1973 in the form of recumbent trikes with sails. This grew into an expansive line of recumbent and Crankforward bikes. The addition of aircraft in 1983 brought a new strength to the bike company and our line and popularity grew.

About the new Owner:
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 most about Jerrell is his experience, enthusiasm and knowledge about our products.

I will continue to work with Jerrell in assuring the new RANS Bikes has a successful launch.  What has me excited is how well Jerrell and I work together and we are sure to create refinements and new designs that will continue the tradition of quality ride time. 

It is not without difficulty that I release the helm of the bike business, the friends I have made over the past 40  years have been true and faithful to the cause of bringing enjoyable cycling to the public. To all of you I am thankful for the business, and especially the friendships. I will remain available to you, being just a call away. No doubt I will find the time to wander the country and take in a ride, or even stop by your shop. This is the beginning of a new and exciting chapter in RANS Bikes!

The new RANS Bikes is ready for your business starting February 2. A new web site is under construction, and that should go on line in the next few weeks. Orders will be accepted through phone or email. Online ordering for dealers will be possible with the new web site along with password protected dealer pricing. 

About the New Location:
Montezuma Kansas is a small rural town of 1000 located 28 miles West of Dodge City. I have been impressed with the level of industry and strong work ethic. This is a place where old fashion values and common sense are alive and well.   The new RANS Bikes is located on Highway 56, the main road through town, in a 12,000 square foot warehouse and show room. The location will also feature bike frame fabrication. Jerrell is a master frame builder and has a capable staff to assure quality production of our U.S. made frames. The location features a large show room with most all our current, and some vintage models. If you ever venture out West, make the effort to visit the new location of RANS Bikes, I am confident the visit will be well worth your time. 

New Location:
RANS Bikes Inc.
109 West Texcoco
Montezuma Kansas
67867
Phone: 620-846-2209


Yours truly,
Randy Schlitter CEO of RANS Designs Inc.