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Shamala Kittane From India to Portland, Building a Future on Two Wheels

· 3 min read
Murali
Murali
maintainer

Shamala Kittane’s journey from India to Portland is a story of passion, grit, and a vision for a sustainable future. Growing up in India, Shamala witnessed the power of cycles as an affordable and eco-friendly mode of transport. Yet, she also saw how their potential often remained untapped, especially in urban logistics and community mobility. This realization inspired her to delve deeper into the world of bicycles and set her on a path that would take her halfway around the globe to Portland, Oregon—a hub for cycling innovation.

Learning the Art of Cycle Building​

Shamala's passion led her to join a Portland-based non-profit dedicated to promoting sustainable transport. Here, she immersed herself in the art and science of building bicycles, particularly cargo cycles designed for heavy loads and urban utility. She learned:

  • Frame Design: The principles of geometry, curve radius, and weight distribution for optimal balance and efficiency.
  • Material Science: Selecting lightweight yet durable materials to create frames capable of handling substantial loads without compromising maneuverability.
  • Mechanics: The intricate workings of gears, brakes, and drivetrain systems, ensuring her designs were both practical and reliable.

Her time in Portland wasn’t just about technical skills; it was about understanding the deeper role of bicycles in fostering community, reducing carbon footprints, and transforming urban landscapes.

Designing the Cargo Cycle​

With her newfound expertise, Shamala designed and built her first cargo cycle—a sturdy, elegant model capable of carrying significant loads while navigating narrow streets and steep inclines. Her design was a hit among local communities and small businesses in Portland, who used it for deliveries, waste collection, and even mobile workshops.

A Vision Beyond Borders​

Shamala's work in Portland wasn’t just about creating a product; it was about building a movement. She collaborated on projects that encouraged community involvement in sustainable transport, hosting workshops to teach others about the benefits of cycling and the skills required to build their own bikes.

Her story has since inspired a wave of enthusiasm for cycling in both Portland and her home country of India. Shamala envisions bringing cargo cycle designs to Indian cities, adapting them to local needs like street vending, waste management, and rural transportation.

Bridging Two Worlds​

Shamala Kittane’s journey symbolizes the intersection of global learning and local impact. By combining traditional Indian ingenuity with cutting-edge bicycle design from Portland, she’s crafting a future where cycles do more than move people—they empower communities.

In an era of increasing urban congestion and environmental challenges, Shamala’s work is a reminder that innovation on two wheels can lead to a greener, more connected world.