Building Your Custom Frame

From start to finish I'll be available for all your concerns, ideas and questions. You are encouraged to be involved in as much of the process as you like, either way it is my desire for this process to be enjoyable for you and myself.

Before You Start

1. What type of riding?

The type of riding you'll want to do will determine the wheel size, tube selection, geometry, and general style of the bike.  Test ride bikes that are similar to what you want and get a sense of exactly what you want.  What bike do you like the most?  What do you like the least about your current bike(s)?  

2. Think about the drivetrain and components you'll want.

Doing this before we talk is useful.  1x11 setups, belt drives with internal gears, front and rear deraileurs, down-tube or bar end shifters...the setup you want will determine the tube selection, braze-ons and style of the build.

You'll also want to consider handlebar types, whether or not you want braze-on pump attachments, generator hub, guides to run the light wires and much more. Think fun and function.

3. Get in touch!

Once you have a good idea about the type of bike you want, get in touch! You can email or call.  You might also want to send me photos of bikes you like. I can give you a rough estimate for the project costs, a tentative timeline, and we can discuss what you want to build.

Get Started!

Projects begin with a $600 non-refundable deposit to secure place in the que.  Once this is received the process begins.

1. Provide your measurements.

I'll send you a fit sheet to fill out that goes over body measurements, riding preferences, etc...

2. Review and approve CAD drawings.

Based on your measurements, and the type of build, I will provide you with CAD drawing(s) of your frame.  This basically begins the conversation of your future frame.  Once you approve the drawings, I will order the necessary materials and begin building your frame when the the time comes.  I'll send you photos of the work in progress and answer all of your questions promptly.

3. Meanwhile...pick your colors.

You can choose to have your frame powder coated or wet painted.  Whats the difference?  Powder coating, generally speaking, is more environmentally friendly and very durable. Wet paint tends to bring out the detail better and is more conducive to elaborate paint schemes. If you are ordering a Tig welded, say mountain bike frame set, then you might opt for the powder coating method. Its my opinion that this method would withstand the abuse of debris and rocks better than wet paint.  On the other hand if you are ordering a lugged Rando frame set with contrasting panels or lugs, then wet paint is the way to go. Its more expensive but is worth it if you are wanting to achieve a multi-colored ride.  I take my frame sets to Rick at D&D Cycles in San Leandro, Ca. for wet paint projects; a great guy to work with and does excellent work!
If you are choosing powder coating, you'll want to look at the Tiger Drylac RAL color chart.  Once you have decided on the colors, send me the info and I'll order the color you chose. If you are going with wet paint, you'll need to send me a physical color sample. I want to ensure that you receive your frame set with the exact color of choice. The color of your bike is a very personal choice and I'll give you my opinion if you ask for it but the result is yours.   

5. Pay for the remainder.

Once the frame is complete with paint and frame stickers, you'll receive an invoice for the remainder of the costs. 

6. Arrange for the delivery of your frame. Build and ride.

After the frame has been painted, you can either pick it up in Santa Rosa, or I can ship it anywhere in the world.  Once received, build and enjoy!