Ordering, Design & Build Process
Creating a custom bike takes some time. There are a surprising number of details, and we want to make sure we get every last one dialed. This is not a process to be rushed, so please expect a few months from first contact to delivery. Below is a summary of the process to give you a better idea of what to expect.
The process starts with a phone interview to discuss your goals, riding style, frame features, budget, and component preferences. During the interview, I create a shared document which becomes the build specification for your new bike.
Based on the build specification, I create a formal cost estimate. Estimates typically do not change unless changes to the build specification are made.
I request a deposit to move the process forward and to secure a spot on my build calendar. Because I maintain a waitlist, I build in deposit order. The deposit is credited towards the final cost of your new bike. Note that the deposit is non-refundable under most circumstances.
We will work together to get the sizing information I need to design your frame. This may involve measurements of your current bikes, your body, or may require a custom fit by a third-party.
I will create a CAD drawing of your frame using the fit information and build specification. In most cases, we will revise the drawing a few times before the design is finalized.
I will contact you a week or two before I start your build. During the build, I typically share photographs (privately and on social media) to provide updates on progress.
You will be invoiced for the balance (cost estimate – deposit + changes + taxes + delivery fees) once I finish your frame, assemble your completed bike, and give it a quick test ride.
I box and ship your new bike via BikeFlights with insurance. Please note that delivery requires payment of the balance in full.
Frame & Build Kit Pricing
Frame prices range from $2700 to $3250 depending on model. See our bike detail pages for more information. Please note that prices quoted are base prices; prices for common upgrades are show below.
Build kit pricing depends greatly on manufacturer and materials, but as a general rule, you can expect to spend the following on a mid-level kit:
Shimano XT 1×12 w/ hydraulic brakes; Fox Factory fork and dropper; Cane Creek 70 headset; Thomson stem; PRO handlebar; Astral wheels; Maxxis tires; Ergon saddle; Ergon grips.
Shimano GRX800 2×11 w/ hydraulic brakes; ENVE fork; Cane Creek 70 headset; Thomson seatpost and stem; PRO handlebar; Astral wheels; Panaracer tires; Ergon saddle; Cinelli bar tape.
Shimano Ultegra 2×11 w/ hydraulic brakes; ENVE fork; Cane Creek 70 headset; Thomson seatpost and stem; PRO handlebar; Astral wheels; Continental tires; Ergon saddle; Cinelli bar tape.
C1.12 series gearbox; twist shift; forged cranks; Gates CDX sprockets and belt.
The sky is the limit with build kits. We have well-established relationships with many distributors and component manufacturers and can help you select the highest quality kit for your budget.
Payment
All prices are quoted as cash, check or cashier’s check. Credit cards and bank transfers will have a 3% and 1% processing fee added, respectively. The addition of these processing fees is a recent change in response to recent global component shortages. You can read more about these changes here.