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Ordering a Frame -
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to visit?
Ideally yes, Dave can gain a much better picture of what you need if he can see you
"in the flesh," sitting on your existing bike. However, if a visit is not
possible he can work from measurements and photos.
Why do I need to bring my bike?
By looking at you sitting on a bike you know and discussing it with you, Dave can form a
much better idea of what will suit your riding style. By looking at your bike he can see
pressure and wear points that indicate the way you are sitting on your bike, and thus
gauge any adjustments that need to be made to your overall position.
Do I need to make an appointment?
Yes, Dave needs to know you are coming so that he can be here! Please do not just turn up
'on spec' as you might have a wasted journey.
Are you open at weekends?
Dave will try to accommodate requests to fit in with your commitments. He is usually
available on a Saturday, but you must make an appointment in advance.
What is the difference between 'Made to
Measure' and 'Custom'?
Dave's definitions of the two terms are his! Other builders may use
different terminology but this is Dave's interpretation - Dave's 'Made to Measure' frames
start life as a standard design evolved over the years as fitting 'most of the people most
of the time.' He will then alter the seat angle, seat tube length and top tube length to
make it fit you. A 'Custom' frame, on the other hand, starts life as a blank sheet of
paper. Dave will determine all of the dimensions to your requirements, although he will
not do anything that he considers dangerous. Some customers want to be involved in the
design process to a fine degree, others do not!
What kind of tubes can I have?
Dave will discuss the choice of tubes to use in every case and recommend
appropriate material. He uses predominately Reynolds tubes, but others are available. If
discussion reveals an alternative would be better, then it can usually be obtained. Do not
think along the lines "853 is best therefore that is what I want." It may not be
best for your particular needs.
How much detail can I specify?
As much as you want! Custom frames are just that, Dave starts with a blank sheet of paper
and any or all of the detail is specifiable. Any details not specified at the time of
ordering are left to Dave's discretion. If you want your cable guides in a certain
position tell Dave. Do not assume that he will put them where you want them just because
you "saw it in a photograph." If you want a particular fork crown, say so, and
if possible, it will be done. It may cost slightly more, but you will get exactly what you
want. Please do not assume, check and ask.
Can I have a headset and/or bottom bracket
fitted?
Yes, as long as you let us know well in advance that you want one. Charges
are as per our current price list. If you want a bottom bracket we need to know the exact
spec., axle length, chainset type and model. Saying "Fit a Shimano bottom
bracket" is not enough!
Can you build me a complete bike?
Yes. As each bike is built to order, we can only give a price against a definite spec.
When comparing prices, please remember that building up the bike is included in any price
quoted. (This takes approx. 4 hours.)
How long will my order take?
Custom framebuilding is not an exact science. Dave will do his best to give you a good
estimate, but it is only an estimate. The waiting time varies with the number of orders in
front of yours. Each frame is built when it reaches the top of the pile! Please do not
ring every week asking "How is my frame doing?" It is either still in the pile,
or it is getting built!
Do I have to pay a deposit?
Yes. A non-refundable deposit of £250 is required for all frame orders, £500 for
complete bikes. This must be paid by cheque, cash or bank transfer. Sorry, we do not take
cards.
When do I have to pay the balance?
We have to have received the balance in cleared funds before collection or despatch of
your frame. (Please remember we do not take cards)
Can I collect my frame/bike when it is ready?
Yes, but you need to make an appointment first. In the case of complete bikes it is worth
collecting in person so that Dave can set your position up, and you can go for a test
ride.
Do you build wheels?
Yes.
What warranty do you offer?
Materials and workmanship for the life of the frame to the original
purchaser. This does not include:
- crash damage
- wear & tear
- corrosion caused by inadequate maintenance
In the unlikely event that you have a problem with your
frameset please talk to us first. Any work carried out to the frame by a third party
invalidates the warranty.
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