Custom carbon?

[sfo1]

Anyone doing reputable (US) custom carbon geo under $4k?

Seems like a tall task these days. Nothing crazy; just need stiff stack. Off the shelf options are very limited and $$$.

It is Hoiday sale time.....

[Hawker]

You could look into John Slawta at Land Shark. His frames are well known and his work excellent. However, $4K may be just a tad less than where he starts...but a personal phone call is the way to go.

[Andy sti]

Allied does a custom model I think. Not sure on price through.

[Kirk007]

Hampsten is around $4200. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181129/ec037fe914e7e30c7414cd5690be92f7.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181129/aea0eaba4009672b5a859c5777eeb157.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181129/1636cd569ffee2cfc9d63cd1e36ea93a.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

[Ken Robb]

Pardon my ignorance but what is a "stiff stack"?

[seedster2]

As mentioned, Allied does custom here in the US. Also, I believe there is argonaut, but i believe they command a higher pricepoint.

[MattTuck]

Anymore info on that particular hampsten? .Ybe my phone in low light is messing with the colors. Looks mint green with pearl blue decals. Super cool.

[sfo1]

My better half refers to it as a stiff head tube /. Front end.

Pardon my ignorance but what is a "stiff stack"?

Argo is $7k+. Alchemy is $5k. I’ll look at Allied.

As mentioned, Allied does custom here in the US. Also, I believe there is argonaut, but i believe they command a higher pricepoint.

[makoti]

Crumpton SL Road. $5300. A bit higher, but very nice

[Kirk007]

Anymore info on that particular hampsten? .Ybe my phone in low light is messing with the colors. Looks mint green with pearl blue decals. Super cool.

Hey Matt,

It's a very light blue, paint after the Gaulzetti embrocation bikes from a few years back with darker pearl decals. I asked Steve to work from my Peg Marcelo for design but dial it back a little to the stage race, all day don't have to think about it feel of a C50 (how's that for a tall order!). He pretty much nailed it.

[R3awak3n]

Wondering why custom carbon is so expensive, is it that much labor than say a TI bike? Or are you paying for somewhat exclusivity since there is not a lot of carbon builders in the US?

[R3awak3n]

Hey Matt,

It's a very light blue, paint after the Gaulzetti embrocation bikes from a few years back with darker pearl decals. I asked Steve to work from my Peg Marcelo for design but dial it back a little to the stage race, all day don't have to think about it feel of a C50 (how's that for a tall order!). He pretty much nailed it.

Talking about Gaulzetti.... he does a carbon bike now as well, custom if irc

[ergott]

My better half refers to it as a stiff head tube /. Front end.


So are you requesting custom geometry or carbon layup for a stiffer bike? or both?

[sjbraun]

Another frame from Hampsten, Maglia Rosa. I asked Steve to match the contact points of my Hampsten Strada Bianca with the geometry of a Look 585.
He did. The bike rides beautifully, handles well, and rides very smoothly over Tucson's deteriorating roads. Price is in your range.

[soulspinner]

Nice Hampsten frame

[AngryScientist]

that is a lovely color there. very classic looking and fits well on the carbon frame. i like it!

[Tim Porter]

Piling on for Hampsten carbon. In your price range:

http://i1285.photobucket.com/albums/a583/porterphoto1/IMG_2245_zpscmrotwfo.jpg

[prototoast]

If you have a week, and you want to build it yourself, the Bohemian framebuilding class is under 4k http://www.framebuildingschool.com/.

Raw materials are expensive for carbon. Operating on a small scale, it costs me $750-1000 just in materials for each frame I make, and probably 30-50 hours. Now, I'm just a hobby builder so someone better than could get both the price and speed, but that's 2-3x the cost of basic steel frame materials, and 50% more than basic titanium, and is more labor intensive than a straight TIG welded frame.

But if you don't want to go the path I did and learn to build your own frames, Montenegro is another option coming in under 4k: http://www.montenegromfg.com/bikes/

[cderalow]

Doesnt calfee do custom geometry on some of their models?

[Kirk007]

Hampsten's include headset in the price so back out that cost and you are right at 4k for frame/fork.

[oldpotatoe]

Doesnt calfee do custom geometry on some of their models?

https://calfeedesign.com/frame-pricing/

yup..not sure if they'll do a Luna custom but $750 and >$4k..

[sfo1]

Geo, layup in the front end would up to the builder. But, in my experience, many larger bikes loose stiffness in the front as the length of the tube increases. Some modern off the shelf frame accommodate by optimizing tubes/junctions as sizes go up, but many do not. I'm sure a good builder would know what to do.





So are you requesting custom geometry or carbon layup for a stiffer bike? or both?

[sfo1]

Looks interesting. I'd love to build a bike some day.

If you have a week, and you want to build it yourself, the Bohemian framebuilding class is under 4k http://www.framebuildingschool.com/.


Wow; definitely worth a call. Cali-based and the price is impressive.

Anyone have one of these frames? Would love some feedback before I obsess and search the interweb.

Thanks for the tip.



But if you don't want to go the path I did and learn to build your own frames, Montenegro is another option coming in under 4k: http://www.montenegromfg.com/bikes/

[ergott]

Geo, layup in the front end would up to the builder. But, in my experience, many larger bikes loose stiffness in the front as the length of the tube increases. Some modern off the shelf frame accommodate by optimizing tubes/junctions as sizes go up, but many do not. I'm sure a good builder would know what to do.

The latest Tarmacs account for size in the layups. They even have size specific forks so the larger frames get stiffer steerers.

[sfo1]

I'd buy one if it fit. 612 stack (IIRC) and I'd like 625-630 without the need to max out spacers and going +6 on the stem.

The Synapse hi mod also accounts for diff. forks and layups in size variations. The 61 was a tad heavy but none-the-less, remains on short list.

The latest Tarmacs account for size in the layups. They even have size specific forks so the larger frames get stiffer steerers.

[nmrt]

i had heard carl strong was making carbon bikes, no?

[Idris Icabod]

Looks interesting. I'd love to build a bike some day.



Wow; definitely worth a call. Cali-based and the price is impressive.



Based in Tucson, Arizona. Met him a few times, cool guy.

[EDS]

i had heard carl strong was making carbon bikes, no?

He is:

https://pursuitcycles.com/

[prototoast]

He is:

https://pursuitcycles.com/

These small-batch stock frames, and are much more than $4000. They might be amazing, but they don't meet OP's requirements.

[AngryScientist]

He is:

https://pursuitcycles.com/

...

Frame/Fork/Headset $5800

[Kirk007]

I'd buy one if it fit. 612 stack (IIRC) and I'd like 625-630 without the need to max out spacers and going +6 on the stem.

The Synapse hi mod also accounts for diff. forks and layups in size variations. The 61 was a tad heavy but none-the-less, remains on short list.

If I recall correctly my Hampsten is easily in that range (I ride a 62-63ish frame, bb center to saddle top + 84 cm and 7-8 cm drop if that helps) and its plenty stiff in the front end, and everywhere else as well).

[makoti]

Looks interesting. I'd love to build a bike some day.



Wow; definitely worth a call. Cali-based and the price is impressive.

Anyone have one of these frames? Would love some feedback before I obsess and search the interweb.

Thanks for the tip.

http://rideeatcamp.com/framebuilding-with-dave-bohm/
A day-by-day account of the steel process

https://bohemianbicycles.wordpress.com/
His blog about it. Great. Now I'm obsessed.

[sfo1]

Looks like Hampsten has upped the carbon offering with real hires/specialists.

Custom Starto is available <$4k, but March would be an optimistic delivery.

1st world problems............

[cgolvin]

Wow; definitely worth a call. Cali-based and the price is impressive.

Anyone have one of these frames? Would love some feedback before I obsess and search the interweb.

Since you quoted two separate earlier posts, I'm not sure to which your comment above applies. But if it's

http://www.montenegromfg.com/bikes/

I know Hern, he's a member of my club and I ride with him relatively frequently. Last week he showed up with a brand new model, which he explained uses a lot of new techniques versus his older one. He's done carbon repair for me and others I know, have never heard any negative feedback on it.

If you'd like a direct introduction to him send a PM and I'll connect you.

[mhespenheide]

A number of forumites can attest to Steve Hampsten's expertise as a fitter as well as a builder, so if that's something that you're interested in as well, it might be worth some extra cash for that added service.

[mhespenheide]

Since you quoted two separate earlier posts, I'm not sure to which your comment above applies. But if it's

http://www.montenegromfg.com/bikes/

I know Hern, he's a member of my club and I ride with him relatively frequently. Last week he showed up with a brand new model, which he explained uses a lot of new techniques versus his older one. He's done carbon repair for me and others I know, have never heard any negative feedback on it.

If you'd like a direct introduction to him send a PM and I'll connect you.

Custom is basically always outside my price range, but I'm fascinated by the idea that people are doing custom carbon here in the USA, and here in LA. I kind of wish I could stop in their workshop at some point just to be a bike nerd.

[rnhood]

I'd buy one if it fit. 612 stack (IIRC) and I'd like 625-630 without the need to max out spacers and going +6 on the stem.

The Synapse hi mod also accounts for diff. forks and layups in size variations. The 61 was a tad heavy but none-the-less, remains on short list.


I would think that you can get your stack merely by changing the stem shims. That is one of the neat things about the Specialized stem.

And you are not going to buy a better bike than the Tarmac. Just one of those things that isn't going to happen. It's doubtful a 61 will be found in some dealer's stock but, their demo van should have one, and the schedule is posted on the Spec website. Test riding is highly recommended. You want to know what you are buying.

[cgolvin]

Custom is basically always outside my price range, but I'm fascinated by the idea that people are doing custom carbon here in the USA, and here in LA. I kind of wish I could stop in their workshop at some point just to be a bike nerd.


Marc, he's a very nice guy and I bet he'd welcome a workshop visitor.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[sfo1]

I rode a 61. Nice bike. I don't think I can get bars high enough.

Assuming 10mm hs cap, 20mm spacers and a 100mm 0 degree stem I'd still be 6mm short on height, but the reach would be doable.

I'd like to avoid the 0 to + stems, and by the looks of it the Tarmac comes with a -6. Not sure if that stem is adjustable.

Seems like the disc pro price dropped to $6700. I think it was $7k over the summer?


I would think that you can get your stack merely by changing the stem shims. That is one of the neat things about the Specialized stem.

And you are not going to buy a better bike than the Tarmac. Just one of those things that isn't going to happen. It's doubtful a 61 will be found in some dealer's stock but, their demo van should have one, and the schedule is posted on the Spec website. Test riding is highly recommended. You want to know what you are buying.

[rnhood]

If you need a stack that high, then consider the Roubaix. It is equally as excellent. Giant Defy is another good option. Same for that Cannondale Synapse.

If you have to go custom for aesthetic or vanity reasons, be sure it comes with a guarantee that it will not exhibit front end wobble on a fast descent. That is an unacceptable characteristic, and should warrant the return of the bike. You need a properly designed and built bike, especially in the larger sizes since they can typically have more flex - all things equal. Hence the Specialized recommendation. I know it doesn't wobble.

[m4rk540]

I know Hern, he's a member of my club and I ride with him relatively frequently. Last week he showed up with a brand new model, which he explained uses a lot of new techniques versus his older one. He's done carbon repair for me and others I know, have never heard any negative feedback on it.



You're in MASH SF? :p

Didn't Hern start at Predator? They were building interesting yet rough CF bikes a few years back.

[prototoast]

If you have to go custom for aesthetic or vanity reasons, be sure it comes with a guarantee that it will not exhibit front end wobble on a fast descent. That is an unacceptable characteristic, and should warrant the return of the bike. You need a properly designed and built bike, especially in the larger sizes since they can typically have more flex - all things equal. Hence the Specialized recommendation. I know it doesn't wobble.

Where did this come from? Do you have some knowledge of chronic speed wobble on custom carbon frames?

[sfo1]

Thanks for the tip.

Roubaix is likely the ugliest bike on the road (IMO, of course); snack box, kooky seatpost and obsolete Cannondale head shock gizmo. I rode the hi mod Synapse and it will fit my gangly needs but it just didn't have much road feedback or get up & go. I am comparing to a TCR Advanced SL so maybe not fair.

If you need a stack that high, then consider the Roubaix. It is equally as excellent. Giant Defy is another good option. Same for that Cannondale Synapse

[owly]

Geo, layup in the front end would up to the builder. But, in my experience, many larger bikes loose stiffness in the front as the length of the tube increases. Some modern off the shelf frame accommodate by optimizing tubes/junctions as sizes go up, but many do not. I'm sure a good builder would know what to do.

Mourenx69 frameset in XXL is 631mm stack.

Reviews on those frames mention rather stiff at the front with some compliance in the rear.

[sfo1]

That model is out of production. I think the Merckx brand lost its way under Ridley ownership. Hopefully, now that they are back in WT, they will reinvest into the product.

Such a great brand name.



Mourenx69 frameset in XXL is 631mm stack.

Reviews on those frames mention rather stiff at the front with some compliance in the rear.

[woodworker]

Where did this come from? Do you have some knowledge of chronic speed wobble on custom carbon frames?

Leonard Zinn, who is pretty tall and makes bikes for taller cyclists (and also writes the Technical FAQ column at Velonews), talks about this during the podcast below on frame geometry. It's a problem for taller riders, apparently (I'm not one), so he reinforces the headtube and takes certain other measures to account for it. The podcast is a good listen in terms of frame geometry issues.

https://www.velonews.com/2018/10/bikes-and-tech/fast-talk-podcast-trail-rake-and-flop-bike-design-with-lennard-zinn_480109

Greg.

[prototoast]

Leonard Zinn, who is pretty tall and makes bikes for taller cyclists (and also writes the Technical FAQ column at Velonews), talks about this during the podcast below on frame geometry. It's a problem for taller riders, apparently (I'm not one), so he reinforces the headtube and takes certain other measures to account for it. The podcast is a good listen in terms of frame geometry issues.

https://www.velonews.com/2018/10/bikes-and-tech/fast-talk-podcast-trail-rake-and-flop-bike-design-with-lennard-zinn_480109

Greg.

Yeah, I've listened to that already, and have read lots of other articles on speed wobble after having my own issues about 10 years ago. What I can't figure out is why rnhood chose that as a particular issue to raise. Obviously no one wants speed wobble, but that certainly isn't a problem specific, or even more common, with custom carbon bikes compared to any other bike. And I've never heard of any company offering a "speed wobble guarantee".

I just found it a strange comment, and one that seemed designed to drum up fear more than anything else. There aren't that many custom carbon builders, but folks such as Mr Crumpton seem to get overwhelmingly positive reviews. In choosing any custom builder, it is important to go with somebody you trust to do a good job, and to single out the one issue of speed wobble, un-prompted, seemed to imply that was a common concern he should have with a custom carbon build, and I wanted to know if he had any evidence to support his concern.

[rnhood]

Yeah, I've listened to that already, and have read lots of other articles on speed wobble after having my own issues about 10 years ago. What I can't figure out is why rnhood chose that as a particular issue to raise. Obviously no one wants speed wobble, but that certainly isn't a problem specific, or even more common, with custom carbon bikes compared to any other bike. And I've never heard of any company offering a "speed wobble guarantee".

I just found it a strange comment, and one that seemed designed to drum up fear more than anything else. There aren't that many custom carbon builders, but folks such as Mr Crumpton seem to get overwhelmingly positive reviews. In choosing any custom builder, it is important to go with somebody you trust to do a good job, and to single out the one issue of speed wobble, un-prompted, seemed to imply that was a common concern he should have with a custom carbon build, and I wanted to know if he had any evidence to support his concern.

No, I am no aware of custom carbon builders having a speed wobble issue other than Calfee (and he promptly resolved it) so, there should be no problem getting a guarantee (or some type assurance) from them. I do know that larger frames in general, have been more susceptible to this unsafe handling phenomena. I have experienced it, I know other people that have experienced it, and it seems steel bikes are far more susceptible - larger ones in particular. If I was spending big bucks on a custom frame - carbon or metal - I would want assurance that it is not going to happen. The next person may not have any issue with slowing down and/or clamping the top tube with his knees. But that is not my preference. I want a bike that does not do it, and fortunately I have one - an S-works Tarmac.

If I only rode flat terrain, Florida for instance, I may not care. But that is not the case with my riding.

The point here, is that I believe or would want some type assurance that speed wobble on a fast descent isn't going to happen. In other words, if I am to pay thousands of dollars for a high zoot bike, it better damn well behave like a high zoot bike otherwise, I want my money back.

Your mileage may vary.

[cgolvin]

You're in MASH SF? :p

I'm sure there's a very funny joke there that I'm not getting


Didn't Hern start at Predator? They were building interesting yet rough CF bikes a few years back.


Very possible but I only met him down here, someone recommended him to repair the BB shell on my Pina, he did a nice job.


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[m4rk540]

I'm sure there's a very funny joke there that I'm not getting





Very possible but I only met him down here, someone recommended him to repair the BB shell on my Pina, he did a nice job.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

If we're talking about Hernando Montenegro, I'm only aware of what's been related by my former elite BMX and MTB associates. There's a great video out there where he does a ride on a track bike with his BMX bike strapped to his back. He proceeds to rip some rad BMX freestyle at a park. At that time I think he was the only non-SF member of MASH.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNCPEzdZs5s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTEWIiFPDN4

https://www.benscycle.com/cinelli-mash-bolt-20-track-frameset/track_frame_set_cinelli_mashbolt_163/product

I guess Predator moved from Santa Monica to Nashville.

[cgolvin]

If we're talking about Hernando Montenegro,


That's him. I have seen a video of him doing a fixie race around Griffith Park with some quality braking skills. Good descender in my experience as well


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Kirk007]

I too find this comment a bit contrary to my experience.

I ride big bikes and I have experienced speed wobble in the past with a couple bikes - particularly if I loaded up the bars with a bag or unbalanced weight on some bikes. But I'm betting most speed wooble has as much or more to do with rider conduct or other factors.

If everything else was ruled out I can't imagine a responsible custom builder not addressing it. For the record, I can ride my Hampsten carbon, Kirk Steel, Sachs steel, Spectrum ti, 333Fab steel - all 60+ frames, all custom - downhill no handed on a bumpy road at 35+ mph without even a hint of wobble or instability.

No, I am no aware of custom carbon builders having a speed wobble issue other than Calfee (and he promptly resolved it) so, there should be no problem getting a guarantee (or some type assurance) from them. I do know that larger frames in general, have been more susceptible to this unsafe handling phenomena. I have experienced it, I know other people that have experienced it, and it seems steel bikes are far more susceptible - larger ones in particular. If I was spending big bucks on a custom frame - carbon or metal - I would want assurance that it is not going to happen. The next person may not have any issue with slowing down and/or clamping the top tube with his knees. But that is not my preference. I want a bike that does not do it, and fortunately I have one - an S-works Tarmac.

If I only rode flat terrain, Florida for instance, I may not care. But that is not the case with my riding.

The point here, is that I believe or would want some type assurance that speed wobble on a fast descent isn't going to happen. In other words, if I am to pay thousands of dollars for a high zoot bike, it better damn well behave like a high zoot bike otherwise, I want my money back.

Your mileage may vary.

[doomridesout]

I have no idea how much they cost but I'd look hard at McGovern Cycles. And when you send him an email and find out what they cost, post it here!

[sfo1]

Semi close is nice considering I drive to Tahoe often. Like this bike but really question the rear brake mount and routing. There must be a reason.

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/569ac7f67086d768fdee7d93/t/5a98e3bd652dea576a73665e/1519969219790/2017-NAHBS-McGovern-Disc-Road-1.jpg?format=2500w


I have no idea how much they cost but I'd look hard at McGovern Cycles. And when you send him an email and find out what they cost, post it here!

[woodworker]

Yeah, I've listened to that already, and have read lots of other articles on speed wobble after having my own issues about 10 years ago. What I can't figure out is why rnhood chose that as a particular issue to raise. Obviously no one wants speed wobble, but that certainly isn't a problem specific, or even more common, with custom carbon bikes compared to any other bike. And I've never heard of any company offering a "speed wobble guarantee".

I just found it a strange comment, and one that seemed designed to drum up fear more than anything else. There aren't that many custom carbon builders, but folks such as Mr Crumpton seem to get overwhelmingly positive reviews. In choosing any custom builder, it is important to go with somebody you trust to do a good job, and to single out the one issue of speed wobble, un-prompted, seemed to imply that was a common concern he should have with a custom carbon build, and I wanted to know if he had any evidence to support his concern.

I can't offer any insight to this question that you've posed, as to motivation.

Also, I haven't run across any comments or articles addressing whether some materials are more prone to this type of problem, especially in larger geometries. I'm guessing that any custom frame builder worth his salt and would be aware of the potential issue on larger bikes and would modify accordingly.

At a personal level, I'm 5'10 inches and ride a 54-55 effective top tube. I never had the problem on a titanium frame from Seven or a mixed carbon ti frame until a few years ago. It was on the titanium frame on a really steep descent, and my chain came off, and I shifted forward on the bike and was trying to catch it by multiple shifts. For me, it was all about my odd forward position on the bike and the speed. It never happened before or after. Just kind of dumb on my part.

I'm sure that you'll be fine. BTW, you might check out Craig Gaulzetti's bikes (all carbon Aerotack). I've seen them at his shop, and they look really nice but haven't had a chance to take one of them out for a test ride. That would be full carbon.

Good luck,

Greg.

[ergott]

Thanks for the tip.

Roubaix is likely the ugliest bike on the road (IMO, of course); snack box, kooky seatpost and obsolete Cannondale head shock gizmo. I rode the hi mod Synapse and it will fit my gangly needs but it just didn't have much road feedback or get up & go. I am comparing to a TCR Advanced SL so maybe not fair.

What about Trek Emonda in H2 geo? Should tick a lot of boxes too. I love custom carbon, but trying to be realistic with your budget.

[prototoast]

Semi close is nice considering I drive to Tahoe often. Like this bike but really question the rear brake mount and routing. There must be a reason

I believe at the time he didn't have a mold for flat mount dropouts so he used plate style, which necessitated ISO mounts. For a small builder, molds are in short supply so you do what you can. I don't think he uses those dropouts anymore, and now does flat mount brakes.

If you're ever in the East Bay and want to see more about the carbon frame building process, PM me and is be happy to show you some of what I've got.

[David Kirk]

I don't know what Mr. Crumpton charges for a bike but if I were in the market he'd be the first guy I call.

dave

[sfo1]

What about Trek Emonda in H2 geo? Should tick a lot of boxes too. I love custom carbon, but trying to be realistic with your budget.

The Trek is on the list but in my size I gotta say its 'visually challenged.'

I believe at the time he didn't have a mold for flat mount dropouts so he used plate style, which necessitated ISO mounts. For a small builder, molds are in short supply so you do what you can. I don't think he uses those dropouts anymore, and now does flat mount brakes.

If you're ever in the East Bay and want to see more about the carbon frame building process, PM me and is be happy to show you some of what I've got.

I am in SF. I will drop him a phone call today to get some info.

I don't know what Mr. Crumpton charges for a bike but if I were in the market he'd be the first guy I call.

dave

A lot. I recall it being in the Argonaut zip code. But, in reading about the suggested Hampsten line, (Crumpton) is advising on the carbon bikes.

I am test riding an Altum today. We'll see if it ticks the boxes.

[Mzilliox]

I don't know what Mr. Crumpton charges for a bike but if I were in the market he'd be the first guy I call.

dave

yup, no brainer, but he's about 1k over budget if i'm not mistaken. I need to put in a call to Mr Crumpton soon

[Kirk007]

. But, in reading about the suggested Hampsten line, (Crumpton) is advising on the carbon bikes.



Yep Steve and Peter North, formerly of Mad Fiber wheels spent a lot of time with learning about joining and wrapping the tubes.

Big differences I think are that (1) Nick has been building these frames for a long, long time so he has that experience edge and (2) Nick now produces his own tubesets to his specs whereas Hampsten (afaik) is still using Enve produced tubesets.

[Tompho]

Bastion Cycles, from Australia.

[prototoast]

Bastion Cycles, from Australia.

Are awesome looking bikes, but double what he's looking to pay.

[jmoore]

- all 60+ frames, all custom -

wow!

[jmoore]

Hot bike! Bad font choice. blarg

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/569ac7f67086d768fdee7d93/t/5a98e3bd652dea576a73665e/1519969219790/2017-NAHBS-McGovern-Disc-Road-1.jpg?format=2500w

[Clean39T]

wow!

.. Kirk007 meant "all 60cm+ bikes.." - he's been a prolific buyer, but not that prolific :eek:

[Kirk007]

.. Kirk007 meant "all 60cm+ bikes.." - he's been a prolific buyer, but not that prolific :eek:

grazie. 60 - hmmmm.

[jmoore]

.. Kirk007 meant "all 60cm+ bikes.." - he's been a prolific buyer, but not that prolific :eek:

ah. got it.



I was super impressed but also wondering where someone got the time to have 60 customs built and ridden :)

[soulspinner]

I don't know what Mr. Crumpton charges for a bike but if I were in the market he'd be the first guy I call.

dave

Ya. Saw his at NAHBS. :hello:

[sfo1]

Altum was nice but the front end didn’t seem to be very stiff. I could feet it flex out of the saddle and I am no masher.

Maybe I am resigned to think that all bikes with head tubes over 200mm allow flex, and the steerer is the main culprit. Unless the steerer is reinforced it’s going to flex (at that long of a length). My five year old TCR with a 185mm heat tube (and 15mm hs cap and 30mm spacers) is solid as a rock. No shimmy, no flex.

The Altum has a brand name but it’s just a mold frame coming out of Taiwan (which I have no issue with). Lots of similar frames coming out of Giant factory costing a lot less. Custom Parlee; ~$9k. ISYN!

Need to investigate tube to tube custom on a budget.

[prototoast]

Altum was nice but the front end didn’t seem to be very stiff. I could feet it flex out of the saddle and I am no masher.

Maybe I am resigned to think that all bikes with head tubes over 200mm allow flex, and the steerer is the main culprit. Unless the steerer is reinforced it’s going to flex (at that long of a length). My five year old TCR with a 185mm heat tube (and 15mm hs cap and 30mm spacers) is solid as a rock. No shimmy, no flex.

The Altum has a brand name but it’s just a mold frame coming out of Taiwan (which I have no issue with). Lots of similar frames coming out of Giant factory costing a lot less. Custom Parlee; ~$9k. ISYN!

Need to investigate tube to tube custom on a budget.

For a tall rider who really wants stiff, if I were building for you, I'd probably recommend a disc road build based around a Columbus or Enve gravel fork. They have about 15mm extra axle-to-crown, which will allow that much more to come off of the head tube. Plus, since they're built for gravel riding, they're made beefier than the comparable road forks. Pair that with a 44mm head tube, 2" down tube, and 1.5" sloping top tube and I'd all but guarantee you wouldn't notice any flex.

[sfo1]

Agree on the 44mm HT. There must be road disc fork with some kind of reinforced steerer or more taper.



For a tall rider who really wants stiff, if I were building for you, I'd probably recommend a disc road build based around a Columbus or Enve gravel fork. They have about 15mm extra axle-to-crown, which will allow that much more to come off of the head tube. Plus, since they're built for gravel riding, they're made beefier than the comparable road forks. Pair that with a 44mm head tube, 2" down tube, and 1.5" sloping top tube and I'd all but guarantee you wouldn't notice any flex.

[Kirk007]

Geez, I wouldn't come to that conclusion on headtube length. As was explained to me, one of the reasons Dario Pegoretti when with extended headtube/dropped top tubes on his frame is his belief that the extended headtube did a better job of supporting the steerer tube. But I'm not sure i'd put the suspicion on the steerer tube either. My Peg is over 22cm headtube with straight 1 1/8 carbon steerer on the fork and its not soft or flexy. Same for my Hampsten carbon with tapered fork, etc., etc. What about the handlebars or stem or flex in the wheels on the bikes your are testing?

I'm 6'3" 215 on an average day, former college heavy weight 8 rower, and I'm not as strong now as I was then but all my bikes have 20cm + headtubes and 300-310mm steerer tubes of various sorts - steel, carbon, tapered carbon I can't say that I've even experience noticeable flex from the headtubes or steerer. Not saying it doesn't happen but its not a given on a large bike.

I have no idea how all the factory bikes you are trying are configured but I'd give consideration that there may be more to front end flex/softness than the suspects you're keyed into.

BTW Crumpton, Hampsten and I believe Landshark are all tube to tube construction if that helps. Maybe call some of these guys up and have a chat. They're all straight shooters.

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

[hollowgram5]

So, I know Hern's work was mentioned before, and I recalled he made a rather large frame sometime this past fall, and I found some pictures of it on his Instagram feed. If memory serves, it's the biggest he's ever built.

Here's the finished product: https://www.instagram.com/p/BmW8W8hheko/

[enr1co]

BTW Crumpton, Hampsten and I believe Landshark are all tube to tube construction if that helps. Maybe call some of these guys up and have a chat. They're all straight shooters.



Can't go wrong with any of the above folks mentioned.

Tier one SMEs with fit and frames, and simply nice and good peeps :beer:

[Mzilliox]

Can't go wrong with any of the above folks mentioned.

Tier one SMEs with fit and frames, and simply nice and good peeps :beer:

dang, thats a drool worthy pair right there...

you still into that crumpton as much as when you first got it? been lusting over that frame since seeing it on Vsalon

[enr1co]

dang, thats a drool worthy pair right there...

you still into that crumpton as much as when you first got it? been lusting over that frame since seeing it on Vsalon

Thanks- yes, still brings on a smile after each ride :)

[easyE]

Hot bike! Bad font choice. blarg

Super drool. LOVE that paint!

[sfo1]

Someone mentioned Allied Alfa disc and when I previously looked at them I did not see that they offered a + HT option. That + size would work. But, only reviews I see online are more 'advertorial' that real world review.

Made in US; check.
Monococque; not tube to tube, OK w/that. Check
Decent $ for F&F. Check

Anyone ride one or any intel?



Can't go wrong with any of the above folks mentioned.

Tier one SMEs with fit and frames, and simply nice and good peeps :beer:

[metalheart]

Bill Holland HC, custom carbon, tubes tuned to your ride preference

[sfo1]

Frame looks very C64'ish. Probably better........

Bill Holland HC, custom carbon, tubes tuned to your ride preference

[Tompho]

Are awesome looking bikes, but double what he's looking to pay.
They are not cheap, but at least for me, in a Carbon Custom Frame I will make an effort to get a Bastion.

[Tompho]

1697970930

[Mzilliox]

1697970930

i can see why, thats a hottie right there

[Dino Suegiù]

The Crumptons and Hollands posted here are especially beautiful, to me.
But I guess over the $4000 stated budget?

Sarto (and maybe Billato, etc., but neither are US) make some of their models for under $4000, but the Crumptons are really special I think. His carbon expertise and history would definitely be worth a premium, if I were shopping.

[sfo1]

Beautiful.

Anyone know someone w/a DeAnima? Custom <$4k.


1697970930

[Tompho]

The Crumptons and Hollands posted here are especially beautiful, to me.
But I guess over the $4000 stated budget?

Sarto (and maybe Billato, etc., but neither are US) make some of their models for under $4000, but the Crumptons are really special I think. His carbon expertise and history would definitely be worth a premium, if I were shopping.

Crumpton are very special too. It would be the second option for me.
And the third a Colnago C64, not Custom, but handmade in Italy.

[seedster2]

I would consider a Sarto Dinamica, Bertoletti or Deanima which are priced competitively as long as you dont go for too many customs options.

If all of those are too pricey perhaps a NOS Colnago C60 may be worth consideration. While not custom, if you find a large size and dealer would be willing to move it with a good discount.

[joosttx]

Festka makes an incredible custom carbon bike. This one is mine.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4400/36458892421_dd53b60c86_b.jpg

[Mzilliox]

Festka makes an incredible custom carbon bike. This one is mine.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4400/36458892421_dd53b60c86_b.jpg

no kidding? i didnt know they were custom beyond paint options? cool

[sfo1]

Sweet bike. The Festka One is $4400 stock and +$200 for custom geo. 16 week lead.

Who did you order your frame through?

Festka makes an incredible custom carbon bike. This one is mine.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4400/36458892421_dd53b60c86_b.jpg

[joosttx]

no kidding? i didnt know they were custom beyond paint options? cool

they make standard geo and custom lengths when needed. They also can tune the bike to the riders style and weight. I have standard geo since I did not need custom sizing.

[joosttx]

Sweet bike. The Festka One is $4400 stock and +$200 for custom geo. 16 week lead.

Who did you order your frame through?

I bought my bike from Above Category. I do not think they are selling them anymore since going back to Pinarello. Yeah, this one is a "Classic" styled One which means level top tube and smaller tubes. The thing rides like a dream.

[sfo1]

I see they recently dropped (or was dropped) by Trek. I didn’t see the synergy for AC considering their other brands and client base. They probably got a sweet deal from Trek (pricing and little to no volume hammer) and Trek got some “street cred” in an A+ market.



I bought my bike from Above Category. I do not think they are selling them anymore since going back to Pinarello. Yeah, this one is a "Classic" styled One which means level top tube and smaller tubes. The thing rides like a dream.

[soulspinner]

Festka makes an incredible custom carbon bike. This one is mine.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4400/36458892421_dd53b60c86_b.jpg

Droolworthy wallpaper.