[pinkskulls]

I am planning on buying a Titanium Dream Bike. Because of my body geometry in need to get a custom bike. I am thinking about getting a Serotta Legend SE, Lynskey Helix, Moots Vamoots RSL or Seven. I must get this right because it will be a custom bike. Any thoughts (or recommendation for any other titanium frame I failed to mention). Thanks!

[Industry_Hack]

Don't do it. Once you build the dream bike, you have nothing left to look forward to.

[Mootsguy]

YOu might want to take a serious look at Kent Eriksen Cycles: Road Bikes

After all he does have a considerable portfolio in Ti.

[Siu_Blue_Wind]

Why do you need custom? I had to because of issues with my back. If you are close enough, I know a fantastic shop with awesome customer service. These guys take the time to do it right. I flew from California just to get to them so I can be fitted. It was way worth it because now I am able to ride road when I couldn't before because of the pain.

[chh55]

There is a lot of truth in Industry's comment!
That having been said, I think that custom building is essentially for people who's wallets are too large and need refitting. With stems, bars, seatposts, cranks, saddles, there are more than ample possibilities for fitting and fine tuning using "standard" frame geometry. The clue is to find the right frame to fit your body and riding style and then outfit it with the kit that will give you the custom fit you need. This requires experience and creativity!

[KShep]

If you are going to commission a custom build I suggest dealing with a craftsman you can meet face to face.

You should be able to find a stock frame that will fit you just as well. I understand that fit may not be the only criteria considered when selecting a custom vs. stock build.

Good luck with your project...there are many quality frame builders out there.

Eriksen / as as mentioned above....Moots el Supremo
Steve Potts
Bill Holland
Strong
Roark
Spectrum
Kish
DeSalvo

United Bicycle Institute Bicycle Mechanics School Offering Mechanic Certification and Frame Building.

List of manufacturers here ^....click 'cycling links' in left margin.

[Siu_Blue_Wind]

Originally Posted by chh55

There is a lot of truth in Industry's comment!
That having been said, I think that custom building is essentially for people who's wallets are too large and need refitting. With stems, bars, seatposts, cranks, saddles, there are more than ample possibilities for fitting and fine tuning using "standard" frame geometry. The clue is to find the right frame to fit your body and riding style and then outfit it with the kit that will give you the custom fit you need. This requires experience and creativity!

That's an unfair statement.

I don't make a lot of money and I had to cut down on a lot of things in order to save for it.

I have a bulging disk in my back that is at risk if I bend at the waist for longer than 10 minutes. I have to bend at the hips. I have tried for two years to search for a bike that can be fitted in regards to the position I have to be in, in order to have a sort of 'arched back' when I ride. No luck no matter what frame or company it was. The only kind of riding I was able to do was mtb because of the sitting up that was allowed.

With the cooperation of my doctor, the fitter and the builder, I am now able to ride road without pain.

[chh55]

No slight intended Siu....There are of course exceptions, that's why I used the word essentially. Your condition places you in the exception category. I see a lot of people riding road bikes in a nearly upright position. If you don't cut the steerer on the fork and use lots of spacers, and then flip the stem it's possible to get the bars up very high. Would this not have worked for you?

[IanHighfield]

Originally Posted by chh55

No slight intended Siu....There are of course exceptions, that's why I used the word essentially. Your condition places you in the exception category. I see a lot of people riding road bikes in a nearly upright position. If you don't cut the steerer on the fork and use lots of spacers, and then flip the stem it's possible to get the bars up very high. Would this not have worked for you?

chh55 has a point that cannot be denied. A bike is fitted to hand, bum, and foot position. Those 3 points only for they all touch the bike. All three of those spots can be varied greatly in any reasonably close frame for a given body height. You do not need to go custom to get a proper fit.

There is nothing wrong with spending money. But money is no substitute for proper bike science.

Hope you like your custom, Sir Siu. I'm in the business too, and count on those who like fine things. But this fit stuff is not strictly of custom build. Sorry.

[Industry_Hack]

Originally Posted by Siu_Blue_Wind

That's an unfair statement.

I don't make a lot of money and I had to cut down on a lot of things in order to save for it.

I have a bulging disk in my back that is at risk if I bend at the waist for longer than 10 minutes. I have to bend at the hips. I have tried for two years to search for a bike that can be fitted in regards to the position I have to be in, in order to have a sort of 'arched back' when I ride. No luck no matter what frame or company it was. The only kind of riding I was able to do was mtb because of the sitting up that was allowed.

With the cooperation of my doctor, the fitter and the builder, I am now able to ride road without pain.

You're hardly the first cyclist to have an issue with a bulge.