Purchasing Process

Laying the Groundwork

1The process begins with you having a rough idea of what you want in a bike. And then we talk — usually a mixture of phone and email, and we begin to figure out what it is that this bike will be. If it’s something I can’t or won’t do — such as tandems or recumbents — I will gladly recommend you to another builder, whose work I know and trust and that can do what you’re looking for. (I won’t just randomly pick a name.)

If there’s a waiting list, I will ask for a $200 non-refundable deposit to add you to the list. That amount is applied toward the final cost of the bike. At that time, I will also send you a copy of my notes covering what we discussed regarding the bike I’m going to build for you, and when you can expect delivery.

Commencement

2Once we’re within 2 weeks of your build starting, I will get in-touch with you. At that time, you should have your body measurements (which can be done at a local shop). Or, if you really have a concrete idea of what you want as far as fit (top tube length, seat tube length, etc.), you can provide that as well. At this time, fifty percent of the remaining cost of the frameset is due. If you have a parts group with the frame, payment for that will be due in-full at this time.

Once I have accepted payment and your measurements, I will create a formal blueprint of your bike and send it to you via email for your final approval. I then order up the tubing and parts that will become your bicycle, order the components (if any), start a photo set for your bike on Flickr so you can watch progress, and get down to business. As the bike progresses, I will intermittently send you emails letting you know where things are at. Typically, a bike will take 4-8 weeks before it’s ready to go to paint.

Paint, Prep and Shipping

3Before shipping the bike off to paint, the final payment is due. Once payment is received, I will deliver the bike to the painter and send you an email with a time quote as to how long it will take. That time varies depending on where it’s going for paint, how complex the paint job is, and who the painter is.

At this time, I also send the donation to charity.

Once the frame is back in my hands, I inspect the paint and ensure that everything is as it should be. If you have ordered a parts group, I will build up the bike and pack it for shipping. Once I have a shipping quote in-hand, I will bill you for that amount. When paid, I will take the box to the shipping agent of choice, and it is delivered to you. If you’re in southern Minnesota, I can usually hand-deliver.