Steelman Stage Race ?'s (cross post to RBT) - Page 2

boudreaux · #16 12-09.-2003

Quote:

Originally posted by craigstanton
In my experience, the process of purchasing/building a custom frame (or even a pre-made Steelman frame) involves far more than simply plunking your money down. Frame rigidity is just one factor among many that should be considered. If, for example, a builder discovers that you are very tall -- he will likely make recommendations that account for this fact before simply selling you a stock frame.

Here is how the process worked for me: the purchaser/rider works with the builder; the builder obtains information from the purchaser (hieght, weight, boidy measurements, riding style, etc . . .), and after further conversation said builder makes recommendations with respect to frame measurements, material, thickness. I wouldn't think of second guessing the builder - in this case Brent Steelman. I trust that his knowledge is vastly superior to my own on such questions.

Whether or not a frame is too rigid/not sufficiently rigid - it seems to me - is a matter of personal preference. As you all know, there has been a great deal of debate on this question, and it seems unlikely that anyone will settle the debate in the near future.

BaCardi seems to suggest/imply that Landshark is in some way superior to Steelman. Unless someone has ridden both, I would take their opinion with a grain of salt. Even if someone has ridden both, I would still take their opinion with a grain of salt. After all, everything else being equal, we all have different preferences.

Well said, and no hooey.

craigstanton · #17 12-09.-2003

Steve,

By the way, I am now going through the fitting process without actually seing Brent in person. I don't yet have my frame, so I can't really offer much insight on how well the fitting process works yet. But, when I do receive the frame -- if you are still in the market for a new frame -- I'll be happy to share my impressions of the experience with you.

I am only 5'10", and I weigh about 155. So, my experience might not generalize very well to your body type. But, I will be using the frame for the same sorts of riding as you, sounds like. Maybe fewer mountains. Out here in Md. we don't really have mountains. Just big hills.

Anyway, since we last spoke I put my order in . . . and I'll be happy to give you my impressions as the transaction progresses.

Best,
Craig

BaCardi · #18 12-09.-2003

Quote:

Originally posted by craigstanton
BaCardi seems to suggest/imply that Landshark is in some way superior to Steelman. Unless someone has ridden both, I would take their opinion with a grain of salt. Even if someone has ridden both, I would still take their opinion with a grain of salt. After all, everything else being equal, we all have different preferences.

Oops. That's not what I mean. For clarity, both Steelman and Landshark are both equally competent builders. I highly doubt that one is better than the other. Just pointing out that
Landshark built Hampsten's bike in the Giro 1988 and a bunch of 7-Eleven bikes that were repainted. Steelman's can be flexy or too stiff depending on tubeset.

BaCardi · #19 12-09.-2003

Quote:

Originally posted by boudreaux
What is this hooey? When do riders know more about the correct tubeset than the builders? I wonder if you are not just generalizing without really having a clue.

Maybe not you, but I know that if I were to order a custom frame, I would know what I want based from years of experience with other bikes. I can flatly state that I'd like a bike a little less stiff than what I currently have. And if I know the tube diameters wall thicknesses, etc, then I am closer to a better bike on my next custom build. This info would be relayed to the builder, of course. So, yes, I know more about what I want than the builder.

gabbard · #20 12-10.-2003

Craig,

Since I was not getting a custom frame, I am still not sure that the stock frames will fit me. I have not ridden enough frames to be super sure of my sizing, so I am probably not going to get a Steelman because I can not afford the price for the new all-custom frames (very sad). My current bike was a custom frame that I spent too much money on, and I am not sure that it fits well, so I am little bit shy about spending the $1950 on another one until I can look at the lengths and angles and feel comfortable with it. I am not supposing that I know how to build the frame better than the builder, but my current frame is too big, and I would like to be able a least look at a frame and know that it looks about right.

Keep us posted on the Steelman experience. I'm just bummer that I missed the window and should have bought one last year.

Steve

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