Meatsa said:Last month an acquaintance discussed his experience getting fitted for a Spectrum frame. He rode a
Spectrum bike and it appeared to have been a religious experience.
So I'm considering Spectrum but wondering if anyone here has recommendations for other frame
builders.
Getting a custom frame built is like getting a tailored suit-- that is, it's very much a matter of
personal taste, and your rapport with the maker is probably more important than factors like name
recognition or even the method of frame construction.
I would recommend getting a frame from a builder who is local to you if possible. That will allow a
personal fitting, conversation, and shop visits as appropriate. A very busy shop may only have time
or attention enough to get your measurements and a summary of what style bike you want, but a
small-scale craftsman can take the opportunity to interpret your particular expectations into a bike
that reflects your philosophy as much as it does his own.
IMO the frame that results from a process like that is much more valuable than one with a high brand
profile (and the attendant "economies of scale" that limit the buyer's role in the production), yet
it is usually less expensive to buy.
Chalo Colina
