Kirk bike ready for build! I'm off the wall happy!

[murielalex]

Quick backstory: After a kazillion hours of obsessive research and internal debate, I chose Dave Kirk of Kirk Frameworks to build my dream bike. I knew I wanted steel, which narrowed down my builders to a short list of five excellent builders, but I had no hesitancy when I finally put down my deposit almost ten months ago. On November 10th, I was injured, learned I had zero cartilage left in one ankle, which I already knew was arthritic, but I also knew that if I could get back to even 80% of what I was doing, I'd be good for at least 100 miles a week, if I wanted, for years (doc agreed). It wasn't looking good (couldn't ride without pain) until I started with a wonderful physical therapist one month ago, and I've been feeling really really good on the bike the last couple weeks, able to get in 30+ mile with zero pain, and increasing my speed to almost where I'd been before the accident (believe it or not, in a dunk tank for a charity event). I now know I can recover and was over-the-moon happy with putting in 80 miles this week, somewhat slow but pain free.

Cut to today: I got the call that he's ready to build my bike!!!!!!!! The only changes I'm making since the injury is that I'm no longer going electronic as I can't justify the cost while knowing that my riding will be decreased. I'm getting a JK Special with Terraplane seat stays. I haven't decided yet on fillet brazed or lugged but am leaning toward fillet brazed. It still will be two to four months before I have the bike (has to get to Joe Bell for paint, then I'm having the build done locally), but between having that click moment this week, knowing I can ride again, and getting the call, I feel like a little kid at Christmas.

I know that many of you have no idea of who Dave Kirk is, but I actually feel honored and somewhat unworthy that he is building my bike. I don't know many people I can share my excitement with, but I think you ladies can understand, which is why I'm posting now. Thanks for listening to me babble. I am sooooo excited!

Now how the heck to I decide on a color? Egad!

[Owlie]

WOOOOHOOOO!

The red ones go faster.

[indysteel]

I know who Kirk is and have seen his bikes in person. Between his and Joe's craftsmanship, you are one very wise and lucky woman. Excellent choice. Please, please, please post oodles of pictures when it's done. I'm so excited for you!!!!

[indysteel]

Have you picked your paint scheme yet?

[Catrin]

Oooooo, what fun!!! Metallic purple goes fast and is sexy in the sunlight

I am not familiar with Kirk, but I feel your excitement! Congratulations on all fronts!

[murielalex]

Thanks, ladies!

Have you picked your paint scheme yet?

Yes, about fifteen

[jobob]

Oh my!! Every time we've attended the Handmade Bike Show, I had to try to keep LeeBob from drooling over the Kirk frames.

And a Joe Bell paint job, swooon ...

Please post lots of pics! ... I'll have paper towels handy.

[OakLeaf]

Oooooooh, exciting! Will you get pictures of the frame in progress? If so you MUST share!

[indysteel]

Thanks, ladies!



Yes, about fifteen

LOL. I would struggle with that decision. There are just so many pretty options.

[velo]

Oh my!!
And a Joe Bell paint job, swooon ...

That's what I was thinking! Whichever of the "about 15" colors that you choose will certainly be beautiful. Serious eye-candy for bike nerds. Can't wait to see it!

[DebW]

How exciting. I was drooling over Kirk frames on the internet a few years ago.

[murielalex]

Thanks, again. It's nice to be able to share with people who get it.

Oooooooh, exciting! Will you get pictures of the frame in progress? If so you MUST share!

I've known other people who got pics of the build in progress, but I didn't ask him. I'm getting all the measurements (body and bike) done and filling out the questionnaire he sends this weekend. Once he gets those back and gets things figured and laid out, we'll have another conversation or five. I'll ask then.

[TrekDianna]

This prompted me to go look up some recent images on google. So beautiful. I can't wait to see it.

[roguedog]

Oooh. Awwww.

OH yes. The kirks are some nice folk. Beautiful bikes made by some very knowledgeable hands. Please do keep us in the loop and provide a ride report or five.

[murielalex]

Looks like Monday may be start day.

Based on the numbers from the Gunnar, which he likes for me, he's recommending a bit less bar drop and a bit more reach. That's about it, other than I'm becoming an insane woman choosing a color. I have it down to three choices....well....today I have it down to three