Custom Bikes

[Dogmama]

My 11 year old road bike is custom. As Denise said, I cannot imagine riding anything else. On my first ride, it fit like a really comfortable pair of shoes. Cornering, rough roads, etc., are so much easier. I like to ride long distances which means same position in the saddle and fit must be good.

I started on a Trek 1200 aluminum & road it for ~ 3-4 years before deciding that riding was my passion. I suggest that for anybody who is considering custom. It would be a shame to spend all that money & change your mind.

[sarahkonamojo]

I've been considering a custom bike, too. I'm having a little difficulty getting past the price, as in dollars. And what if the bike isn't perfect? From my experience bike shops will get you on whatever they have. And that just doesn't work for me. Since I've had a couple bikes that were the best I could do in the mass marketplace, I'm always frustrated with my bikes.

I was considering $3k for a bike, but seems custom costs more than that.

What is reasonable to pay for a custom bike?
SKM

[jobob]

I was intrigued by all the talk about Rodriguez bikes so I checked out their website - looks like you can get a custom frame for $1000, more for upgrades, but even so, a fully built-up custom Rodriguez could come in under 3 grand. Just sayin' http://www.rodcycle.com

[Trek420]

What's custom is the frame. The price depends a lot on what you put on the bike. Take my Mononico for example or her sister frameTorelli, you could get my same frame, same full custom fit (but I say again he retires this year so this is it) and have it at or just under 2,000. Then upgrade wheels and things later on...or not.

Or you can go top o' the line fancy schmany every carbon doodad hung on it and it could be close to 10 grand, or somewhere in between, all up to you.

But you can go custom on your budget.

[laury]

Thanks to everyone for your advice. Just wanted to let you know that I put a deposit on a Seven frame (ti and carbon) yesterday. My local Seven dealer spent a few hours taking measurements and helping me fill out the fit questions. I'm a little nervous but mostly excited. It's a big investment but hearing about all of your positive experiences with custom bikes and with Seven helps me to feel like I made the right choice. Thanks again for all of your support and help.

[jobob]

Way cool! So, how long before you get it?

[SadieKate]

Did you order an Elium or Odonata? Bubba (aka WrenchBoy) is drooling over these. I think he's getting closer to making the plunge so please let us know what you think.

[MM_QFC!]

Congrats, Laury! I'm excited for you and keep us posted on your bike's birthing process, ok?! Did you get the link for 'where's my frame' yet on Seven's site? It's fun to follow along and the anticipation and excitement builds. No matter what frame you decided on, you can't go wrong with Seven's workmanship and outstanding quality. You're sure to love it. Also, as part of my rationale in spending the $, I decided early on that it was a fine investment and I'm worth it! I've never regretted it, and you'll appreciate the custom difference on every single ride. Happy trails!
Mary

[CorsairMac]

That's us Laury - ever helpful in spending Other ppls money! I'm so excited for you! Please let us know when she/he's due and all the details etc etc........i can promise we're just as anxious as you are!!

[snpdragn]

Would any of you recommend custom for a newbie? Or do you think you should just try to get into it first?
Also, what are some things you should watch out for with the salesmen/people when you look for your custom?

[MomOnBike]

I don't think I'd go for custom for a newby. You just don't know yet what you like. Why spend the extra?

When you find youself drooling over bikes that are just perfect except for (fill in the blank with something expensive), then you are ready for a custom bike.