about me
I believe that building a bicycle frame starts long before the torch is lit. Like any engineering endeavor, it starts with under-standing the needs and desires of you, the client. Basic fit is important, but not enough. I begin with listening to the experiences that led you to me, your riding history, your cycling dreams, and what you imagine your next bike to be.
Like you, I’m a cyclist. Over the years, I’ve had a wide variety of cycling experiences, including touring, racing, and randonneuring. In 2007, I was the fourth US finisher at Paris-Brest-Paris, finishing the 762 mile event in 55 hours, 49 minutes and earning membership in the Societe de Charly Miller. I rode a bicycle I’d designed and built specially for that event.
I’m also a mechanical engineer with over 40 years experience in product design, development, and manufacturing. I hold a Master’s Degree in mechanical engineering from Stanford University and have been awarded 13 US Patents. My engineering career affords me invaluable insight into materials, metallurgy, design innovation, manufacturing, and metrology – insight intensely relevant to designing and manufacturing bicycle frames.
I have been building frames since 1999 and was trained and certified as a bicycle frame builder by United Bicycle Institute. I work almost exclusively in steel and stainless steel, either lugged or fillet brazed, and with a wide variety of high quality tubing, lugs and fittings. Every frame I produce is completely engineered and manufactured by me. I do everything from taking initial measurements and selecting materials, to the intricate filing and metalwork needed to make a beautiful and unique frame.
I enjoy the challenge of the unusual, whether that means artistic subtleties in the metalwork, frame geometry that can’t be found in a bike shop, a fascinating finish concept, or a frame for special use. At the same time I thrive on simply making beautiful and functional bicycles. Whatever you imagine your next bike to be, my experience and extensive background in manufacturing and product design engineering allows me an unparalleled ability to translate that dream into reality.
Drop me an email or give me a call. I’d love to hear what you’re looking for in your next bicycle. Alex Meade
Here are some links to articles that will give you more insight into me and what I do:
“A Bicycle Built for You”, Greenfield Recorder;
“Business Monday”, Lexington Herald-Leader;
“The Wheels Are At Work”, Chevy Chaser Magazine;
“Alex Meade’s PBP Bike”, American Randonneur;
“Fitting and Designing Frames for Ultra Distance Cyclists”, Ultracycling, Summer 2013, Ultra Marathon Cycling Association
A few unsolicited comments from my clients:
“Most comfortable bike ride ever! The bike rides like butter! The eTap is exceptional, the Ritchey Carbon cockpit is featherweight and a perfect choice………But, that frame! Also, thanks for recommending the Wound Up forks- super clean ride quality. After 50 miles I feel I could have ridden ALL DAY. Comfortable would be an understatement. Couldn’t be happier!”
“So I finally got out for a ride, and the bike was flawless. The engine was a little overweight and underpowered, but the bike rode beautifully. And, packed up in the case, it went (on the plane) as regular luggage with no extra fees, and easily went in the trunk of a small rental car. Thanks!”
“The bike performed flawlessly on its maiden voyage; this is by far the most comfortable bike that I’ve ever ridden, a perfect fit. I feel as though I’m putting more power out due to that fit; it should feel very comfortable on the next 1000K I do.”
“When my bike was stolen I decided to get a custom made bike. First move was to contact several builders. One stood out above all others in the way he replied to me. That was Alex Meade of Lexington, KY. From our first meeting when I flew there from Los Angeles to be fitted, I have been impressed with the approach Alex takes to his craft as well as his friendly, welcoming and relaxing personality. Cabinet makers say, “Measure twice – cut once”. Well – Alex measures several times. And that was his method all the way through the construction process. He is totally thorough. But also, he has been as excited as me about the new bike. I really loved that. Here is a person who really loves what he does……Now, my dream is a reality which I am riding….So – I recommend Alex Meade as the guy to go to when you want a custom bike built. You will be immensely pleased with his services.”