the bike fit and design process
The design process consists of several primary steps: Most of the design work can be accomplished through phone calls and emails. Here’s an article I wrote on fitting and designing bicycles. It’s targeted for ultra distance cyclists, but you’ll find it informative if you’ve not been through the process before.
There are many good ways to accomplish fitting for a custom frame. By far the best way is to have a fitting done by someone skilled. I happily work with fitting information obtained this way. Many bike shops have personnel trained in fitting and also have the necessary equipment. If you’re in a large metro area, you may find bicycle fitting specialists close to you. Before engaging with a fitting expert please contact me so I can, if needed, communicate with your chosen expert to ensure the information provided will match what I need.
If you’re nearby or willing to travel, you can come to my shop and we’ll do the fitting work here. It takes a few hours. You’ll want to bring your saddle, shoes and pedals, and I’ll need to know your preferred crank length. The closest airport is Hartford (BDL), about a 15 minute drive from my shop in Glastonbury, CT.
A second way to accomplish fitting is to copy a bike that you believe is a good fit. This method carries some risk, as it’s possible, perhaps likely, that although you are comfortable on the bike, the fit is not ideal; it’s just something you’ve become accustomed to. Starting with fresh fitting data will in most cases result in a bike that is more comfortable and transfers more power to the wheels.
The basic fitting information I’ll need to start designing your frame is shown in this drawing. Some of these numbers are easier than others to measure, and I can talk you through how it’s done. Measurements should be accurate to within 1 millimeter or so. I’ll also need some measurements of your saddle.
Once we’ve arrived at the basic fitting information, we’ll talk about achieving the handling characteristics you desire, along with special considerations for racks or fenders, tire width, brake type and whether mechanical or electronic shifting, plus any special features you’d like. And of course stylistic considerations and finish. The process is simple, but it can take some time depending on the various choices to be made.