Custom Frame Options - A Breakdown
Basic characteristics of the base model frame that will remain
virtually unchanged are the tube-set and weight.
Things that can change include the geometry, some of the frame
components and the finish.
Riders usually know what top tube length fits them, so for most of you, this is a simple decision. But keep in mind that if you use a steeper head angle your wheel base will be shorter unless you use a longer top tube. A more relaxed head angle will bring your bars back a bit. You get the picture.
These rear-end lengths are with the wheel slammed forward. With so many different gear ratios, and half-links as well, there is a lot of variation in desired rear-end lengths. For the most part, short rear ends are more nimble and longer rear ends are more stable. We recommend picking a gear ratio and experimenting by putting chains of varying links on it, with and without half-links, depending on your preference and measuring from the center of the axle to the center of the BB. Give yourself about a 1/8” to get your chain on/off and pick your perfect rear-end length.
Please use drop-out drawings below to help determine your desired "slammed" rear-end measurement.
Head-Angles that are more relaxed (lower numbers) are more raked out and give you a longer wheelbase and a more stable ride. Steeper head-angles (higher numbers) give you a shorter wheelbase and offer a more responsive feel, although they can feel “squirrely” at high speeds.
Theoretically, a lower center of gravity makes for a more stable ride. However some riders find a taller bottom bracket height more comfortable. One thing to consider with bottom bracket height is handlebar height. If you raise or drop your BB and don’t adjust your handlebar height accordingly, you might experience a whole new set of ride characteristics.
Bottom Bracket Options
Mid Bottom Bracket
We use a standard 73mm Mid BB shell on all custom frames that call for them.
Euro Bottom Bracket
We use a standard 68mm Euro BB shell on all custom frames that
call for them.
Head Tube Options
All three head tube options are CNC machined and are compatible with 41.8mm 45ºx45º integrated head sets
Shield Badge
Two small Allen head bolts hold this cast pewter Shield badge firmly to
your head tube.
Engraved Shield
Precision CNC engraved Shield into front of head tube.
Smooth
Smooth head tube with 1.5” O.D. in the center and CNC machined chamfers
on top and bottom.
Gyro Tabs
All three head tube options are available without Gyro tabs, with removable Gyro tabs, or with permanent welded on Gyro tabs.
Removable Gyro Tabs
One small Allen head bolt holds each Tab to a threaded hole in your head tube. Kit includes 2 tabs, 2 bolts and a 2.5mm Allen wrench.
Welded Gyro Tabs
If you’re going to use a Gyro all the time, TIG welded permanent Tabs are the only way to go.
All base model frames have their own drop-out design, but some are available with 3/8" or 14mm axle slots. They each have their own range of usable slot, so please use these drawings to help determine your desired rear end length as well..
A.T.F.
Small, 3/16” thick heat-treated drop-out available in 3/8” and 14mm.
Dirtbike
Dirtbike drop-outs are available in either 3/8” or 14mm.
LTF
L.T.F. drop-outs are available in either 3/8” or 14mm.
.38 Special
The .38 Special is not designed to be used with pegs so it’s offered in 3/8” only.
Seat Clamp
Each seat clamp style offers its own advantages and is ultimately a personal choice.
Integrated Clamp
We use an integrated seat-binder that has a separate nut and bolt to eliminate the chance of “stripping out” a permanent piece of your frame.
Traditional Slot
Traditional slotted seat-tubes are the most versatile of all the seat clamp options.
The A.T.F., Dirtbike, and L.T.F. frames with this option would take a 25.4mm post with a 28.6mm clamp. The .38 Special frames use a larger 27.2mm post and 31.0mm clamp.
Pivotal Base
We use an investment cast Pivotal base that is drilled on the bottom to remove weight while still being bulletproof. The height of the extension is 1".
Wedge Ready
If you want to use a wedge style post, we can cut your seat-tube down for you.
Brake Mounts
We’ve got just about everybody covered with four brake mount options.
None
Most custom frames can be ordered with out brake mounts and cable stops.
Thread-On 990 Mounts
Thread-on 990 mounts on the underside of seat-stays. Also has a Thread-on cable stop under the top-tube.
Welded On 990 Mounts
Permanently welded 990 mounts under the seat-stays comes with a welded on cable stop under the top-tube.
V-Brake Mounts
All frames with V-Brake mounts come with 2 welded on cable stops under
the top tube.
Finish
Custom frames take between 3 and 4 weeks to complete depending on your choice of finish. Obviously the fastest finish for us to turn-around is RAW, which is bare metal. The CLEAR powder coating and STOCK COLOR powder coating takes a little longer. And the CHROME plating and
CUSTOM COLOR takes the longest to get done. We will work our hardest to make all estimated shipping deadlines but thought you should be aware of these turn-around issues.
Now that you're armed with all the info, head on over to the
CUSTOM FRAME page and build your own!