Bicycles are remarkably personal and intimate items, so why do so many of us accept the notion of ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to shopping for one? I recently attended the Baller’s Ride – a small, private gathering of custom builders and friends in Nellysford, Virginia – where I quizzed both builders and buyers about the appeal of custom bikes. Are bespoke bikes for everyone? No, of course not. But you may be surprised at why so many people want one, as well as how well within reach one might be.
By definition, mass manufacturers have to design bikes for the mainstream as it just isn’t economically worthwhile to develop new models for a minority. If you fit within the bell curve for fit, features and aesthetics, you’re in luck; but if not, you might find yourself stuck in a perpetual search for something that just isn’t out there.
Enter the custom builder, who only has to answer the needs and wants of one person: you.
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“I’m in the queue for a French-style randonneur bike that I’m hopeful will ride like a regular road bike or better with 650b wheels for big tires, fenders and lights because I commute full-time,†said one custom buyer at the event. “And the commuters that you find in bike stores suck. They’re ugly, they’re heavy and they ride like crap. I have one but it’s terrible; I hate it.â€
Custom builders are uniquely positioned to provide customers with bikes that aren't available through mainstream channels
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