General Cycling Discussion - Custom road Bicycles

Why is it that Trek is the only big name brand co. that has a custom program for their road bikes AKA PROJECT ONE. I know there are quite a few small companies out their that build custom bikes, they are not what I am talking about. It is the big name brands like Giant, Cannondale, Bianchi or any other big name. It would make sense to me that any of them would offer such a program. So what are your thoughts and ideas on this share your opinions.

The big companies mass produce bicycles. Why would they bother going custom. If you want custom, go to one of many companies that specialise in producing custom bicycles.

My custom Zona single.

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Our custom Zona tandem.
While not mass produced it fits us properly and currently has 34,000+ miles on it.
Details of custom carbon fiber lug work,
Let see if Trek will build you that!

Why do you need/want a big-name company to make your bike?

Koga Miyata has a signature program , out of their NL facility.
It's like a short order cook,
the menu of frame type and size is combined with a set of options of fork and components,
then they put your name on it and send it out to their local dealership .

none in the US, but fly to AMS airport and a short bus trip to a shop,nearby, will work, then..

bring the touring gear panniers with you, and go see the Tulip Bulbfields..
while in the neighborhood .. [if it's a tour/trekking bike]

Trek Project One is a custom paint/componentry build of their stock frames, much like the Koga Miyata scheme. The Trek Madones are made in moulds that cost $$ tens of thousands. They don't build one mould for one customer. Their stock frames are build to be safe with the heaviest riders so if you are a lightweight, your frame will be way overbuilt.

This is not a big money-spinner for Trek Ltd, it is more of a marketing excercise. The small quantity of custom business is better served by small-scale custom builders who can make the exact bike that you want.

Felt now offers custom paint at a price, it can only be had on the top of the line F1 frame.