jade408

So over the past couple of weeks, as I was working on my biking road map, I started thinking about what I want in my next bike. I had randomly done a test ride on a mixte and liked it. I thought to myself, I should look into this style for my next bike.

I had just added a dynamo hub to my bike, and it was great. But then I started thinking about other issues with my bike, and was wondering if I was ready for a new one. I had sort of decided to rid mine through the summer, but as luck would have it, my dynamo install ended up having a few small issues. And while I was waiting for the missing part, I got bit by the new bike bug and started to explore more options.

I had a list of key features. The more I looked around, the more I realized if I got a stock bike, there was still quite a bit of stuff I'd need to add aftermarket. Taking more time and more time. And I noticed some issues with my fitting and performance that couldn't be modified on my bike. And I had "spent too much" on upgrades to the bike I have.

So I decided maybe it is better to get a bike sooner. And a custom build isn't too much more than what I would have spent on a modified stock bike. And would have better color choices.

I went to a few bike shops, and inquired about if I would be able to modify my bike. All of the answers felt like it was a little iffy, there are lots of things to try, but it started to sound quite expensive. And I'd rather spend more and tweak less.

I am currently reviewing my quote now, and making sure all the key features are incorporated! I found a local builder whose portfolio is full of "city bikes" stocked with the features I want. And follow the vintage-y style I like. We have done a few rounds of back and forth. But I think I got all the details done.

The past few days have been an adventure. I am not mechanically oriented, and do not know a ton about bikes. Conventional wisdom seems to dictate that you should be a bit of an expert if you go custom. What made me feel OK taking the plunge was really the customer service:
1. My initial conversation (about setting up the lights on my bike) was answered in a really helpful way
2. The builder was wrapping up a similar Soma build, and sent me pics of the nearly finished bike
3. Builder provided excellent detail on why certain parts were selected, and why they would work better than what I have in a non-upselly way

I am spending more than I expected to, but the final result should be much nicer than I expected! And it will be different than what I see on the streets!

When, if ever, did you do a custom build and why? How did the process go? Any other Buena Vista owners want to share their builds?

ThermionicScott 

Very cool that you found such an agreeable local builder. Please post pics as they are available!

I don't own a Soma BV, but have been thinking about one for me or my gf for a while...

jade408

I will! We are getting close. Just need to finalize the contract. Picking a color was fun. I am doing one last peruse of the "stock" bikes out there, but like the idea of a custom BV. It solves my issues and looks awesome! Hoping to take delivery in late April.

Happily, the builder will help my turn my current bike back to a stock bike to make it easier to sell!

Selling it should get me to my original budget!

jade408

After a bit more research, and a couple more test rides, I put down my deposit. Hopefully my bike will be ready in time for my group ride class next month!

After lots of thought, I realized it was worth the premium to get a totally decked out bike, with all my stuff. And not have to do the legwork of getting all the aftermarket stuff I wanted installed piecemeal! When this one is done, it'll have my dynamo lights, locking skewers, wheel stabilizer, double kickstand, racks, etc all installed and ready to ride! I just need to bring my seat (keeping my current one, my lock, and my existing basket to use!

***I do not have a helpful partner who likes to do bike maintenance or building.

knobster

I built up one for my wife to thank her for taking care of me when I shattered my tibia. Built it up with Shimano 105 parts. 105 triple crank and 650c wheels. Beautiful bike.

jade408

Pics please.

I am a little unaware of what the parts mean. But there is a mix for my build. Most of this is meaningless to me!

Going for something more upright. So there are some provisions to keep the handlebars high.

I've got an Alfine 8sp IGH, Shimano 600 crankset, Soma Oxford bars, Velo Orange fenders and chain case, MKS rubber pedals, 700c tires in cream, Soma deco rear rack, Soma mini front rack, shutter precision dynamo hub*, B&M Eyc front light*, B&M Lumotec Secula rear light, spur cycle bell*, and honey Brooks 67s saddle*.

*being removed from my current bike

It'll be my ultimate city bike!!!

Nermal

You almost had me with the spur cycle bell. Is it really louder than the Crane? I looked it up and almost ordered, but $50.00 isn't something I spring for on the spur of the moment.

jade408

It is that much now? Wow, i got it after the kickstarter for $30ish. I loved how small and sleek it was. Then I felt it was a bit pricey but not ridiculously so. I didn't like the cutsey bigger bells. (I wear dresses and pink in my bike. A cutsey bell is legally blonde territory).

Iis quite a nice bell though. The sound is quite pleasant. I would not buy it at the current price though.

Nermal

Sadness. I might, after mulling it over for a few weeks

jade408

I really like it. I have the raw one. The other bike bells have suck ugly levers when they are small.

Nermal

I'll probably go for it sooner or later. I've bookmarked the site. My real interest lies in getting the sound far enough out there that if they're going to jump, it isn't while I'm right beside them.

jade408

That is a reasonable reason. . The ding kinda resonates pleasantly.

Nermal

Jade, it kind of resonates forever. I got it today and installed it. Also love the mounting system, though I had to email the spurcycle site for access to the video and also gently directed to the installation instructions on the bottom of the box. The small size and mounting method managed to get it right where a bell ought to go. Thanks for the suggestion.

jade408

You are welcome! Glad you like it.

jade408

Finally got it today. We are not quite done, but around 80%.

What's left: lights, bigger basket, chain guard, locking skewers