Originally Posted by
bgraham111
I had a custom bike built recently. I went with one of the larger builders of custom bikes. I got a Waterford. I worked with a bike fit specialist, who is a Waterford dealer (she's a Gunner and Seven dealer as well, which all make bike built to order). Probably a little different than working directly with a builder, but I had a great experience, and the bike fits me so well.
I picked them because.... I don't know. Heard good things about them. I know some people who have Waterford. I wanted a lugged steel frame (I really almost got a Ti Seven).
You'll be very happy with the Waterford. I got one in 1992 (non custom) and eventually upgraded to a current CF fork and threadless headset. Waterford painted the new fork for the dealer and it looked just like the original paint. The bike rides beautifully.
I also got a Ti Seven (that's my BF name). The Seven came out perfectly and I loved being able spec put the ride and the frame was built with varying tube thickness to adjust the ride. I went for a light frame but with stiffness in the rear.
If I had to pick, the Watwrford is the winner.