Oh man Oh man.... I go out of my way to bite my tongue (err keyboard) but sometimes.....
Originally Posted by William Karsten
As I reveiw my options and have narrowed it down, geometery becomes second place to design function and durability.
I think they're all equally important.
The average person here can spew geometry for hours, but doesn't know trail from head tube angle relationships from thier ass and a hole in the ground.
Maybe but geometry IS important for a lot of people. I've seen a photo of you and you appear to built the way most bike makers think everyone should be (or are) so I'm not surprised geometry is of secondary concern for you....lucky you.
Besides, in Thylacine's original post he does mention geometry as in: ".....so I'm wondering if I should have a stock geometry option, or just stick to custom?" So I figure it's on the table.
It also depends on the type of riding you do. I can ride my Steamroller for about 20 miles before I start to have hand and wrist problems but I can ride my Rodriquez for 60 without any problems.... and I think 20-30 miles is a reasonable distance to think about for an 'urban assault' bike.
If you took two bikes with slight changes in geometry, put the seat and the handle bars in roughly the same spot most of us, my self included, couldn't feel the difference. Some could, but most of those are extremest who buy 5000 dollar merlin bikes anyway.
See above.
As far as brake cables for the back, why don't you set it up for internal running, with plugs that can cover the holes for those that don't use it. Place them in an obscure place a viola, there you go.
Now this would be a nice touch.
As I have reviewed whats around and available, I go for what seems to be durable, good handling, good power transfer, and decent ride.
Gee, all that with no thought to geometry....it must me magic.
For a frame, I want a frame that the manfact stands behind. Not some cheasy "break it we replace it" type of deal.
Another good point.
Custom frames have got to be a money drainer for the cost you're laying out: to much time, to many variables. You're an angel perhaps for wanting to, but killing your self time wise, and burning out.. that'd suck. I've seen it happen in custom knife makers (Elshiwetz (spelling) for one has finally given customs up after trying to balance custom and decent price).. I guess it could happen with bikes.
For all of the cost an effort I assume he got into bike building because he liked doing customs otherwise he would be importing frames from Taiwan and selling them....but he can choose to speak to that.
I'd say get the line up on a few options for frames, and for options, add the odd thing people may want, water bottle holders, etc.
So if people suggest water bottle mounts or paint type or cable routing that's OK but if someone mentions geometry that's not?
So here's the deal, you're entitled to your opinions but lay off ridiculing others for theirs. You want to disagree? great ... keep it civil.
Jim