Originally Posted by
bikesdirect_com
I would like to say something about STEEL
Lots of people are asking for options in steel frames. A wide variety of requests: Lugged and Tigged. Full 4130, Reynolds 520, Reynolds 631, Reynolds 853, and other tubing too. Riders interested in Track, Touring, Commuting, CycloCross, Road, XC Mountain, and more.
I hear these requests and appreciate them. I understand that those asking for lugged know it is not for function but to look nice. Cost of course is high these days for lugged. Over $100 added to a frame. I think lugs for appearance need to be real nice – such as stainless exposed or ornate.
Even though there a small market, I would like to do something. So I am getting some samples. Tig 853 Road and ATB powder-coated – would be about $299 for frame only. Lugged Track and Road powder-coated for about $399 frame only. I am of course only considering the top maker in Asia.
I will probably bring 3 or 4 frames in addition to the current Kilo TT. Not nearly enough for everyone’s wish list. But a start.
I am still interested in any input and feedback. Lugs worth $100 [plus extra weight and less choice in frame design]. Tubing. Use. Design.
Especially, tubing brand. As now Reynolds is getting very expensive due to value of currency. TrueTemper or Tange would be less expensive.
Thanks
Mike
Hi Mike,
I have one of your Kilo's and like it very much. As to your question, I think there is definitely a market for an upgraded version to the Kilo. I think a good tubing option will override a lug version if that had to be a decided factor. Having both options will be better but then you have a much higher cost reducing the demand.
Soma came out with the Delancey with lugs (head tube lugs polished) and Prestige tubing but it's $800 bucks and I don't think they had many takers, it just didn't have much appeal. Other's like IRO now have the option of a Prestige tubing option, to separate yourself I would recommend a different tubing but well respected like Columbus. How much much would a tig welded Zona Kilo tt Frame and lugged fork cost?
To me, I would be the first one to order a Kilo with top notch tubing like the Zona and I believe many others would follow. True Temper I think would be another very good option, I would love a True temper OX frame not sure if that fits into the price range, manufacture or warranty parameters you work with. It's not just the name brand that will sell but more the tubing model. I don't think a standard True Temper 4130 butted tubing will rasie many eye brows.
I believe a well respected tubing will sell itself. Doing lugs can be a harder sell, theres are lot to do to make lugs look good and at the same time also keep the weight down below a standard Kilo and i tihnk a lot of current Kilo owners are looking for. Maybe have a polished fork bridge & rear drop outs.
Cheers,
Mr_macgee
PS. Put me down on your list for a framee if it's not too late.
'95 Japan Masters Champ Frame with Zona tubing:
