To be clear, I'm not saying that framebuilders can't be trusted or that you're sure to get your date pushed back...I'm just saying that if you mentally add four months to your timeline, you'll be pleasantly surprised rather than posting anxiously to the internet about your missing bike.

Most framebuilders are pros, but they're also mostly one or two man shops and lots of things outside of their control can affect delivery. Someone can get sick or hurt. The guy in line before you can change his frame specs 5 times. The painter can shuffle your bike to the back of HIS line, or HE can get sick. Lots of things can go awry that have nothing to do with a builder's level of professionalism or control.

I'm just saying that when you order a frame, you're ordering a custom, one-off piece of art, and that process doesn't happen with the precision of an assembly line. Set your expectations accordingly and you'll set yourself up for a less stressful time.