Originally Posted by rpenmanparker

I think you misunderstood my intent. I did not mean that the customer should be looking over the builder's shoulder and micromanaging the design and build process step by step. But the buyer should get what he wants and not settle for what the builder likes to build. After all, if that is not true, than exactly what does custom mean. Not just made-to-measure. Yes, if that means there is a disconnect and a different builder would be more suitable, so be it. The buyer needs to shop for a builder who is sympatico with him. But if a buyer can't say I want ultra-light weight stainless tubes, what is the point of a custom build? Or in a different sense, if the buyer can't ask the builder how would he accomplish the best compromise of light and stiff, why use the guy. These are just examples; other features would be subject to the same choice. Sure a builder can say, "I don't do that. I am opposed to that on principle." No problem. That doesn't mean the preferences are the only right way to build a bike just because they guy has history and a reputation. The buyer needs to find someone more in tune with his thinking. If the buyer is making a mistake, that is his right and his money.

It's funny. Some people like the self-service meat case, some people like dealing with the butcher in a specialty shop. But just because you want to talk to the butcher, doesn't mean you should get sold the cut he thinks is best, or the one he overbought on and needs to move out before it goes bad. It is your money, your choice.

Originally Posted by robbyville

Subscribed, looking forward to it. Thoughts on paint?

Originally Posted by pdedes

It's powder coat that I want and that Elephant does. No scheme yet

Originally Posted by rpenmanparker

Does Elephant offer any clear coat? That is not always available for powder coating, but is really important to protect decals.