hello everyone,

I hope all is well. Im usually hanging out on the commuter forum or the Clydes but I have needs that best calls for the expertise right here.

Im 5'10" 247 Lb , short 29/30 inseam, somewhat long torso.

My current Bike that I commute most of the time on is a Surly cross check that I built up 2 years ago.

the LBS I bought the frame from only used the SO height as the only determining factor. the 50cm although the SO height is fine the bike just isnt right.

1) the geometry on my cross check is not at all relaxed with the 700 wheels .
2) my brooks saddle is all the way back and I have a very long and tall stem.
3) although not a big issue my stack height Is an ugly 5.5 "
4) I have a 2 legged kickstand but its a cob job not right.
5)need a few more brazeons...

anyway what if any Stock frames or manufacturers have sloping top tube (compact design) that would accomidate my build or is custom the only answer?


Im even thinking of perhaps building a frame this winter if I can find the time and some layout help , actually Velonomad lives near me but he hasnt posted in a while so I cant contact him (im a pretty good metal worker )

I was thinking perhaps thorn Or ??? also I would like to use the new long reach calipers vs cantis or V brakes if possible.

many thanks

"John" riding in the tour de cure!

I talked to Velonomad recently, He has been really ill since last year and is finally back on his bike. I suspect he will be showing up in the frame forum pretty soon. He just did
a beautiful repaint on one of his old bikes and will probably want to show it off

HARTMANN,

Thanks for the reply, Please give my best to velonomad, I hope he is feeling better.

Again I work with somone who is from Round Lake NY and thinks he Knows who Velonomad is But Not sure.

I would love to contact Velonomad and see if he would help me with a frame build at some time ,again I am only mins away from him (Round Lake NY)plus it would be nice to network with a real BF member.

No luck so far looking for stock frames ,I called my contact at Battenkill sports in VT. Bill, he can't thinK of any off the shelf frames that would fit except his commuter which he may sell but not yet . His particular frame is not made anymore.

lugged is out due to my slope tube needs and the taller steer tube to make it all work.


Building a frame is a temping option as Im looking for a slope tube , a bit longer chainstay, and the frame set up for the new extra long reach sidepulls instead of cantis or Vs LOTS OF BRAZONS and Threaded stem... would like bottle cage behind seat to hold tool kit...

HAVE A GREAT DAY

thanks for the help

"John"

Sad to hear that you haven't been well, Velonomad, best wishes for a good year this year!

I've heard it said that Joe Bringheli (bringheli.com) does a first rate frame for around 500. Apparently at that price it's unfinished, but if you are planing on proceeeding from raw, that shouldn't be a problem.

I think I figured out a way to make a frame without frame prep tools. It's a little unorthodox but it should work. On the other hand, i just bought the bottom bracket tools, so I probably won't be using this method myself.