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Bicycles [ Features | Configurations | Production | Order ]

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Photos 

A Métier Vélo from start
to finish, in pictures

PHOTOESSAY | Making a Métier Vélo

• Here's a quick look.
• More pictures in the blog.
• Read on for more information.

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Overview 

Ten steps in three phases
 to a finished Métier Vélo

Research

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Wants, needs, 
measurements 
& expectations

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1.  Contact
2.  Consult
3.  Fit

Development

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 In the cloud, 
on paper 
& in plastic

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4.  Design
5.  Model
6.  Prototype
7.  Refine

Fabrication

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We love it when...
a plan 
comes together

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8.  Print
9.   Assemble
10. Finish

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Research 

Wants, needs, 
measurements 
& expectations

Contact | Get in touch!

• A Métier Vélo bicycle starts when you decide I might be the right builder for you.  Send me and email or call and let me know your interests and expectations.

• I'll let you know more about the details, along with what you can expect from Métier Vélo in terms of cost, commitment, and timeframe.
•  After we talk, if you decide I'm not the right builder for you, I'd be happy to refer you to a builder or custom manufacturer who is. In the end, we're all riders.

Consult | Discuss in detail your requirements, expectations, & desires

• Meet, discuss, ride. Power files from typical ride or race will help select the correct tubes.
• Plan components and custom parts.
• Design proposal: I'll provide an itemized design proposal to you at the end of the consultation, with a cost breakdown and an approximate timeline.

Fit | Get measured

• The Métier Vélo Measure. I can take your measurements either in person or from digital photos. This option is fine for many riders.
• The "Team Sky" Measure. If you prefer, I can use results from a fit session using the Shimano or Retül systems, or almost any professional fitter. If you choose this option, check with me so I can make sure your fitter provides the info I need in a suitable format.

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Development 

 In the cloud, 
on paper 
& in plastic

Design | Initial frame design and layout

• Select carbon tubes appropriate for the purpose of the bicycle, your power profile, and your personal riding style.
• Determine frame layout and geometry based on your fit measurements.
• Order components, wheels, and fork.
• Check clearances in the computer (like tire width, chainline, heel and toe interference).  

Model | 3D model your lugs, dropouts & custom parts

• Each frame is modeled in 3D from the ground up: this is where Métier Vélo differs from many custom builders.

• Design and model lugs and dropouts. 
• Design and  model custom mounts, internal cable guides, internal lug structures, cosmetic features, and any other custom parts to be produced by 3D printing.
• Preview your virtual bicycle! So. Pretty.

Prototype | Print to check

• 3D print prototype parts in plastic.
• Fit printed parts to tubes if necessary.
• Check clearances and cable runs.
• Make sure everything is perfect!

Refine | Appearances and clearances

• You'll have an opportunity to check everything
• I can make minor changes to things like cable routing and mount placement.
• Major changes at this point are a redesign and will cost extra (Sorry, but you need to make up your mind. No more dithering!)

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Fabrication 

The plan 
comes
together

Print

• GPI Prototype & Manufacturing 3D prints Métier Vélo's titanium parts in 6/4 Ti (GPI makes parts for rocket engines).
• 3D print any custom plastic parts at high resolution.

Fabricate

• Chase threaded parts.
• Ream and face bearing surfaces.
• Dissolve & remove supports from plastic parts.
• Cut carbon tubes to length and miter to fit precisely into the lugs.
• Dry-fit carbon tubes & titanium lugs in the jig.
• Bond carbon tubes to Ti lugs (I use West System toughened epoxies).
• Jig-cure for optimal alignment.

Finish 

• Bond cosmetics and protection (cool bits like your chain guard, stone deflectors, head badge, & nameplate).
• Apply UV protectant (marine varnish).
• Hand-paint Ti bits (expensive bits of color).
• Press bearings.
• Install headset, bottom bracket, fork, and components.
• Ride!

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