Métier Vélo
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Production
From Start to Finish


Bicycles [ Features | Configurations | Production | Order ]

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.

Overview 

Ten steps in three phases
 to a finished Métier Vélo

Research


Wants, needs, 
measurements 

& expectations

1.  Contact
2.  Consult
3.  Fit

Development


 In the cloud, 
on paper 
& in plastic

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

Fabrication


We love it when...
a plan 
comes together

8.  Print
9.   Assemble
10. Finish

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.

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!)

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!

Métier Vélo LLC • Las Cruces, New Mexico USA •  jamie@metier-velo.com • 385 202 6148
  • Bicycles
    • Features
    • Configurations
    • Production
    • Prices
    • Order
  • Parts
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    • Bicycles
    • Parts
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  • About
    • What
    • Who
    • Where
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