Métier Vélo
  • Bicycles
    • Features
    • Configurations
    • Production
    • Prices
    • Order
  • Parts
  • Services
  • Store
    • Bicycles
    • Parts
    • Services
  • About
    • What
    • Who
    • Where
    • Contact
  • Blog

Production
From Start to Finish


Bicycles [ Features | Configurations | Production | Prices | 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


Each frame designed from the ground up in 3D for you.

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.  Email or call and we'll discuss 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.
  • If you decide to go ahead, pay your Refundable Deposit to hold your production spot.

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
  • Prior to beginning your design in 3D, you'll need to pay your Design Installment.
  • 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.

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
  • Prior to printing, pay your Print Installment.
  • Your lugs and titanium parts are printed in 6/4 Ti.
Fabricate
  • Chase threaded parts.
  • Ream and face bearing surfaces.
  • 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).
  • If you chose paint, I'll prep your frame.  Otherwise, I'll apply a UV protective clearcoat.
  • Hand-paint Ti bits.
  • Press bearings: headset, bottom bracket,
  • Install fork, components, and wheels.
  • Prior to final delivery, you'll need to pay your Final Balance. 
  • Ride!

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