Volker – Frame Building Course Q & A
12. December 2023
Stefan – Frame Building Course Q & A
12. December 2023
How did you come up with the idea of building your own frame?
At some point, it just happened. After numerous bicycle restorations and rebuilds, I started an attempt at welding using old frame fragments and standard steel tubes. The project was meant to be cost-effective in case it failed. And I expected it would. But it worked, and from then on, I became curious about how frame building actually works.
Why did you choose this frame? What do you plan to do with it?
It had to become a real steel frame. Inspired by Robert’s “Talugrabi,” I decided on a “Talurobi,” a lugged and fillet-brazed road bike. A racing bike not just for Sunday rides, but also suitable for commuting to work.
What is special to you about your self-built frame?
Oh, there are many special aspects: First, there are the numerous decisions regarding the basic frame design, the selection of frame geometry, frame tubes, lugs, and braze-on parts, as well as the details like cable routing, color design, and ultimately the choice of mechanical components. On the other hand, now that the bike is finished, I know what a wonderfully intimate feeling it is to be riding with a creation of my own. I would say that a lot of pride now accompanies every mile I ride. Caution: The air pressure needs to be increased by one bar because of this!
How was your time in the frame building course?
Great. It was a fantastic week with you in Potsdam. Intense in terms of building and learning, and equally social and fun. Thank you for all the tips and advice and the coffee.
How does your finished bike ride?
Dreamy. Although it was not planned as a lightweight build, it turned out to be relatively light as a finished bike. I have already covered several thousand kilometers with it and wouldn’t want to miss a single mile.
How did you find me, and how did you hear about the frame building courses?
Through my wife. She contacted Robert and surprised me with the course as a gift. And it was a real surprise. I had also known about Big Forest Frameworks for a while as a silent reader (and dreamer) of your website. So it came full circle for me to have a fantastic and educational week with you.
