Frame Building Course FAQ with Philip

Hello Philip – How did you come up with the idea to build your own frame?
Building a frame (or more frames) is a long-lasting dream of mine. Because… bikes, you know. Those beautiful machines of joy. Seemingly simple, yet so complex mechanical devices if you want them to really, really suit you, and to ride like you desire. Last year I decided to make my dream reality.

Why did you choose this frame? What do you plan to do with it? What have you done so far?
A couple of years ago I was able to obtain a custom geometry titanium road frame at an affordable price. In hindsight, I made a couple of mistakes with that frame, for which I had do workarounds. That experience gave the inspiration for a V2 geometry. With also some more tire clearance.

Now that the bike is finally(!) built, let’s see how the geometry adaptations worked out. For the rest, I just want enjoy riding it, discover places with it….  Apart from that: I intend to build a (probably similar) frame completely on my own now. And who knows what comes after…

What is special about the frame you built?
Three things. The geometry suits my body size and dimensions (short arms), and my fitness, riding style & ambitions. Second, to increase long-term compatibility, I chose to use decent and somehow future-proof standards: a straight 44mm head tube, a 27,2mm seatpost, a T47 (or BSA) bottom bracket, UDH and external cable routing (except for the rear brake). BTW, the frame is Di2 compatible too, and you had the great suggestion to make the cable routing removable by means of bosses. And lastly, the painting scheme was inspired by the interior of the hotel I stayed during the frame building course. To me, it looks fabulous. And “zeitlos” 😉

How was the time in the frame building course for you?
It was great! Konrad and you teached me a lot in a relaxed and a natural way.  Being with two students at the same time also meant that I could watch and learn at some points, and that Nandi and I could share our experiences. Apart from the fun of meeting another cycling enthusiast (and a die-hard rider). To get back to the building: the step-wise approach and guidance made everything doable. Even without having specific expectations, the end result looks better than I could have imagined. And I never could have thought sanding could be so meditative. Time sure flies when you’re sanding.

How does your finished bike ride?
The first impression is really good. The seating position is what I wanted. The bike is also comfortable on bad roads, despite only running 30mm tires for now. And the ride is certainly not dull. Steering is even a bit more dynamic than I anticipated. I really enjoyed myself.

How did you come across me and how do you know about the frame building courses?
I already came across Big Forest as a builder of custom frames some years ago, and noticed that you did frame building courses as well. As you made the type of bikes I like, you got on my radar. That you speak English was also a plus for me. As well as the fact that you offer fillet brazing, so I could get a taste of that. (I followed Tig welding courses earlier.) Last year, when I decided to go for it, things felt right from the first contact.