hybridbkrdr

I suppose if I wanted to sell a test line at a place like Nashbar it remains to be determined how many. If I wanted a particular type of model I'm just assuming a part of the market would like it, just like Velo Orange sells niche bicycles.

I wouldn't mind coming out with somewhat radical models as well like those old banana seat Schwinns with 27.5" tires and a rear derailleur. Or even a model that looks like a motorcycle chopper.

tkamd73 

Me? No, but to each their own.
Tim

Maelochs

That old Schwinn Stingray idea might work, but hurry ... the people who actually remember those are fading fast. Possibly the bike would catch on with a younger audience ....

I am not sure there is a big market for a custom hybrid, honestly ... but i could be wrong.

shelbyfv

Thanks for clarifying. It hasn't been clear whether you wanted a bike for yourself or were planning to start a business. Again, a nod to the experience of Mike at BMC (post#6.) He relates that the minimum order of frames per size has increased to 50. Apparently that was enough to give him pause, though he has sold all he can get for years. Before selling frames, he had years of experience in the bike industry and was able to design bikes that folks would want. In contrast, it's obvious your knowledge of and experience with bikes is very limited. JMO, but if you want a hobby business, maybe pick a field where you aren't starting from scratch.

Puttis

Looks decent. I would go for it

hybridbkrdr

I'd need to read on bike geometry and other details yes. I'd likely have to work with other people to work on the fine details. (I've built some bicycles from the ground up though.)

I just read some stuff today from BikeRadar. Insanely good news like the new Cues groupsets which will be more compatible across speeds including pull ratios, chainlines and even cassette spacing. That might make the whole process easier. Plus now they say they're coming out with sealed hubs, I might consider thru-axles. So it's a good thing I'm not ready right now.

(I'd still be inclined to go with Schrader valves though because you can get air at gas stations.)

Maelochs

As for Schrader valves .... you can also buy a bunch of adapter valve caps for a few dollars. All the benefits of Prestas and still able to use pretty much any air pump in the Western world. There will be a lot greater wheel selection if you go Presta and use adapters.

bedolaga

I like these frames.

hybridbkrdr

What about the idea of using different wheel sizes for different heights. Like say shorter people could get the 26" wheel bikes, 27.5" for medium height and 29" for taller people.

Also, what do you think about the idea of including a stem, headset, seatpost and clamp with the frameset?

Darth Lefty 

Two aluminum bikes that did either of those things would be better than one that did both

Maelochs

And 24s for really short people?

Anyway .... the more you include, the better. When these frames are on sale I might check them out. Pretty sure I will not buy one because if I build a gravel bike it will probably be carbon (maybe not) and you are not talking a gravel frame. Everything else I need, I have.