Want to build you own bike in 2010?

Posted Dec 20, 2009
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Learn to build a bike of your choice. touring, road, fixed-gear, commuter, etc.

Jeff Bock, one of Iowa's best seasoned frame builders will again offer a class in January where YOU can learn to build a bicycle frame. Jeff used to run one or two of these classes every year, but stopped doing it several years back. Notable alumni include: Bill Rumme, Jim Lanning and Gordon Borthwick. Jeff decided to offered it in 2009 as a number of people have expressed an interest. Jeff has decided to offer the frame builder class again for 2010. Bill Rumme will be assisting.

Bikes Students will build a frame and fork using traditional construction techniques – lugged or fillet brazed steel frames (as you may know, I am NOT a huge fan of welded frames). Participants may choose to build most any kind of frame that they want (touring, road, fixed-gear, commuter, etc.). Classes Classes will be held at my shop in Napier (near Ames) on Sunday afternoons (typically from 1:00 to 5:00). The course will probably go for 10 sessions. The starting and ending dates have not been determined yet as I'm hoping to work out a schedule that will best suit the participants. Experience Students will build a frame and fork using traditional brazed lug construction techniques. Participants may build (almost) any kind of frame that they want (touring, road, fixed-gear, commuter, cycle-cross, and etc.). This class is not suited for people wishing to build tandems, recumbents and/or serious off-road frames. Although mechanical and/or artistic inclination and experience are helpful, no experience or special skills are necessary. Desire and enthusiasm are essential. Costs Basic tuition is $1800. This includes the instruction, supplies, basic materials to build a frame & fork, and a single-color (in stock) paint job. Material and paint upgrades are/will be available at additional cost. Contact Aspiring frame builders may contact me at: jeffbock@ix.netcom.com or by phone at 515-277-7825 (home) or 515-232-9593 (cell).

Cheers, Jeff Bock