[CR]is a frame "custom" w/stock lugs?

(Example: Events:Cirque du Cyclisme)

From: <BobHoveyGa@aol.com>
Date: Tue, 11 May 2004 13:17:57 EDT
Subject: [CR]is a frame "custom" w/stock lugs?
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org


In a message dated 5/11/04 12:38:55 PM, classicrendezvous-request@bikelist.org writes:
>This cool lugs thing brings up a question that has long been on my mind.
>Is a made to measure frame built with "stock" lugs a TRUE "custom"?

This came up on the Framebuilder's list a while back. IIRC, most builders maintained that in fact "Made to Measure" and "Custom" are NOT the same thing, but it didn't have all that much to do with the lugs. Check the FB archives for details on this interesting and exhaustively-discussed thread.

My own opinion in answer to you question is that a bike could indeed be a true custom with stock lugs... for me, a "custom" bike may well incorporate a degree of craftsmanship and design not found in off-the-shelf frames, but that doesn't in and of itself make it a custom (consider that many off-the-shelf frames did have a great degree of hand-work in the lugs). On the other hand, if I want completely routed cables, odd configurations of brazeons, freakish geometry, handmade racks and brackets to mount my panniers and video camera and laptop... and could find a frambuilder loony enogh to comply with all this... now THAT would be a "custom" frame.
> I feel
>a true custom frame should have somewhat unique and not off the shelf lugs.
>Otherwise, it seems to me you're just buying another frameset made by a
>good builder to suit your particular bodies dimensions. This type of frame
>is really no different except for some measurements than the next guys
>frame.

But that is exactly what is most important! Lovely frame details are always nice, but measurements are really the core of the frame, don't you think? A selection of tube types and lengths and angles that are assembled to fit your body and your riding style by an expert who cares is really the major benefit of having a frame built for you, whether it is 'custom' or just 'made to measure'... everything else is gravy (or icing on the cake, depending on whether your dietary preference is for a side dish or dessert).

Bob Hovey
Columbus, GA