The Ordering Process
A Concept
Before reaching out to commit to a build, think about what your ideal bike would be. This needs to factor in the type of riding you do, your riding style, ability, physical limitations, and terrain you want to conquer.
Once this concept for a bike has been formulated, think about what this bike looks like. What components accompany this bike? Do you want colors that pop, or something more subtle? Are you riding this bike down the street to get beers with your buddies, or are you riding this bike 200 miles across brutal jeep roads? All of these details make a huge impact on raw material selection, geometry, and manufacturing methods.
Communicating Your Concept
Once you are confident you can express what you desire, use the Build page to submit this information to us. If you want to write a novel, feel free. If you want to keep it concise and use bullet format, good on ya. As long as you give me details that I can then research and put into a rough design, we are in business. Following your form submission, we will reach out in ~1 week via email to setup a design call. This is where we will refine the concept into a rough design and pave the path forward. But please note, if the design is not in Blacklist Bikeworks’ wheelhouse, we may direct you to another builder that better suits the build.
Accompanying Componentry
Assuming you are planning on purchasing more than just a frame, we will need to nail down the componentry you wish to use. Most componentry is bolt on, but components like Di2 shifting, brakes, etc can greatly affect the frame design. Before we can present a final design, we will need to know everything you want to accompany your new ride. If you are unsure about what components are right for you, we can assist in the selection process to fit your needs, budget, etc. But please note, we will not pick components for you. Only you can make the final decision on what goes on your bike.
Bike Fit & Final Frame Design
If you are in need of a bike fit, we are partnered with The Bicycle Shop, Inc in State College, PA for gathering this information. They are equipped with the state of the art Retul fit system, and a Serotta fit cycle that can give us the numbers we need to tailor fit your bike’s design. If this service is required, please reach out so we can coordinate a fit for you. If you already have your bike fit data, or you wish to mimic a bike geometry that was perfect for you, we can move forward without a bike fit. Blacklist Bikeworks will not design a frame without purposeful direction.
Once we have fit or geometry information, we will present your final design in a few days. Designs will be presented in PDF format using BikeCAD modeling software. If anything stands out at this stage, this is the time to address it. Once we move to the next step we are locked in for the remainder of the build process. The color of the frame coating will also need to be picked out before proceeding. Cerakote colors can be found on Cerakote’s website. To go to their site click the button below.
Quote, Downpayment & Build Queue
After the frame design has been approved, Blacklist Bikeworks will present you with a formal quote. This quote will include all costs associated with the build, including applicable sales tax. I am not in the game of change orders, increases, or surprises, so if I misquote in your favor, happy birthday, if I misquote in my favor, I will pass this back to you via credit or add ons.
When you are satisfied with the quote, you will need to sign off on the formal quote, design file, and send us the down payment listed on the quote. Please scan signed documents and return them via email. This down payment locks you into the build queue and triggers the ordering of raw materials and components. Down payments will be accepted via check or PayPal. Once materials are ordered, this downpayment is non-refundable. The current build queue & lead time will be communicated in the quote. Any backorders on components, raw materials, or other issue affecting the initial build process will be communicated immediately.
The Build Process & Assembly
After you lock into your build, all raw materials and components will be ordered and on the way. Feel free to check in on build status, and keep any eye on the Blacklist Bikeworks instagram for the latest photos documenting your build. Once your frame has been sent off to powder coating we can arrange a pickup or ship date. Any changes in the build schedule will be communicated immediately.
Payment, Delivery & First Ride
Once the final bolts have been torqued, and a test ride completed, we will reach out with an invoice to initiate final payment. Final payment must be cleared before pickup or shipment of your ride. Final payment can be made via check or PayPal.
If you plan to pick up your new ride in person, we encourage you to bring your riding gear to share the moment. Blacklist Bikeworks is located right below the Rothrock State Forest trail system and is surrounded by some of the best roads in PA, so it’s well worth the time to saddle up and check out the local scenery.
If you plan to have your new ride shipped to you, please let us know if your inquiry.
