So you're ready for a custom bike? Give me a call: 541. 910. 7433

or email: fred@wolfhoundcycles.com

and we can talk about the bike you've always wanted. Before you pick up the phone, here are a few things to consider:

A general overview of bicycle anatomy and geometry.

These are some of the most important specifications to consider when designing your bike. It is very important to choose these measurements in accordance with the specifications of the components to be used on the bicycle. Some examples: Stem length/rise; crank length; tire size; suspension fork height, rake, and travel. If this jargon seems overwhelming, don't worry, it is ultimately my job to make sure all of this is right. We can work through it easily through conversation. If you are a well-versed student of the dynamics of the bicycle, please forgive the monotony, send me some numbers and let’s move on!

Effective Top Tube

The horizontal distance from the center of the headtube/toptube junction to the center of the seattube. Considered by many to be the most important measurement of a bicycle. . This measurement should be chosen in consideration with the stem and seatpost options used. This will ultimately determine the cockpit length, and therefore the riders position on the bike.

Cockpit length

The horizontal distance from the center of the handlebar to the center of the seat. The ultimate determinant of how the rider fits on the bike.

Chainstay Length

The distance from the center of the bottom bracket to the center of the rear axle. A short chainstay produces a quick, responsive ride, and makes it easier to pull up the front end, as well as getting around tight switchbacks. Freeride and Jumping style bikes generally have shorter chainstays. A longer chainstay produces a very stable, smooth ride, excelling in situations such as fire road descents.

Bottom Bracket Height

The vertical distance from the center of the bottom bracket to the ground. A high bottom bracket produces good ground clearance and can make the bike easier to bunny-hop and get over obstacles. Low bottom brackets produce a low center of gravity and make the bike corner well.

Wheelbase

The distance from axle center to axle center. This measurement is most greatly affected by toptube and chainstay lengths. Short wheelbases steer quicker; longer wheelbases are more stable at high speeds. This is one of the most crucial measurements when designing a bike because it cannot be significantly manipulated with different components.