After working through some growing pains, I now have a production quality 26" Titanium Muni Frame. Per David at Pride, he is ready to take orders. But first, you need to keep in mind that this a custom ordered, custom built frame, which means you need to be very specific about what you want built, accurate dimensions for all aspect including:
Brake mount type and width apart in frame. Note that you can only place the mounts so far in board and that too much frame width will not leave you with enough brake reach, so you need to be careful what you ask for…
Crown Height as measured from axle center point, be sure to give yourself some space for mud and such or taller tires, but not too much!
Frame width at tire, specify distance from axle center
Crown style: Nimbus, KH, Triton, custom
Seat post OD (KH 27.2, Nimbus 25.4), these are sized with aluminum sleeves, so it can be changed over time.
Seat tube length from crown and notch size (single or double clamp)
Bearing holders: This is where it gets tricky. David machined mine to match the KH, which is tough to do and expensive. I have some ideas that I’m gonna float by David, might make things easier and less expensive. David is also looking for sources of a mass produced bearing holders, but don’t hold your breath on this as it requires large orders.
The frames are custom made, so provide ample time for build up. I think 3-4 months is fair for a custom frame; six months is standard for custom bike frames. David can also work in steel and possibly aluminum.
A note about Titanium:
Ti is flexy, which means if you run a lighter weight tubing to “save” weight, you may get a lot of flex. The flex is what makes Ti ride so supple, but at the same time you don’t need it too supple or your brakes will rub the rim as the legs flex. We learned this on frame #1. The longer the legs, the more possibility of flex. Don’t expect to get a frame built from Ti for the weight savings. Think of Ti lke you would a gourmet meal, it’s in the tasting that the real quality comes through. If you want light and cheap, then get aluminum, KH makes great frames. If you want the best, are willing to wait, and have money to burn, then Ti is the best.
Here are some pics to wet your appetite:
To contact David at Pride:
http://www.pridecyclesusa.com/ContactPage.html
Order Form:
And remember, time is money! Don’t be cheap, Ti is not for frugal minded people. Ti is expensive material. Custom built frames are expensive. Take the time to get accurate measurements and talk with David by phone and e-mail as much as it takes to communicate your needs. Drawings help as do pictures. I do not work for David, but I’m willing to help sort through things, answer questions, etc. BUT, you are delaing with Pride, so you need to talk specifics with David, pricing, etc…
I love my Ti frame