Friday, May 17, 2013

Waste Not

I told myself I wouldn't acquire any more bikes. The garage is full and I can only ride so many. I have a bike to suit every mood and situation so I guess I'm done for now except...I've accumulated lots of spare parts.

After reviewing my inventory of cut up frames, handlebars, junk wheels, boxes of stems, seat posts, derailers, brake calipers, levers and such, I thought I might be able to put together one more bike.



I decided to make a Klunker. I've always liked the look of the old tank bikes but never seemed to find an old frame that would do, so I modified a not-so-old MTB that I once used for parts.




There wasn't much left but I did have some EMT and rigid 3/4" tubing from previous projects so a cuttin' and a bendin' and a weldin' I went and before you know it, I had a cool looking klunker frame.









Even though most of these accessories are low-end, they're serviceable and function well (so far).
I still have some touching up to do and maybe down the road when I get better leftovers, I'll install those better parts but for now, I'll put it through its paces.


I hope these photos help you understand how simple it can be to build your own bike. Cheers.

Monday, April 29, 2013

Previous Projects


KG Custom Bicycles produces one-off prototypes from repurposed elements that exist within the supply chain.


We believe a bicycle should last for generations, passed down to new owners and riders that can appreciate its history and the importance of conservation. We know how trends can drive consumerism, so we are masters at reimagining existing forms to suit the desire for something new and exciting without throwing out that which will serve, in many cases, better than much of the new corporate produce.

We share our frame building knowledge with anyone that wants stop the flow of their money to the obscenely wealthy top 2%, and instead, create their own designs, brands and creative communities. To do something other than go to their local retail outlet to buy another mass-produced, over-priced bike.

Like people, our cycles are all unique with no two alike. We can help you design a bike that will suit your needs and personality. We don’t make multiple copies; we don’t mass produce. We try to avoid introducing newly manufactured metal stock and when we do, we are mindful of its source. KG Custom Bikes are green, smart, economical and best of all, beautiful.

Check out these before and after photos:




Schwinn World
Before
After



JC Penny (Huffy)
Before
After



Mini Velo
Before

After


Galaxy Flyer
Before




After


Schwinn Collegiate 3
Before


After



Rollfast
Before

After



Huffy Sportsman
Before

After


Custom
Before
After


Corporations do not profit from the manufacturing of our cycles. All proceeds flow directly into the local economy, to other small businesses as well as local and national charities.