Frame preparation

When you buy a steel frame, it's easy to focus on the big decisions: frame model, color, wheels, drivetrain, and how the bike will be used. But before the build begins, there is less visible work that makes a big difference in how well the parts fit from the start.

With our frame preparation, we do the basic work in the workshop before the frame is shipped or assembled. We inspect the bottom bracket shell and head tube so that the bottom bracket and headset have clean, accurate contact surfaces. This is especially important for steel frames, where paint, surface treatment, or small manufacturing residues can otherwise affect fit and assembly.

The service includes cleaning the threads in the bottom bracket shell as well as reaming and facing the head tube. If you also purchase a compatible headset and/or bottom bracket from us, we can install it during the work, using the correct press and tools for the components.

We do not cut the fork steerer tube as part of this service. This is because different stems and cockpit setups have varying heights, known as "stack height," so the length should be determined only after the rest of the build is complete.