The Titanium Custom Frame Builder: How It Works

A custom titanium frame is the ultimate expression of what a mountain bike can be — built to your body, your riding style, and your preferences. Here's exactly how the DIRTLAB custom titanium frame process works, from first conversation to first ride.

Step 1: Rider Consultation

Every custom frame starts with a conversation. We need to understand your body measurements (height, inseam, arm length, torso length), your riding style (XC racing, trail, enduro, bikepacking), your terrain (steep and technical? smooth and fast?), and your preferences (do you prioritize climbing efficiency or descending stability?).

We use a detailed fit questionnaire combined with a video call to discuss your goals. If you've had a professional bike fit, bring that data — it's incredibly valuable. If you have a current bike that fits well, we'll use its geometry as a reference point and refine from there.

Step 2: Geometry Design

Based on your consultation, we design a custom geometry using our G-Volve geometry platform as a starting point. Key dimensions we customize include:

• Reach and Stack: The primary fit numbers that determine your riding position
• Head Tube Angle: Steeper for XC efficiency, slacker for descending stability
• Seat Tube Angle: Steeper for modern pedaling position and better weight distribution on climbs
• Chainstay Length: Shorter for agility, longer for stability and climbing traction
• Bottom Bracket Drop: Controls center of gravity and cornering confidence

You'll receive a detailed geometry chart with comparisons to standard sizes so you can see exactly how your custom frame differs.

Step 3: Specification Choices

Beyond geometry, you choose:

• Material: 3Al-2.5V (more compliant, classic ride feel) or 6Al-4V (stiffer, lighter, more aggressive)
• Dropouts: Standard 148 mm Boost thru-axle, or adjustable sliding dropouts for singlespeed/geared flexibility
• Cable Routing: Internal or external, optimized for your drivetrain and dropper post choice
• Brake Mount: Post mount or flat mount, 160 mm or 180 mm direct
• Finish: Raw brushed titanium (our favorite — it ages beautifully), bead-blasted matte, or custom cerakote color
• Custom Details: Engraved graphics, personalized serial number, rider name on the top tube

Step 4: Fabrication

Once you approve the design, fabrication takes 8-12 weeks. Each frame is hand-built by our titanium specialists — cut, mitered, fixtured, and TIG-welded with precision. The welds are inspected visually and dimensionally, and every frame is alignment-checked on a surface table before finishing. We document the build with photos and share updates throughout the process.

Step 5: Delivery

Your frame ships with a headset, thru-axle, and derailleur hanger included. We provide a detailed spec sheet with geometry, torque values, and maintenance guidelines. If you ordered a complete build, we assemble, tune, and test-ride before shipping.

Ready to start? Contact us at sales@bikelab-inc.com to begin your consultation.