Step‑by‑Step Custom Bike Process
Explore the handcrafted journey behind every Blackstone Studio masterpiece. From the first conversation to the final fitting, each step is designed to deliver eco‑luxury performance while sparing you the common pitfalls of generic frames.
Frequently Asked Questions
A full‑custom build takes 8‑12 weeks after the design deposit is received. The timeline includes material sourcing, hand‑laying reclaimed carbon, cure cycles, finish, and final quality inspection. Seasonal demand or special finishes can add a week or two.
Three primary factors affect price:
- Material provenance – reclaimed carbon with verified traceability commands a premium.
- Geometry complexity – custom tube shapes, tapered sections, or integrated storage demand extra labor.
- Finish & detailing – hand‑polished lugs, bespoke paint formulations, or premium hardware add material and time costs. The quote you receive breaks each component down for full transparency.
Never use abrasive cleaners or high‑pressure sprays. Wipe the frame with a soft, lint‑free cloth and pH‑neutral bike soap diluted in warm water. Rinse with a gentle water stream, dry promptly, and apply a light coat of UV‑protective wax every 3–4 months to preserve the resin finish.
All frames come with a 2‑year workmanship warranty covering structural defects and a manufacturer’s warranty on the carbon lay‑up and resin system (typically 5 years). Warranty claims require proof of purchase and a photo of the issue; we’ll repair or replace at no cost if the defect is covered.
Yes. We partner with carbon‑friendly logistics firms that use recycled packaging and provide custom crating for each build. International shipments incur customs duties and may add 1–2 weeks to the delivery window. We’ll handle all paperwork; just confirm the destination early to avoid delays.
Store the bike in a dry, climate‑controlled environment away from direct sunlight. Hang it by the drop‑out or use a wall mount that supports the rear axle. Avoid leaning the bike against a wall, as prolonged pressure can stress the carbon tubes at the joints.
We design frames with modular mounting points for future components: integrated dropper posts, routing for electronic shifting, or custom bottle cage locations. Upgrades must be approved by a Blackstone technician to ensure they don’t compromise structural integrity.
Creaking is often caused by micro‑movement at bolt interfaces after the resin fully cures. Tighten all bolts to the manufacturer’s torque spec (usually 5‑7 Nm for carbon), then re‑check after 10–15 km of riding. If the noise persists, ship the frame back for a professional inspection—most creaks are resolved with a simple torque adjustment.