The Process | Bishop Bikes - How Custom Bikes Are Built

Consultation

Every Bishop bike starts with a conversation. We'll discuss your riding style, goals, measurements, and vision for your perfect bike.

What We'll Cover

Your current bikes and what you like/dislike about them
How you ride—distance, terrain, frequency
Your body measurements and fit preferences
Your aesthetic vision—classic, modern, wild
Budget and timeline expectations

1-2 weeks

Design & Engineering

This is where your bike takes shape on paper. I select every tube based on your unique specifications—no templates, no shortcuts.

What Happens

Tube selection based on your weight, riding style, and preferences
Geometry design for your ideal fit and handling
Component compatibility planning
Paint design and finish selection
Final quote and contract

2-4 weeks

Frame Building

Your frame takes shape in our Baltimore workshop. Every joint is carefully crafted, every detail meticulously executed by hand.

The Build Process

Tube preparation and mitering
Jig setup and alignment
Lug preparation or fillet preparation
Brazing or welding
Alignment check and cold setting
Surface preparation for paint

4-8 weeks

Paint & Finish

From classic to wild, your paint job is the finishing touch. We work with the best painters to realize your vision.

Paint Options

Solid colors—classic and timeless
Metallic and pearl finishes
Two-tone and fade designs
Custom graphics and logos
Clear coat over raw steel
Polished stainless accents

4-6 weeks

Delivery

Your complete bike is ready for its first ride. Most builds take 8-12 months from deposit to delivery.

Final Steps

Frame inspection and quality check
Component installation and tuning
Final fit verification
Professional packing for shipping
Delivery to your door or local shop

1-2 weeks

FAQ

Common Questions

Each bike is built entirely by me, one at a time. I don't outsource any part of the process, which means I can only take on a limited number of builds per year. The timeline includes design, sourcing materials, actual frame building, paint, and assembly. Quality takes time.

Absolutely! If you're in the Baltimore area or passing through, I'm happy to show you around the workshop and discuss your build in person. Just reach out to schedule a visit.

I offer both options. Many customers prefer complete builds where I source and install all components, ensuring perfect compatibility and a bike that's ready to ride. Others prefer frames only to build up themselves or with their local shop. We can discuss what works best for you.

Steel frames can often be modified to accommodate fit changes. Seat posts, stems, and handlebars can be swapped easily. For more significant changes, steel frames can sometimes be cold-set or modified. I design each frame with some adjustability in mind.

Yes, I've shipped bikes to customers around the world. International shipping costs and import duties are the responsibility of the buyer. I'll work with you to ensure your bike arrives safely.

How It Works