Steelman hand built bicycles offer you a unique personal connection to better cycling. If you have a little patience, and are willing to put your trust in a respected custom bike builder of 25+ years, you will not be disappointed. In fact, you will be wondering why you waited so long!
Over the past 25+ years, I have worked with thousands of cyclists to design and build their own unique bicycle. When you choose to have me build your custom bike, you benefit from my long experience, my passion for cycling, and my obsession with getting it right. And, since ordering a custom built bike involves so many details and decisions, I always strive to facilitate the process from fitting to first ride and beyond.
A custom built bike has to deliver on many levels. Of paramount importance is developing the correct anatomical fit so the rider is comfortable and efficient. Once the ideal fit is established, I develop the actual frame design to incorporate individual riding style, intended use, and stylistic preference. To produce a desired ride and look, factors such as frame geometry, raw materials, and construction methods must be complimentary. The true frame builders art is in the adept control of these almost infinite variations and subtleties. A successful result is quantified by a smile on your face, a faster time up that hill, and a sense of pride that this bike was perfected for you and no one else.
I will build almost any type of custom frame including: road, cyclo-cross, track, mtb, triathlon, time trial, touring/expedition, city/transportation, and more. Each Steelman frame is precisely crafted in our Redwood City workshop from the finest steels available. The frame fabrication method can be tig welded or traditional lugs. All materials, such as the specific frame tubing, construction method, style choices, and of course the paint work, are unique to each customer's preference and requirements. The steel itself must not be overlooked. Steel has been in continuous use longer than any other bike frame material and boasts a proven set of strength and performance characteristics. With steel's rich history comes a vast array of alloys, tube diameters, shapes, butting profiles, etc... In the right hands this metallic language is transformed into the perfect ride.

photo ©2008 Harmon Group Inc.
Because a custom frame is only half of the whole, I specialize in providing completely outfitted ready-to-ride bicycles. Take advantage of my 30 years of experience as a bike mechanic and my perfectionist nature. My complete bike builds are second to none. Go to bike build price list.
Ralph's
To start the order process for your Steelman custom frame or bicycle, you can call us, send an email, or make an appointment to visit our shop. I encourage you to place a deposit ($1200) as soon as you have made the decision to purchase a frame or bike from us so we can secure your position on our waiting list. I will begin building your frame two months before the quoted delivery date, so there is time to iron out all the details. Delivery is currently around 6 months. Go to frame, fork, and stem price list.

If a visit to our shop is not practical for you, we encourage you to use our order form, an extremely reliable and effective tool in the fitting process. I use the information you provide in combination with an interview to develop a clear picture of your dream bike. When ordering from us, perfect fit and performance is always guaranteed.
Our customers share a passion for the unique and seek experiences beyond the ordinary. Owning a Steelman will bring new pleasure and performance to your cycling. With each and every bike order it is our goal to exceed your expectations. Thank you for considering a Steelman!
Steelman dropout


ON VALUE: The added value of purchasing and riding a made to measure custom built bike cannot be overstated! The truth is you can spend more of your hard earned money on a big name mass produced bike made in China. The advertising propaganda and pro team use may be compelling, but these bikes are cheaply made production line products designed for a nonexistent "average" cyclist. If you want more from your bike, and you like the idea of knowing who made it, and that it is unique to you, then the debate is over.




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All photos are by Katryn Steelman unless otherwise credited.