Got to build up a super nice bike for a customer recently. While I most do trade in frames and custom racks, I do like to build up full bikes for my customers as well. Having a good idea of what parts will be going on a particular bike informs the design in ways which make the whole bike seem more harmonious. In my desire to make the best and most beautiful bike possible for each and every one of my customers I would have to say that I prefer it to delivering a frame only.
This particular bike was outfitted with a lot of nice US made components from the likes of Paul (brakes), White Industries (cranks, rear hub, headset), VelocityUSA (rims), Compass Cycles (taillight), Thomson (seat post), Wheelsmith (spokes), Wheels Manufacturing (spacers), and Paragon Machine Works (skewers). I love that even with the juggernaut of Asian manufacturing dominating the bike parts world you can still get quality bits made domestically. And I am happy to support the people that do it. (Not to mention that their stuff looks and works like awesomesauce). Thanks, people. I appreciate what you do.
Specs on the bike:
700x44c tires with fenders (can fit a little bit larger if needed), disc brakes, thru-axle hubs, generator lighting with integrated taillight, custom front rack with removable lowriders, stem and fender stripes painted to match the decal color, and a custom head badge of a seashell in the style of a badge from the Camino Real. Paint, of course, by Colorworks.