What will I learn on a 5 Day Bespoke Frame Building Course?

Our standard frame building course is 5 days long, it is taught on a 2:1 student:teacher ratio. Occasionally some of the theoretical components will be taught to a slightly larger group of students. You will start the course with an introduction to the workshop and a general induction. We progress by focusing on brazing which will incorporate all of the governing theory followed by an intensive period of practical exercises to help deepen your knowledge of the process.

Brazing torch diagram, how to braze, filet brazing, how to build a bike

A student learns how to Brazing torch diagram braze, filet brazing, how to build a bike

For the remainder of the course you will undertake structured brazing practice each day so that you a working at a high standard and are confident in your ability by the time you come to braze your frame.

bicycle frame design tools, frame building diagram, chain stay spacing

A student learns how to cut and braze a mitred frame, brass fillet brazing

Before you begin fabrication we will undertake a fit and design process. As part of this you will go through a measurement process, this ensures not only that we have the correct starting point for your design but also enables you to learn about cycling biomechanics within the context of designing a bike for a specific rider.

You will learn about the dynamic performance of a bicycle and how to effectively design a geometry to match your design brief. We will also cover the structural considerations with frame design and how to select appropriate tubing.

Learn how to use Bikecad, fundamentals of bicycle frame design, how to design a bike

A student checks wheel spacing on chain stay diagram, rear wheel spacing, frame building school uk

Before starting fabrication of your frame you will learn how to use the various tools at your disposal to effectively mark, measure and cut material to the required level of accuracy to ensure that your frame will serve you for years to come.

Learn how to hand cut a bicycle frame mitre, hand file, frame building

a student builds a mountain bike, mtb frame building, columbus tubing, head tube mitre

You will then build the frame during which time we will be adding ‘layers’ to your understanding of each individual element of the process to help improve the learning outcome for you.

Learn how to set up a frame building jig, how to build a bike, low cost frame fixture

Bicycle frame building supplies, columbus tubing

On the final day of the course, after finishing the brazing of the frame and adding any small braze on parts, you will check and adjust the alignment of your frame. You will also ensure that the frame is ready to be assembled with components by reaming, facing and chasing any relevant interfaces.

Learn how to chase face and ream a bicycle frame, frame building tools

Image of a bike frame in a jig, low cost frame fixture

We can also talk you through the various options that you have (and more importantly any inherent risks that you need to be mindful of) for cosmetically ‘finishing’ the frame before you get it painted. Will you file the Fillets? Will you have the frame powder coated or wet painted? We can help to guide you in these considerations. At the end of the final day you will leave with your very own bespoke frame, designed specifically for and built entirely by you!

A bespoke bicycle made at the bicycle academy, frame building school uk

Go back to the 5 day course booking page