CIRCA’S Custom Bike Design Process
At CIRCA, we work with you personally to develop a custom bike solution that fits perfectly, looks incredible and delivers the performance you need. CIRCA isn’t just a bike shop. We’re a unique manufacturer with a core centered around our proprietary, hyper-localized frame building system. From saddle to drivetrain, you’re in control. We can also source a wide range of component options, from the big guys like Shimano and SRAM to the local heroes like Chris King, Paul’s and White Industries.
Work With Founder + Designer Rich Fox
During your bike design sessions, you’ll work directly with CIRCA Founder + Designer Rich Fox. Rich will guide you through the design process and help you create your dream custom bike. We begin by discussing the basics like riding style, budget and any other priorities you might have. From there, we move into the details of function, fit and aesthetics, including taking detailed measurements to ensure that your final fit is perfect. We often work with our clients remotely via email or video but if you’re in the Portland area, we also offer mobile meetings.
Pricing
(updated Feb 2024)
Frames:
Frames with standard or short reach geometries and two anodized colors start at $2,300.00 USD.
Additional Frame Colors: $100/color
Laser Graphics: Priced by design. Please inquire for details or visit the Laser Graphics page.
Complete Bikes:
Starting around $3,995. (Please inquire for your package specifics.)
Step 1. Choose Your Bike Type
The first step is to choose what type of bike you’d like to build, whether it’s an adventure-ready all-road, an iconic city build or some other cycling dream you’ve got in mind.
Step 2. Geometry: Two Fit Options
Standard and Short-Reach
For sizing and to optimize the fit of your CIRCA, we offer 2 geometry types: Standard and Short-Reach. We think of it as Quick Custom. There’s no extra charge for either option.
Our Standard geometry works for about 90% of riders with typical proportions. The Short-Reach variation pulls in the cockpit a little to accommodate riders with shorter torsos or who may want a more upright position.
Standard Geometry
Best for riders with typical proportions who have no problems fitting stock geometries.
Short Reach Geometry
Riders who have long legs compared to their overall height (and a shorter torso) may prefer the fit of our Short Reach geometries. This fit can also suit riders who want a more upright position.
This custom geometry, custom graphics road build was optimized for a petite rider that required an unusually low standover height. We’ve now added this sizing to our standard line for everyone sized as our XS.
Step 3. Component Selection
We’ll work with you to develop a component package that’s matched to your needs, covering everything from overall groups to accessories and frame details. We have access to all of the major component manufacturers, so we should be able to satisfy most requests. From a drivetrain standpoint, we can do anything from electronic-shifting road and gravel systems to Gates Carbon Drive belt-driven internally geared solutions. During this part of the process, we’ll also make dropout selections, determine cable routing, place bottle mounts and identify any other needed mount points or frame details.
Step 4. Choose Frame Element Colors
Our weatherproof, durable anodized finishes and custom laser graphics are a unique facet of the CIRCA aesthetic. We designed a unique build system that allows you to map colors onto the frame however you’d like. Create anything from a stealth monochrome build to a chunky multi-color attention-grabber. Anodized colors from the palette below can be applied to any individual frame element in the illustration except the fork, which will typically be carbon gray.
Step 5. Laser Graphics
Our laser graphics options let you customize your frame to tell your cycling story, leave your mark, provide inspiration or express your company brand.
Step 6. Design Proposal
Once we’ve locked down the details of your build, we’re put together a proposal that outlines pricing and all of the details of your new bike.
Step 7. Build
Your bike or frame will be built to order in Portland, Oregon and can either be picked up in-person or we’ll ship it to you.
HOW TO ORDER YOUR CIRCA
1
CONTACT.
Contact us to discuss your build and fit requirements. If you’re in Portland, we can arrange a personal design session.
2
CUSTOMIZE.
We’ll work together to refine the details of your build, from fit to component selection, colors, finishes and laser etching
3
BUILD.
Your bike or frame will be built to order in Portland, Oregon and can either be picked up in-person or we’ll ship it to you.
We're here to help!
If you have any questions or are ready to get yourself on a CIRCA, please submit a contact form.