Custom frame builders will be descending upon Indianapolis at the end of February to show off their creations at the 2009 North American Handmade Bicycle Show (NABHS). In a world where cookie-cutter sameness is the order of the day and where many mass-produced bike frames come from the same factories regardless of brand, these craftsmen offer machines that combine beauty, quality, and the superlative fit that can only come from a built-to-order bicycle. Using a complicated formula and a three-speed chain-drive bingo machine, we randomly chose builders to answer our questions. Here’s what they had to say about their bikes, their homes, and the big show.

Ahearne Cycles – Joseph Ahearne

Whiskey-sipping cyclists may know Ahearne Cycles from its signature Spaceman Bicycle flask holster. Those with larger loads to carry may recognize Ahearne’s wide variety of racks for a wide variety of loads, ranging from groceries to child bike seats. But Ahearne is about more than bike accessories; he builds a wide range of frames, from utilitarian designs for commuting to exotic fixed-gear off-road machines.

Three words to describe your handmade frames?

Functional, personal, unique.

What is your favourite type of bike to build?

Usually the one I’m building.

What makes where you live a great place to build?

I don’t think it matters where you live. It’s probably helpful having so many people around with bike ideas and bike knowledge, but for the actual construction of the frame, I could do that anywhere.

What is your favourite NAHBS memory?

My favourite moment has to be surprising my girlfriend with a really nice mixte in San Jose in 2007. She had no idea I’d been working on it for her and we’d almost broken up because I was working so much, and I couldn’t tell her why. When I gave it to her she nearly melted she was so happy – very exciting. And then it won an award for “Best City Bike.” It was all very good.

What’s new with the bike(s) you’ll be showing?

You’ll have to come and see. I’ve got one in the works that I’m very excited about.

Engin Cycles – Drew Guldalian

Drew Guldalian is a man of many hats. He’s a bike store owner, a custom frame builder, and a bike racer. He’s also one of the growing number of folks designing around – and praising – the 29 inch and 650b wheel sizes, for their ability to roll over obstacles that can stop a regular 26 inch mountain bike wheel in its tracks.

What three words best describe your handmade frames?

Hard-working (one word), flowing, industrial elegance.

What is your favourite type of bike to build?

It depends on how we define favourite. I build 70 per cent off-road bicycles because that seems to be where my bikes have the biggest rep. My personal favourite bike (not to build) is a cross bike. I love how they are dedicated race machines. In the end my favourite bike to build is one that the customer will ride and ride hard.