The Proteus Framebuilding Book - Proteus Bicycles

WhenINTRODUCTIONThis booklet is designed for the novice frame builder. Usingthis booklet for a guide, you will be able to construct a frame ofreasonable integrity and alignment. The methods described hereinare not recommended for a professional frame builder. Many of thetechniques I describe are short cuts. I am assuming the averageperson has a limited number of tools and does not want to invest alarge amount of money in jigs and other fixtures. However, carefulattention to details can produce a frame superior to many of thefiner frames produced abroad. Remember, the more time you takeassembling the parts and the more practice you can get brazing willpay off greatly in the end. Above all, be patient.Throughout the book I will say "flux and braze the joint." Itshould be understood to follow all procedures mentioned in "generalprocedure" when brazing.As for tools, always get the best you can reasonably afford.Tools are a good investment regardless of whether they are for framebuilding or not. Stay away from so called "handyman" or drug storebrands. If you're buying files, look for brand names like Nicholsonor Simmonds .using a new file, be very careful. The teethare the sharpest they will ever be. In their condition they aremost prone to breakage and premature wear. A little care now willpay off in the long run. When buying drills, not as much care isnecessary. However, make sure the drills are made of High SpeedSteel or better. High Speed Steel is often abreviated H.S.S. "Ifa drill breaks or dulls, it can easily be sharpened on a grindingwheel. Purchasing a tape measure or ruler is relatively simple.