07.08.09
Posted in Hartford Courant, M.P.Klucha, MSH1, MSH1 Bicycle Works, Matt Klucha at 6:12 am by Administrator
Custom Frame Maker MSH1 Bicycle Works Turns Profit By Staying Small
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MSH1 Bicycle Works / M.P. Klucha Custom Handcrafted Bicycle Frames
Matt Klucha holds a hand-crafted bicycle frame he built in the converted garage that serves as his workshop and studio. Klucha left his job as a mechanical engineer at Pratt & Whitney to build bicycles. (CLOE POISSON / THE HARTFORD COURANT / July 7, 2009)
By JANICE PODSADA The Hartford Courant
July 8, 2009
COLCHESTER – It takes weeks for Matt Klucha to produce a single, hand-built bicycle frame in the converted garage that doubles as his workshop and studio.
“I can build one frame every three weeks — if I have a really big backlog. But I don’t like to work at that pace,” said Klucha, owner of MSH1 Bicycle Works, whose custom designed, hand-built road and racing bicycles sell for $5,000 or more.
Klucha’s low-volume, low-overhead approach means using a hacksaw to cut the chromoly tubing that will form the frame and cutting the threads with a special hand tool instead of using a lathe.
“It requires more endurance than strength. I just turn on some good music and go at it,” said Klucha, a mechanical engineer who spent 11 years designing jet engine components for Pratt & Whitney. In his spare time, he built bicycle frames and saved his money with the eventual goal of starting his own business.
“Sitting at a desk for eight to 10 hours a day was driving me stir crazy,” said Klucha, glancing at a computer monitor streaming live video from the Tour de France.
He quit his job three years ago and launched MSH1 with $25,000 in savings. The initials stand for Matt’s Superb Hand-builts. Before chucking his paycheck, though, he plotted the potential pitfalls: “If you have something passionate you want to pursue … go with it,” Klucha said. “but the ideal is to see the potential catastrophe coming, and plan for the worst.”
From the start, Klucha’s plan was to create a sustainable, one-person business with a small carbon footprint.
“I did look at renting a property off-site and investing in large machinery, but that wasn’t the business model I wanted to pursue,” he said.
His business plan proved its merit this past year when demand for luxury items, including hand-built bicycle frames, shifted into low gear. Several hand-built bicycle builders that invested in expensive milling equipment or took on too much debt went out of business, Klucha said.
“I’m profitable because I’ve stayed small,” said Klucha, who would not disclose details about the privately owned business.
Klucha has no plans to add employees or machines. Not only are those additions costly, but they don’t fit his philosophy, which is “the more machinery a builder uses, the more detached he becomes from the frame.”
“Many builders who say they make hand-built frames actually use a significant amount of machinery. I’ve never built a frame with any machinery. It’s always been with simple hand tools,”. said Klucha, 38, as he stood inside his small but pristine workshop.
Klucha’s craftsmanship recently impressed Carl Schultz of Colchester. Schultz, 51, took possession of a hand-built MSH1 road bike three weeks ago. After a series of short rides, the retired state police officer took it for a 30-mile ride on Sunday.
“I had no soreness the next day,” Schultz said. “Up to this point I’ve only owned department store bikes. Riding this bike is like going to an elite vehicle. It’s set up more ergonomically. It fits like a glove.”
Schultz, a marathon runner, wanted to add cycling to his routine. He found MSH1 as part of an Internet search.
At Schultz’ first fitting, Klucha took a series of measurements: including his arm length, inseam, and the ratio of his leg length to his body length, then quizzed him about physical fitness and the type of riding he planned to do.
“I spent a whole year designing my product, testing my frames and tearing them apart — because of the training I had at Pratt & Whitney,” Klucha said.
This spring, Klucha exhibited his frames at the European Handmade Bicycle Exposition in Stuttgart, Germany, where he met Neil Hassan, a Glasgow-based bicycle manufacturing consultant and a former bike frame builder. Hassan took home one of Klucha’s hand-built frames.
“If you were to strip the paint off half-a-dozen frames and put them in a line-up, Matt’s frame would stand out. It’s because he pays attention to the finer details; how he shapes his lugs and fittings, the fine lines at the tube junctions,” Neil Hassan wrote in an e-mail. “I’ve ridden super light, carbon race bikes just like those being ridden by Tour De France teams. I’ve ridden prototypes of exotic alloy-tubed frames… All are nice to look at and all would no doubt impress the ‘weight weenies’ and ‘Lance fans’. But none of them can compare to the bike built with the frame Matt made for me. In short, he ‘Gets It,’”
For more information about MSH1 Bicycle Works go to: www.msh1bw.com
Copyright © 2009, The Hartford Courant
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05.23.09
Posted in Client Communications, EHBE, European Handmade Bicycle Expo at 8:10 am by Administrator
MSH1 Bicycle Works / M.P.Klucha
Matt Klucha
300 West Road
Colchester, CT 06415-1841 USA
www.msh1bw.com
contact@msh1bw.com
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Re: European Handmade Bicycle Expo – Client Communications
Congress-Centrum Stadtgarten , Schwäbisch-Gmünd, Deutschland
MSH1 Bicycle Works & M.P. Klucha
Finely Handcrafted Custom Bicycles Handbuilt by Matt Klucha in Colchester, CT, USA
Matt’s Superbe Handbuilt’s
… true to the craft …
To the many who stopped at my display at EHBE, thank-you for your interest in MSH1 Bicycle Works & M.P.Klucha Handcrafted bicycles. It was my pleasure to meet you all, and hear your diverse stories. We appreciate you allowing us to tell you about ourselves, and my bicycles.
For those indicating interest in acquiring an MSH1 Bicycle Works, or M.P.Klucha frameset, please forward your known body measurements, special requests, and any component/gruppo selections you would like. Please specify which combination of the following you require: Frame, Fork , Stem.
After which I will reciprocate by forwarding my “MSH1 Fit Form”, to be used to gather your remaining body measurement data for my “MSH1 Fingerprint Fit™ Process”. Information regarding your existing bicycle(s) is also requested on the form. Once this information is received, I will commence the design process of your Custom Handcrafted Bicycle (i.e. Frame, Fork, or Stem).
You and I will then have several discussions and interactions over a period of time to precisely refine and optimize your bicycle design for the desired purpose, ensuring the highest level of precision in fit/ergonomics, geometry/handling, aesthetics and feeling.
I will then craft your bicycle.
A deposit is required to secure a position on the waitlist, and enable me to begin design efforts. For those who have placed deposits already, Thank-you, and our communications will commence shortly.
Please do not hesitate to contact me with questions, requests, etc. via phone or email.
Mit freundlichen Grüßen,
Yours Sincerely,
Matt Klucha
MSH1 Bicycle Works ®
Matt Klucha
Phone: (001) 860-537-9746
Email: contact@msh1bw.com
Web: www.msh1bw.com
MSH1 Bicycle Works / M.P. Klucha Display
(Matt & Agnes Klucha)
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Posted in MSH1 Photos at 8:23 am by Administrator
MSH1 Photos
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05.18.09
Posted in EHBE, European Handmade Bicycle Expo, M.P.Klucha, MSH1, MSH1 Bicycle Works at 4:56 am by Administrator
MSH1 Bicycle Works Race Frameset, Blackbird (SR71) Signature Paint
Despite the name, the European Handmade Bicycle Exhibition had a truly international flavour, made all the sweeter with a healthy sprinkling of builders from the USA.
Among the eye candy was the likes of Litespeed, Seven, Independent Fabrication and Merlin.
On display alongside those highly respected brands was another American builder who despite not being as well-known as some of the bigger names, received just as a warm a reception, with his work leaving a lasting impression among show-goers and his fellow framebuilders alike.
Canadian-born, but US domiciled Matt Klucha, the sole framebuilder at MSH1 Bicycle Works of Colchester, Connecticut made the trip to EHBE with wife Agnes, the couple bringing along some fine examples of his work.
Matt has been framebuilding since 1996 by way of a MTB design project as part of his engineering degree; as a hobby during his time as an aerospace engineer; then later as bike shop owner, to finally directing his all his energies into full-time framebuilding in 2007.
This was the first time the work of MSH1 Bicycle Works has been on show in Europe. Visitors to EHBE could not have failed to be impressed with the quality and workmanship of his frames. Likewise, his fellow framebuilders were equally appreciative of his skills, with plenty expressing their admiration for his work…with perhaps just a hint of envy attached!
M.P.Klucha Sportif Frameset, Candy Cobra Signature Paint
On display on the MSH1 booth were three frames aimed at different disciplines of road cycling, but with a common theme running through the collection. For EHBE, Matt built three superbly constructed examples, finished in paint schemes inspired by classic sports cars.
Perhaps the most visually striking of these was the orange and silver Shelby AC Cobra-inspired ‘Sportif’ model.
This sports a Cobra-Style ‘grille’ on the head logo, in place of Matt’s usual stainless-steel motif.
Other models on show were a dark silver ‘Contemporary Vintage ‘ model, with ‘Phantom Cobra’ Signature paintwork and an ‘MSH1 Bicycle Works Race’ model, styled with an Audi R8/Lockheed Blackbird colour scheme.
It’s the little touches of individuality which add flair and desirability to the work of a framebuilder; the fine details that lift the best above the rest.
There’s plenty of Matt in Matt’s work; his love of finely-made handcrafted items a character trait showing through the deep gloss of his Keith Anderson-painted framework.
From his unique, patent-pending head tube logo design, to perfectly finished lugs and dropouts, everything about Matt’s frames tells you this is a builder who leaves nothing to chance; one who pores over every detail to produce work of the highest class. It’s refreshing to meet a framebuilder who’s aspirations aren’t rooted in the quest for market profile, but instead concentrates on producing inspirational work of the highest standard.
Getting up close to such fine craftsmanship from a framebuilder who lets his work do the talking was an unexpected bonus for those who had not seen his work before.
I’m sure for many who made the trip to EHBE, seeing the work of MSH1 alone was well worth the price of admission.
M.P.Klucha Sportif Frameset, Candy Cobra Signature Paint
M.P.Klucha Contemporary Vintage Frameset, Phantom Cobra Signature Paint
View PDF Version:
MSH1 Bicycle Works & M.P.Klucha Builder Profile and Review
Original Link
Also on the European Handmade Bicycle Expo Website:
MSH1 EHBE Feature
WEBSITE : : : MSH1 Bicycle Works
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05.17.09
Posted in EHBE, European Handmade Bicycle Expo, M.P.Klucha, MSH1, MSH1 Bicycle Works at 6:51 am by Administrator
Many Thanks to Indra, Ingo and co. for organizing such a phenomenal event, and drawing so much talent from so many places, and Neil for all his efforts including promoting the event. It was a pleasure meeting such a diverse mix of builders, and knowledgeable patrons.
To the exhibitors I could not get the opportunity to meet, or follow up discussions with, I hope you return next year. The stream of patrons was constant.
EHBE 2010 is sure to top the 3000+ visitors and 70+ exhibitors of ‘09.
The setup and teardown was painless. The Congress-Centrum Stadtgarten provided easy access, close parking and a unique layout offering a mix of rooms, levels, and natural lighting, with a lovely open courtyard allowing patrons opportunity to “test-ride” bicycles. We much enjoyed the BBQ meet and greet – great German food!
With close proximity to Schwäbisch Gmünd Marktplatz (downtown) there was easy access to excellent restaurants, hotels, and other services. Neil agreed when I said Schwäbisch Gmünd is like München without the (overwhelming) crowds.
Stuttgart airport is within reasonable driving distance, and many things to do are nearby (e.g. The Black Forest, Castles, Museums, Automotive factory tours/museums, etc…)
I look forward to next year. Freut Mich! Tschüs!
Sincerely,
Matt Klucha
MSH1 Bicycle Works
M.P.Klucha
Colchester, CT, USA
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05.15.09
Posted in EHBE, European Handmade Bicycle Expo, M.P.Klucha, MSH1, MSH1 Bicycle Works at 4:54 am by Administrator
EHBE A SELL-OUT!
With one month to go, all exhibitor spaces for the first European Handmade Bicycle Exhibition have been snapped up, outstripping all expectations.
The show will be held in Schwäbisch Gmünd, a picturesque town near Stuttgart in Southern Germany, on the 8th – 10th May.
EHBE will bring the best of Europe’s bicycle builders.
The show hopes to create similar levels of public interest as that generated by the highly successful North American Handmade Bicycle Show (NAHBS) in the USA.
Indra Sarkar, of organizers 2Souls Cycles, said :
“When we first proposed the show last April, we expected a healthy response, but we did not expect the kind of response we have seen from all parts of Europe and beyond. At first, we booked a smaller hall in the expo centre, but after a few months we had to go back to the centre management and ask them to allocate us some more floor space. By December, we had booked every spare meter of space! There is no more room, but if it was available, we could fill it, such is the high level of interest from would-be exhibitors.”
The UK will be represented by 18Bikes, Demon Frameworks and Enigma Titanium, with their custom ‘Lab’ series.
From the USA come Independent Fabrication, Seven and MSH1 Bicycle Works.
Italy is represented by the likes of De Rosa, Pegoretti, Passoni, Nevi and Daccordi.
From the Netherlands come Vittorio, Le Cadre and Duell.
Germany is represented by the likes of Norwid, Langenberg and trendsetters Fixie Inc.
There will be components from SRAM and Schlumpf, Swiss manufacturers of innovative gearing systems.
Website :
EHBE
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05.14.09
Posted in EHBE, European Handmade Bicycle Expo, M.P.Klucha, MSH1, MSH1 Bicycle Works at 10:25 am by Administrator
European Handmade Bicycle Exhibition (EHBE) – Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany
www.e-h-b-e.eu
From
Oh, What a Show!
The chance for many Europeans to get up close to some of the World’s finest frames and framebuilders finally arrived when the first-ever European Handmade Bicycle Exhibition opened its doors last weekend.
The event drew a knowledgeable and appreciative crowd of bike fans from all over Europe and beyond. The display of bike-building talent was superb, as was the venue.
The chance for many Europeans to get up close to some of the World’s finest frames and framebuilders finally arrived at the first-ever European Handmade Bicycle Exhibition last weekend .
The picturesque German town of Schwäbisch Gmünd played host to exhibitors and visitors from around the globe; its superb Congress Centrum auditorium and conference hall the venue.
The team behind EHBE, Indra Sarkar and Ingo Brandtl of local MTB and BMX innovators 2Souls Cycles, pulled out all the stops to make sure the first edition of the show went as smoothly as possible for all attendees.
Working on a shoestring budget, and trying to keep costs affordable for everyone, whether high-profile brand, semi-pro or bike-building enthusiast, the event had the look and feel of of an event produced by seasoned event professionals, not raw beginners to the the world of ’show business’.
Everything went as smoothly as possible during the Friday morning set-up; there was a distinct absence of headless chickens clucking around the aisles as is common on a setting-up day!
As some builders finished assembling their displays, it was a joy to watch them offer a helping hand to their fellow exhibitors still in the process of getting their game on.
The very real sense of community continued once setting up was complete, as builders went from booth to booth admiring each others’ work. There was plenty of shaking hands for the first time with friends’ made online and no doubt, plenty of newbies grasping the opportunity to thank the seasoned pros for their inspiration and encouragement.
All of the metalwork on display was of an incredibly high standard.
Admiring glances from visitors in the direction of legendary marques and the wealth of new talent on display were cast in equal measure.
Just about every type of bike was on view, from classic Pedersen design roadsters featuring tensioned cables acting as suspension for comfy leather hammock saddles, to full-on state-of-the-art downhill rigs. The public also got the chance to see finely machined parts from local low-volume engineering firms as well as the latest technology from industry giants SRAM.
There was plenty of prêt-à-porter tailoring for bike riders from some of the bigger clothing ‘labels’ as well as highly attractive designs by a few lesser-known but highly skilled bespoke couturiers from both the USA and Europe.
On Saturday evening after the handing over of the Frameforum ‘Bike Of The Year’ Award to Fixie Inc, Keith Noronha of the ever-supportive Reynolds presented a thought-provoking seminar titled ‘Strength and Stiffness’.
This was followed by a Q&A session where the implications surrounding the new CEN standards and how they affect custom builders became the hot topic.
parteeeThe discussion carried over into the beer ‘n’ barbecue session, complete with tunes from a bicycle-powered mobile DJ! The socialising continued late into the night and no doubt the bar and restaurant owners around town had something to smile about when they counted the evenings’ take from the sudden influx of hungry and thirsty visitors to their town!
A hot and humid and sometimes wet Sunday couldn’t dampen the spirits of visitors to the show. Meanwhile exhibitors were already thinking ahead to next years’ event. All concerned said it was a superb show and would be back next year for sure. The ideas and suggestions on how to make next years’ edition of the event even better than this year flowed freely between organisers and exhibitors and all comments were well received and duly noted.
In all, it would be hard to find a better-organised and enjoyable event.
The first EHBE was all the more remarkable when you consider it was presented by a team with virtually no experience in organising a major international gathering of this quality. The reality is, there’s very little that needs improvement, apart from a few issues outside their control, such as the temperamental internet access and a reluctance by the local press to provide coverage in the run-up to the show.
The show is sure to be covered by the local press next time around and you can bet they’ll be plenty of interest from the town authorities thanks to influx of almost 3000 visitors over the weekend thanks to the show.
Perhaps the best comment to sum up the EHBE came from the camp of Italian legends Zullo.
As we said our goodbye’s in the lobby of the Hotel Pelikan, they told me it had been a great event for them and were overwhelmed by the reception they received and the knowledgeable and appreciative audience they drew.
When asked if they would be back again, their response was instant:
“For sure! We go to other shows, but to finally have a show like this in Europe is wonderful. Friedrichshafen (the location for Eurobike) is way out of most custom builders’ budget. But in a few years’ time, the EHBE could be every bit as important for us (meaning the framebuilding community) as Friedrichshafen; it could be our Eurobike”.
We couldn’t agree more. Roll on next year!
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