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#CustomFrameBuilder #SteelBrazedHardtail #BespokedManchester #FrameBuildingJourney #HandcraftedBikes #DrustCycles #MetalHandcraft #BikeArt #BikeMakerLife #BikeCommunity #BikeLovers #BikeCraftsmanship #BikeInnovation #BikeDesign #BikePassion
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Kata Rasch, a budding frame builder, recently showcased her second-ever steel, brazed hardtail bike at Bespoked Manchester. As a newcomer to the craft, she shared her journey and experiences in an interview, offering a glimpse into her world of custom frame building.
Kata’s journey into frame building began a year and a half ago when she took a course at Drust Cycles. The experience left her inspired, and she soon found herself consumed by the idea of creating her own frames. While she is still in the early stages of her career, Kata is already deeply passionate about her craft, though she admits that one of the biggest challenges has been learning to take pride in her work and confidently represent it.
Her background in art and her studies to become a teacher have influenced her approach to frame building. She enjoys the creative process, particularly the brazing stage, which she finds the most enjoyable. Kata’s daily routine is packed, balancing her studies, work, and time in the workshop. Despite the busy schedule, she remains dedicated to her craft, often spending her free hours perfecting her skills.
One of Kata’s most cherished tools is a metal saw passed down from her great-grandfather, who owned a bike shop in the 19th century. The sentimental value of using a family heirloom adds a personal touch to her work. She also crafted the stem of her bike, leaving it unpainted to showcase her brazing skills.
Building a bike typically takes Kata around ten days, though she emphasizes that her days are filled with various activities, so the time spent on each project is spread out. She acknowledges the challenge of balancing her social life with her passion for frame building, but she remains motivated by the excitement of planning her next project.
Looking ahead, Kata is considering building a cargo bike for her mother, who has been a significant source of support. She also has a unique idea for a dog-carrying cargo bike, inspired by her own pet and the pets of her mentor, Konstantin from Drust Cycles. This project reflects her creativity and the personal connections that drive her work.
Kata admires the work of other frame builders, including Flo from Fernbicycles, and shares a workshop with Konstantin, whose work she also respects. Her journey is a testament to the dedication and passion required to succeed in the world of custom frame building.
The interview concludes with a note of gratitude to Kata for sharing her story and a hope to see her at future events, possibly with her dog-carrying cargo bike. The article also encourages readers to support independent builders and makers by purchasing issues of the magazine, helping to sustain the community and the craft.
Kata’s story is a reminder of the joy and creativity that can be found in the world of custom bike building, and her journey is just beginning. With her passion and dedication, she is sure to continue making waves in the industry.
