Ave is the most widely-known frame builder in the Philippines. His shop is located in the municipality of Cainta in the province of Rizal, an hours drive away from Manila.
The 49-year-old has been building custom frames and forks for about 25 years, at trade he learned 25 years ago from a backyard builder in Pasig. "Doon kasi sa tinutuluyan ko sa Pasig sa mga tiyahin ko, may gawaan katulad nito. Wala silang katulong, kaya nag-apprentice muna 'ko. Sa kalaunan, natuto na ako gumawa."
To ask Ave Maldea to build you a custom frame, you get two options for materials; high tensile steel or chromoly. "Mas madaling gawin yung Hi-ten pero mabababang klase kasi, medyo mabigat. Yung chromoly medyo mahirap gawin, maganda pero mahal."
High tensile steel is cheap and easy to build but quite heavy and generally is of lower quality. Durability is also an issue for this material since it's just plain steel tubes.
Chromoly, on the other hand is an alloy of higher strength, durability and lower weight compared to high tensile steel.
It is more expensive but has better ride qualities. For most cyclists who want custom steel frames, chromoly is the way to go. It appeals aesthetically too - when adorned with designed lugs, a custom frame made from chromoly steel looks absolutely stunning.
When asked if he ever tried building bikes from frame aluminum or titanium, Ave had this to say."Sa aluminum wala akong balak. Kasi karamihan nasisira, baka mamaya balik-ng-balik yung customer. Sakit lang sa ulo. Sa titanium naman masyadong expensive hangga't marami akong ginagawang high tensile at chromoly hindi ako magshi-shift sa titanium."
We also customize frames!
To order please call: 570-34-93
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