Singletrack/MTB
Gravel/All-road
Dirt-road Touring
Fat-bike
Picking up where the United Bicycle Institute left off, the Firsthand Framebuilding courses aim to offer a comprehensive set of options for anyone looking to learn how to make bikes. For more on this new set of courses, dive into the details below…
Following the announcement of their new school, the specifics of the Firsthand Framebuilding courses for 2026/27 have been posted. From classes on general framebuilding to short programs on specific fabrication practices, the Firsthand Framebuilding school covers a wide range of topics, offering ample entry points for anyone looking to learn more about bicycle fabrication.
Led by Chris Blandford, B Vivit, and Tom La Marche, each brings years of industry experience and a skilled hand to the program, lending their talents to different departments through the Firsthand school. Let’s dive into the details of their new courses to get an idea of what’s on offer.
Firsthand Framebuilding Courses: Long Programs
Firsthand is offering three long courses that range from five to ten days in length. These long classes have a 3:1 student-teacher ratio and are split among Modern Framebuilding, Framebuilding 1, and Framebuilding 2, each offering a wealth of knowledge on how to build bikes. According to Firsthand, “Time is spent learning from experienced builders and practicing demonstrated skills in a fun, collaborative environment. Students are introduced to and encouraged to practice oxy-fuel brazing, TIG welding, manual machining, and drafting/design. In addition, students tour some of Portland’s numerous framebuilding spots (manufacturers’, builders’, and painters’ shops), as well as meet and ride with industry folks.”
The longer courses are offered at limited points during the year and will range in cost from $1,900 to $4,800 USD, with prices varying based on the desired material. Classes that work with titanium, for example, are the most expensive, and those working with steel are more affordable. There’s also an intended path students must follow, with Framebuilding 2 requiring that either Framebuilding 1 or Modern Framebuilding be completed first.
Firsthand Framebuilding Courses: Short Programs
Firsthand’s short seminars have a 3:1 student-to-teacher ratio, and each seminar is taught by their team of in-house builders with assistance from local guest instructors. The short programs cover TIG welding, oxy-fuel brazing, and manual machining, and last between two and three days. Each of these short seminars is offered monthly or bi-monthly and costs $900 to $1,100 USD.
For more on the new Firsthand Framebuilding courses, visit Firsthand.bike.
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