Ever scrolled through bike forums or seen a jaw-dropping custom ride on social media and wondered, “What’s the big deal?” Or maybe you’ve secretly thought about building your own but felt overwhelmed by the sheer possibilities. Let’s be real, owning a bike that’s literally crafted just for you, down to every curve and component, isn’t just a fantasy – it’s a game-changer. And for some, it’s nothing short of life-changing.
Custom bikes aren’t just about showing off fancy gear; they’re about unlocking an entirely new level of riding experience, comfort, and personal connection to your machine. Imagine a bike that perfectly fits your unique body geometry, matches your specific riding style, and even carries inside jokes or heartfelt tributes. It’s not just transportation; it’s an extension of yourself, a loyal companion on every adventure.
Today, we’re taking you on an incredible journey into the world of custom bicycles, focusing on an initiative that proves these personalized rides can do more than just turn heads – they can offer peace, purpose, and a profound sense of belonging. We’ll explore the passion behind Project VA, a truly inspiring endeavor by Guy Stone of Relstone Cycles, and delve into the story of one veteran whose custom bike became his very own ‘Happy Place.’ Get ready to see bikes in a whole new light!
1. **The Vision Behind Project VA: Creating “Happy Places”**At the heart of a truly special movement lies Guy Stone of Relstone Cycles, the brilliant mind behind Project VA. This isn’t just about building bikes; it’s a mission, an annual commitment to something far greater. Each year, Guy dedicates his extraordinary bike-building skills and unwavering passion to fabricate and donate a custom bike to a veteran, aiming to help them find a unique sense of peace on two wheels.
Guy’s vision for Project VA stems from a deeply personal understanding of the therapeutic power of cycling. He candidly shares, “As a civilian, I do not know what it means to go to war.” This humility grounds his initiative, allowing him to connect with veterans not through shared combat experience, but through a universal truth: the profound solace a simple bike ride can bring. He refers to the peace he feels while riding as his “Happy Place” and has made it his goal for Project VA to build custom bikes so veterans can find their own.
This isn’t a fleeting project; it’s a long-term commitment. Guy has “made a personal commitment to sponsor a veteran every year for as long as I can.” While he acknowledges that “This project will never reach large numbers of veterans,” he firmly believes that “for those sponsored, it has the potential to impact their lives.” It’s about depth of impact, not just scale, ensuring each recipient receives not just a bike, but an experience tailored to their unique needs and journey.
Project VA exemplifies the incredible potential of personalized craftsmanship to meet individual needs, particularly for those who have served our country. It’s a testament to how specialized skills, combined with immense generosity, can foster healing and joy. This annual endeavor creates not just bikes, but pathways to renewed purpose and well-being, proving that a custom ride can indeed be a true “Happy Place” for those who deserve it most.
2. **Matt’s Story: The Ideal Recipient and His Unique Journey**Every custom bike has a story, but some stories resonate with an extra layer of meaning. This year, the spotlight shines on Matt, an extraordinary veteran who became the third recipient of a Project VA bike. Matt’s journey is one of selfless service, both in uniform and in his continued dedication to his fellow veterans, making him the perfect candidate for Guy Stone’s heartfelt mission.
Matt proudly served in the Army for 15 years, a remarkable testament to his commitment. Even after his active duty, he continues his service through the VA Medical Center, demonstrating a lifelong dedication to supporting the veteran community. It was through this continued work that Matt’s path intersected with Guy’s, specifically through his efforts in starting a Bike Share Program for veterans in Chillicothe, Ohio.
Guy and Matt’s connection runs deeper than just professional collaboration. Matt was the one who initially referred the very first recipient of Project VA, Barry, to Guy several years ago. This early interaction provided Guy with a unique insight into Matt’s character. After working together on Barry’s bike, Guy instinctively knew that “Matt would be a future recipient of Project VA,” even though he didn’t know him intimately.
What Guy did know, however, was enough to reveal Matt’s selfless nature. He believed that “Matt would want other veterans to receive a bike before him.” This conviction led Guy to ask Matt for a week’s delay before accepting the offer, a thoughtful gesture that indeed confirmed Matt’s “need to pay it forward with his fellow veterans.” This innate generosity and his continued dedication to others made Matt not just a deserving recipient, but the truly perfect choice for Project VA.
3. **The Therapeutic Power of Two Wheels: Why Bikes Matter**For many, a bicycle is simply a mode of transport or a piece of exercise equipment. But for Guy Stone and the veterans he serves through Project VA, it’s so much more – it’s a vessel for peace, a pathway to mental well-being, and a deeply personal “Happy Place.” This understanding forms the bedrock of the entire Project VA initiative, highlighting the profound therapeutic benefits that cycling can offer.
Guy’s philosophy is rooted in empathy, acknowledging that while he cannot comprehend the experiences of war, he fully grasps “the therapeutic benefits of a simple bike ride.” This simple truth underscores how a bicycle can transcend its mechanical nature, becoming a powerful tool for coping, reflection, and finding inner calm. For veterans, who often carry unseen burdens, the rhythm of pedaling and the immersion in nature can be incredibly healing.
Custom bikes, like the ones built through Project VA, amplify these therapeutic effects exponentially. Unlike off-the-rack models, a custom bike is precisely engineered to the rider’s body and preferences, ensuring maximum comfort and efficiency. This personalized fit minimizes physical discomfort, allowing the rider to focus entirely on the journey, the scenery, and the meditative quality of the ride, rather than nagging aches or ill-fitting components.
The goal of Project VA isn’t just to put a veteran on a bike; it’s to create an experience that fosters genuine peace and enjoyment. “The purpose of Project VA is to provide the recipient with a great custom bike experience over the course of a year,” Guy explains. He wants to offer “the best bike I can build for them and an experience that they won’t forget for the rest of their lives,” recognizing that this holistic approach to personalized cycling can be a true lifeline, guiding them to their own unique “Happy Place” one pedal stroke at a time.
4. **Designing a Dream Ride: Matt’s Custom Gravel & Bikepacking Machine**When it comes to custom bikes, the magic truly begins with the vision – the dreams, the desires, and the specific needs of the rider. For Matt, the veteran recipient of this year’s Project VA bike, his dream ride was a gravel bike, designed for some serious adventure and infused with a deeply personal touch. This wasn’t just about getting a bike; it was about getting *his* bike.
Matt’s request was clear and inspiring: a gravel bike perfectly suited for his favorite route through the rural coal-mining mountain roads around his hometown of Chillicothe, Ohio. He also envisioned something robust and reliable enough to tackle a multi-day bikepacking trip, signaling his desire for extended, immersive adventures on two wheels. This dual functionality meant the bike needed to be both rugged and comfortable for long hauls.
The theme for the bike added another layer of personal significance. Matt requested a Cincinnati Bengal-themed bike, not just for himself, but “due to his dad’s love of football.” This subtle yet powerful nod to his father transformed the bike into a rolling tribute, a symbol of shared passions and cherished memories. It’s these personal details that truly elevate a custom build from a mere machine to a work of art with deep emotional resonance.
Perhaps the most unique and heartwarming request was Matt’s only “must”: his bike had to feature his dad’s favorite punchline: “That’s what she said.” Matt recounted stories of his dad using jokes to make everyone laugh, highlighting a playful, loving family dynamic. Guy ensured this beloved saying was meticulously placed “on the top tube so Matt could see it every time he rode his bike,” a constant reminder of joy and connection. Guy’s own comprehensive vision for the bike was a “silver brazed, lugged gravel bike with a second lugged bikepacking fork and custom direct mount frame bags,” promising both aesthetic beauty and functional prowess.
5. **Frame Fabrication Magic: Crafting “Matt-Sized” Perfection**What truly sets a custom bike apart from its mass-produced counterparts is the frame – specifically, a frame built to the rider’s exact dimensions and unique geometry. For Matt, whose physique and riding style called for something truly bespoke, the frame fabrication process was nothing short of magic, ensuring a “Matt sized” ride that would maximize comfort and performance on those long gravel roads.
Guy Stone knew from the fit session that Matt was a rider who would “truly benefitted from a custom bike.” This wasn’t just about small adjustments; Matt’s unique physical characteristics necessitated a completely “custom handmade lug set.” Lugs are crucial connecting points in a traditional steel frame, and for Matt, these had to be crafted specifically to accommodate his unique geometry, ensuring every angle and tube length was precisely tailored.
The materials themselves speak to the quality and artistry involved. The frame highlights a “fully lugged silver brazed Columbus HSS and Deda frame,” indicating a blend of high-strength steel tubing known for its ride quality and durability. The custom lugs, meticulously made “out of brazed 4130 steel,” showcase a dedication to traditional craftsmanship and structural integrity, ensuring the bike could withstand the rigors of gravel and bikepacking.
One particularly intricate detail involved the lower head lug. As Guy explains, it “from Alex Meade Bikeworks was cut apart and bronze brazed back together to accommodate Matt’s unique frame geometry,” a true testament to the level of customization involved. The entire frame then came together with “silver brazed” connections, known for their clean finish and strong bonds, and featured “flat mount dropouts from Paragon.” Beyond the main frame, Guy also crafted a “custom lugged bikepacking fork with flat mount brakes and internal routing,” although a minor setback meant a new one would be delivered later in the year, ensuring Matt eventually received the complete, perfect package.
6. **Beyond the Blueprint: The Art of Component Selection**A custom bike’s heart might be its frame, but its soul lies in the careful selection of components. It’s where performance meets personalization, ensuring every part works in harmony with the rider’s needs and the bike’s intended purpose. For Matt’s Project VA bike, Guy Stone didn’t just pick parts; he curated a high-performance ensemble designed for gravel grinding and bikepacking excellence.
Guy’s philosophy for component selection is clear: it’s about making “sure the recipient has the best complete bike for their needs.” This commitment translates into meticulous choices, beginning with the wheels. Matt’s bike features “custom carbon wheels built by me with Pacenti gravel rims, tubeless tires, and premium hubs.” This setup promises a lightweight, durable, and smooth-rolling experience, essential for long distances and varied terrain.
For power and precision, the drivetrain is a “Sram Force XPLR,” a system renowned for its gravel-specific gearing and reliable performance. Stopping power is equally crucial, and Matt’s bike is equipped with “Growtac Equal mechanical discs provided by Velo Orange,” offering consistent and strong braking in all conditions, a vital consideration for loaded bikepacking and technical descents.
Beyond the functional hardware, the aesthetic and practical elements also received creative attention. Guy gratefully mentions “Pizza Box Designs and Dark Matter Finishing” for their contributions. He gave them “creative control over the bags and paint,” and they both “nailed it.” This collaborative spirit ensures that even the soft goods and finishes are perfectly aligned with Matt’s Cincinnati Bengal theme and the overall vision for his personalized “Happy Place” machine. Each component, carefully chosen and expertly integrated, contributes to a cohesive, high-performance ride that truly reflects Matt’s unique journey.”
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7. **The Dream Team: Industry Sponsors Making It Happen**Behind every incredible custom build, especially one with such a profound mission, there’s often a network of support. Project VA is no exception! Guy Stone’s vision extends beyond his own workshop, embracing a powerful collaborative spirit that brings together passionate partners from the bike industry. These sponsors aren’t just providing parts; they’re investing in a veteran’s journey to find their “Happy Place” on two wheels.
Guy eloquently describes how “a big part of Project VA is sharing my vision with contacts in the bike industry to sponsor a veteran’s bike with the materials and components they make.” This genius approach doesn’t just ensure that each recipient gets “the best complete bike for their needs,” but it also extends the profound opportunity for others to actively “have a part in Project VA.” It’s a testament to the power of community, showing how many hands and hearts can contribute to a single, impactful goal.
This year, a stellar lineup of industry leaders stepped up to make Matt’s dream bike a reality. We’re talking about folks like Kenda Tires, ensuring Matt has reliable grip on those rural Ohio roads, and Alex Meade Bikeworks, whose components were crucial for Matt’s unique frame geometry. Pacenti Rims provided the foundation for those custom carbon wheels, while Velo Orange contributed the top-notch Growtac Equal mechanical disc brakes, guaranteeing Matt’s safety and control.
Paragon Machine Works supplied the flat mount dropouts for the frame, showcasing precision engineering. And let’s not forget Scott Payne, whose incredible photography captures the beauty and essence of these bespoke creations, allowing us all to witness the magic. West Chester Cyclery also lent their support, embodying the local bike shop spirit that often fuels these passion projects. This collective effort truly highlights the generosity and dedication within the cycling community.
8. **Beyond the Build: Matt’s Unforgettable First Ride**The moment a custom bike leaves the workshop and hits the open road for the very first time is pure magic, and for Matt, it was nothing short of epic. Guy Stone’s aim for Project VA isn’t just to hand over a finished bike; it’s to provide “a great custom bike experience over the course of a year” and “the best bike I can build for them and an experience that they won’t forget for the rest of their lives.” And Matt’s inaugural ride certainly delivered on that promise, and then some!
Guy humbly admits, “This year Matt gave me more than I bargained for.” In a touching gesture, Matt extended an invitation to Guy to join him on his very first adventure with the new bike. Just a few days after Matt took delivery, the two embarked on an incredible 140-mile, two-day journey, cycling from the vibrant riverfront in Cincinnati all the way to Matt’s hometown of Chillicothe. Imagine the anticipation, the open road, and the shared camaraderie!
During their remarkable trip, they weren’t just covering miles; they were creating memories. Guy recounts meeting “so many interesting people, saw parts of the state that we had never experienced before, and had many great conversations along the way.” It was an immersive experience, a true testament to the power of cycling to connect people and places. But here’s the kicker: thirty miles into their ride, Matt casually dropped a bombshell – he had “never ridden more than thirty miles in his life.” Guy’s reaction? A classic, “Now you tell me!”
From a custom bicycle fabricator’s point of view, witnessing Matt’s achievement was incredibly rewarding. Guy shared his awe at “how a bike I designed and built helped Matt ride faster and farther in comfort than he thought he ever could.” It’s a powerful validation of the custom bike philosophy – a perfect fit truly unlocks a rider’s full potential. Upon their arrival in Chillicothe, Matt’s family and friends rolled out the red carpet, with Guy expressing special gratitude for Matt’s wife, Jennifer, and her incredible hospitality. This journey wasn’t just about a bike; it was about connection, discovery, and shattering personal limits.
9. **Custom Bikes 101: Why Go Bespoke?**So, we’ve seen the incredible impact a custom bike can have, especially through Project VA. But for those still on the fence, you might be asking: “Why would someone want to build a custom bike?” It’s a fantastic question, and the answer is surprisingly straightforward, yet profoundly personal. It boils down to two key reasons that elevate a custom ride far beyond anything off the rack.
First and foremost, building a custom bike allows you to “tailor your bike so that it’s perfect for your riding style and goals.” Think about it: every aspect, from the frame geometry to the choice of components, is selected with *you* in mind. If you’re tackling specific terrains, aiming for certain performance metrics, or simply seeking unparalleled comfort on long rides, a custom builder can fine-tune every detail. It’s like a bespoke suit, but for your adventures.
Beyond the practical perfection, there’s an undeniable “awesome” factor. As Guy Stone might agree, “There’s nothing quite like riding a bike made just for you, and turning heads is pretty fun too.” There’s a deep satisfaction that comes from knowing your machine is literally one-of-a-kind, an extension of your personality and riding spirit. It reflects not just your needs, but your passions, your stories, and even your dad’s favorite punchline, as we saw with Matt!
This level of personalization fosters a unique connection between rider and machine. It’s not just a bicycle; it’s a partner in every pedal stroke, a canvas for self-expression, and a conversation starter wherever you go. While an off-the-shelf bike can get you from A to B, a custom bike elevates the entire journey, transforming it into an experience that is truly, uniquely yours.
10. **Demystifying the Dollar Signs: How Much Does a Custom Bike Really Cost?**Alright, let’s talk brass tacks. We all know that investing in something truly custom often comes with a price tag that reflects the craftsmanship and personalization. When it comes to custom bikes, the cost can vary widely, and it’s important to understand the different avenues you can take. It’s not a one-size-fits-all answer, but rather a spectrum of possibilities depending on your vision and budget.
Generally, “Custom bikes can mean one of two things.” The first option, and often the most in-depth, involves working directly “with a custom frame builder to build a frame that’s unique to your sizes and preferences.” This is the ultimate bespoke experience, where the very foundation of your bike is designed and handcrafted specifically for you. These frames are works of art and engineering, and accordingly, they “can cost upwards of $5,000 or more depending on the manufacturer and material.” This accounts for the specialized skill, materials, and time invested in creating something truly unique.
The second popular route is to “pick out a stock frame and customize it with parts you select.” This approach offers a fantastic balance, allowing you to personalize your ride significantly without necessarily incurring the cost of a full custom frame build. For this option, “Quality carbon frames typically cost between $2,000 and $3,000, plus whatever parts you decide on.” This gives you a high-performance base, and then you can select components like drivetrains, wheels, and brakes to match your exact preferences and performance goals.
Ultimately, whether you opt for a fully custom frame or a customized stock frame, “Both options can add up, it really depends on what frame and components you choose.” The key is to define your priorities – do you need a truly unique frame geometry, or are you looking for a specific ride feel achieved through component selection? Understanding these distinctions is the first step to budgeting for your dream machine.
11. **The DIY Dilemma: Can You Build a Custom Bike Yourself?**Inspired by Matt’s incredible ride and the artistry of Guy Stone, you might be thinking, “Hey, maybe I can just build a bike myself!” It’s an exciting thought, a true testament to the DIY spirit. However, the reality of building a bike from scratch, especially a complex custom one, can be a steep learning curve. While the idea of assembling your dream machine is appealing, there’s a reason professionals like Guy dedicate years to mastering their craft.
The blunt truth is, “If you don’t have any training or knowledge or tools, building a bike is probably not the smartest idea.” While a brand-new stock bike might only require you to “attach the pedals and handlebars” before hitting the road, starting from scratch with a custom build is an entirely different beast. For that, “it’s best to leave the installation of all your precious parts to trained professionals.” We’ve all heard the stories, or perhaps even experienced it ourselves: “We see far too many customers bring bikes in after having tried and failed to assemble them on their own.”
Beyond the technical difficulty, there’s also a cost consideration. Many aspiring builders wonder, “Is it cheaper to buy a bike or build it?” The answer, surprisingly for some, is almost always the former: “It’s almost always cheaper to buy a completely stock bike than to buy all the parts individually and install them.” Component pricing and the specialized tools often needed for assembly can quickly add up, often surpassing the cost of a pre-assembled model.
And then there’s the intricate world of component compatibility. You might be asking, “How do I know what parts will work with my custom bike?” The reality is, “There’s no easy answer here.” The cycling industry is packed with “a fair amount of different standards when it comes to bike parts,” with components designed for “specific sizes, diameters, and attachment systems.” Unless you’re “very confident in your ability to research the nuances of component compatibility on your own,” the best advice is clear: “you should consult professionals at a bike shop.” They’re the real wizards who can ensure every piece of your custom puzzle fits perfectly.
12. **Project VA’s Next Chapter: “Got Your 6” in 2026**The journey with Project VA has been nothing short of inspiring, but like any truly impactful initiative, it needs a sustainable path forward. Guy Stone, ever thoughtful and dedicated, realized that to continue his annual commitment, a strategic pause and a new approach were necessary. It’s a testament to his long-term vision that he’s looking to build an even stronger foundation for the future.
During one of those memorable conversations on his epic ride with Matt, Guy revealed his plan to “take next year off from Project VA to make it more sustainable.” His ambition goes beyond just building bikes; he intends to leverage his “accounting, tax, and finance knowledge to form a nonprofit to fund bicycles for veteran recipients.” This crucial step will allow Project VA to grow, reaching more veterans and securing its mission for years to come, moving from a personal endeavor to a formally supported movement.
The new direction also comes with an empowering new name, one that Matt himself helped to inspire. Recalling Guy’s promise, “I got your back,” Matt shared a powerful insight: “every veteran knows the term, ‘Got your 6.'” This military slang, meaning “I’ve got your back,” perfectly encapsulates the spirit of support, camaraderie, and unwavering dedication that defines Project VA. It’s a name that resonates deeply with the veteran community and speaks volumes about the project’s core values.
Guy’s hopeful vision is to “bring my project back, stronger and more sustainable than ever, under the name Got Your 6 in 2026.” This isn’t just about a name change; it’s about evolving Project VA into a robust, community-backed entity capable of creating many more “Happy Places” for those who have served. The future looks bright for this incredible initiative, promising continued impact and unwavering support for our veterans, one custom bike at a time.
And there you have it, folks! From the inspiring genesis of Project VA to Matt’s thrilling first ride, and diving into the nitty-gritty of what makes custom bikes so darn special, we’ve pedaled through a truly incredible story. Whether it’s the perfect fit, the personal touches, or the sheer joy of a machine built just for you, custom bikes are more than just gear; they’re gateways to new adventures, therapeutic escapes, and yes, those magical “Happy Places” we all crave. As Project VA revs up for its next chapter as “Got Your 6,” it’s a powerful reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary journeys begin with a single, perfectly crafted pedal stroke. So, go ahead, dream big about your next ride – it might just be the custom masterpiece you never knew you needed!
