Wabi Product Questions

What are the differences between the Wabi bicycle models?

Check out our page that covers the differences of each model.

The best way to determine your frame sizing is to review our sizing chart on our sizing page. Before you start, please note that your Wabi sizing may be a size smaller than your other bikes given our geometry. While the height range is important, the standover height is just as important. To det...

Can I get custom colors on the frames? How do I specify a custom color?

Yes, we offer powder coat custom colors on our Classic, Special and Thunder frames. We are unable to do custom colors on the Lightning due to the carbon fork. Powder coat cannot be applied to carbon. Powder coat finishes are good quality durable finishes that come in a wide range of colors, effe...

Can I get a raw metal or raw steel frame?

Sorry, but no. We understand the desire for that look, but our experience is that there are a number of issues with this approach: Clear coat doesn't bond well with raw steel so it doesn't hold up well over time. Blotching typically occurs about 6 - 8 months after the clear coat is applied due t...

What is the maximum rider weight for Wabis?

Our steel frames are very strong (as well as lightweight) and there should be no concern with rider weights. However, our sub-15 wheelset is recommended for a maximum weight of 225 pounds (rider and cargo). Over this weight, the wheelset won't necessarily fail, but will not perform optimally and ...

What are the maximum size tires that fit on the Wabi frames?

Our guidelines for maximum recommended tire width is as follows: Classic and Special: 32mm Lightning: 28mm (Note: certain tires that run wide/large may not fit as a 28c and will require a smaller size). Urban and Thunder: 44mm Note that rim width and tire profile may impact these clearances. We ...

Are you bikes single speed, fixed gear or both? What's the difference?

To start, Wabis can run single speed (i.e. freewheel) or fixed. Every build we ship actually comes with a freewheel or fixed gear on the flip-flop hub so you can ride both ways by flipping the rear wheel. Now, let's discuss the difference especially as some people will sometimes use these terms ...

Are your bikes or frames compatible with threaded headsets or forks?

Sorry, but no. Our bikes are specifically designed for threadless headsets and forks. While we understand the allure of threaded headsets and forks, a threadless setup provides more options for adjusting the locations of your handlebars--by allowing different stem lengths and angles--as well as m...

Do you still carry the dual fixed cog?

Sorry, but we do not. The factory that we worked with began to require very large order quantities that were not feasible for us. Unfortunately, we haven't found an alternative.

How do I get a more relaxed fit on a Wabi?

When buying or modifying a Wabi build, you can do things to make the ride more relaxed (ie more comfortable). Typically, this means making the rider more upright or having less reach (especially downward) from the saddle to the handlebars. Our frames, on average, have 3" of vertical drop from the...

How do you protect your frames from rust or corrosion?

Our steel frames are E.D. coated to act as a rust preventative and a primer. This high-performance rust inhibitor is applied inside the frame and out. Paint or powder coat is then applied to the outside for another layer of protection. NOTE: While we take measures to prevent rust, the rider must...

How often do you change your frame colors? How long will a frame color be in stock?

In general, we offer two colors for every model or frameset at all times. We tend to introduce at least one new color per model / frameset about every 6 - 8 months depending on the model. If you are looking for a different color then what's in stock, you can always do a custom color as described...

What are my gearing options? Can I change my gear ratio or setup?

Wabi can set up your gearing anyway you like for bike builds using our available gears. You can specify your gearing preference in the checkout comments or contact us after your order. Stock gear options We offer a variety of gears that should serve most riders needs: For chainrings, we offer 4...

What are the differences between the Wabi saddles?

The Wabi saddles differ in length, width, profile and weight depending on the needs of different riders. Wabi Racing Saddle Our most popular option, this saddle is geared for those looking for a narrower, shorter profile--including a more bent-down saddle nose--for maximum performance. This sa...

What are the fender options for Wabis?

Wabis can accept different options for fenders depending on the model. Classic The Classic can accept some limited options of full coverage bolt-on fenders (with modifications) along with strap/clip-on fenders. Bolt-on full coverage fenders The Classic has eyelets on the inside of the front f...

What if my wheel(s) arrive out of true?

Wabi will stress and true all wheels before shipping on both individual wheel and wheelset sales and full builds. However, there is a small chance that the wheels may get slightly out-of-true during the shipping process and may need some minor re-truing upon arrival. Out-of-true is when there is ...

Where does Wabi source its Wabi-branded products?

Wabi sources all of our branded products directly from well-regarded manufacturers or suppliers in Taiwan, a country know for high quality bike components. Some items, like frames and wheelsets, are designed specifically for us based on proprietary designs. Other items are unbranded versions of e...

Which cranksets are compatible with Wabi framesets?

Classic and Thunder Update: Classics were updated in Spring 2023 with a new chainstay design. These frames can now accommodate all track cranksets like the Special and Lightning. Older Classics will only fit as listed below. The Classic (pre-2023( and Thunder will only accommodate cranksets wit...

Which upgrades do you offer? What about upgrade packages?

Check out our Wabi Options Explained page for a complete overview of stock options and upgrades. Don't see something? Just ask and we may be able to get it for you.

Why do you use 3/32" chains and drivetrains instead of 1/8"?

Many fixed/SS bikes use a 1/8" drivetrain vs. a 3/32" drivetrain (which is standard for road bikes). We use 3/32" for a few reasons: Weight: 3/32" chains are lighter weight. Yes, it is a small amount, but every gram counts. :-) Noise: 3/32" chains tend to be quieter - especially if the chainline...