What the heck is powder coating?

Powder coating is a type of dry coating, which is applied as a microscopic powder drawn to a metal object charged with static electricity. The main difference between a conventional liquid paint and a powder coating is that the powder coating does not require a solvent to keep the binder and filler parts in a liquid suspension form. Excess powder can be recovered and used - so the waste byproducts are minimized. The coating is typically applied and is then cured under heat (around 400 degrees) to allow it to flow and form a "skin." Powder coating is a hard finish that is tougher than conventional paint. Thus, the abuse you toss at your dummy won't register like the damage you do to your rattle-can beater you picked up at the flea market.

What is Xtracycle exactly offering?

First, and foremost, we're offering you an amazing cargo bicycle made by Surly bicycle designed to the Xtracycle Longtail Standard. Second, with the purchase of a powder coated Big Dummy frameset you're getting a professional quality paint job in a selection of hues – something few, if anyone, is offering. Xtracycle also offers a custom Big Dummy Build program that draws on over 10 years experience seeking the right components and ride quality for Longtail bicycles.

Custom orders will require a non-refundable deposit, which will be counted towards the final purchase price once your custom color is selected. With the deposit you'll receive a packet of available custom colors and options. If you select the Big Dummy Build program, we will contact you via telephone to begin the process. Custom build programs are dealt with on a case-by-case basis and will charge for consultation labor over and above 1 hour.

Please allow 3-4 weeks for processing any Matte Black, Basic Solids, Metallics or Custom Color Big Dummy frameset.

No returns allowed for painted framesets or custom builds, so choose your size, colors and parts wisely. We're here to help you out, so don't hesitate to contact us at 888-537-1401 or email us at info@xtracycle.com.

©2009 Xtracycle, Inc.