Where are the bicycles made?
Today, AEGIS remains a proud family owned Maine company of truly skilled and dedicated craftspeople. We have been making carbon fiber bicycles since 1986 and are the oldest carbon frame maker in the U.S. Our rich history with advanced materials and patented, race-proven technology combined with our Maine-Made craftsmanship yield bicycles of exceptional quality, performance, durability and value. 

What colors are available?
If you can dream it, we can usually make it a reality. While single colors and weaves are still popular, most of our frames come standard with a one of a kind gorgeous paint scheme.

What sizes do frames come in?
Personally, I think that AEGIS hasn't always had the best selection of sizes on all models. So, over the past 2 years (since January of 2005), we have focused on making sure that we can fit most riders from 4'11" to 6'5" on at least a couple different models. Obviously the 5'10" male has the most selection, but the Aro Svelte, Victory, Trident (650c and 700c) and ZAERO have full size runs and the T2, Pavé (formerly Shaman) should by mid 2007. The Swift is geared toward the smaller rider so it's top tubes are limited to 48-49cm. I do believe we do now offer the most complete size and model run of any carbon bike line.

How long does a special order take?
A special order takes 3-4 days (yes, this used to say weeks... but, we can now usually get a special order out of the factory in less than 5 business days). Custom lay-ups, such as Clydesdale/Athena versions may take longer.

Why are the chain stays bent?
Our chain stays were designed this way and made shorter to allow for better power transfer in climbing/sprinting. They are stiffer, aerodynamic, and add design flair to the bike. Test ride one to see for yourself.

Should I lube my seat post?
Yes, every 30-60 days with the older "binder" bolt systems. If you have one, you know it. Just taking it out and wiping it off should help prevent seizing of the post.

What makes an AEGIS better than a ...?
While our patented technique is being duplicated (I use that word loosely) by many traditional "metal" U.S. and international frame builders in 5 or 6 Taiwanese and Chinese factories, they all seem to be focusing on trying to use less and less carbon and creating a beautiful bike that rides like aluminum. If you're going to spend the money on a carbon bike, buy one that's going to give you the best ride and the ability to turn your pedal strokes into forward motion. If you want to cut an extra couple of ounces, I'd recommend one less slice of Pizza on Friday nights and, at least for me, keep walking when I pass the Ben and Jerry's ice cream aisle. Bottom line - An AEGIS is, still, simply the world's finest carbon fiber frame - period! My Opinion! (and, yes, I'm biased.. but, I bought a number of frames before I bought the company!)

Is AEGIS the lightest Carbon Fiber Bike on the market?
While we do build extremely light bicycles (from 2.5 to 3.5 pounds), it has never been the ultimate goal to our product's development. To the contrary, our goal is to build the absolute best. Weight is a parameter we use as we focus on comfort, stiffness and the overall quality of ride.

What does this all mean?
When a framebuilder chooses to focus on the ultimate lightweight frame, it has been our experience that other critical areas of the product are potentially compromised - most notably performance, durability, and ride quality. To build a lighter a frame, the frame builder must either 1) specify different raw materials or 2) use less material. For example, some carbon builders boast of utilizing a high modulus carbon fibers in their frame construction. AEGIS frames and forks begin with a single strand of 50k intermediate modulus carbon fibers. The use of intermediate modulus fibers in all AEGIS products was a strategic decision to focus on product performance, comfort and durability. Other carbon fiber bicycle manufacturers have chosen to utilize high or enhanced (stiff) modulus carbon fiber and low void' technology; however, the result is thin wall tubing that's more prone to failure and damage upon impact, while offering a little more comfort than a harsh riding alloy frame. When building our frames out of this same material, we saw too a decline in the overall durability and ride quality. We still experiment with different carbons, but, after 20 years, we know how we want the end product to feel and respond.

The ultimate merit to AEGIS has always been that it's simply the best riding bicycle that will last a lifetime and will prove to be a trusted companion. While we remain in the constant pursuit of developing better, stronger, more responsive, and lighter bicycles, we are not willing to jeopardize the very things that have made our company and bicycles legendary- ride quality and durability.

In addition, each AEGIS frame offers many exclusive features, not found on other carbon bicycles. While these AEGIS-exclusive features do add some weight, they serve strategic functions for increased durability, build quality and most importantly, overall owner satisfaction.

For example, most other carbon frame builders opt for gluing or pop riveting alloy frame components on to the frame. At AEGIS, all alloy frame components (cable guides, front derailleur braze on mounts, water bottle screws, etc) are affixed to the frame via screws into alloy anchor reinforcements imbedded within the carbon. While this is does slightly add weight, it's worth every bit. A great deal of frustration can be caused by such a small part.

Another example of "quality vs. ultimate light weight" is AEGIS' use of a cro-moly insert in the top and bottom section of the head tube (with aluminum sandwiched between). While this is slightly heavier than the aluminum found in other frames, cro-moly resists ovalization and holds a better face. Finally, our drop outs - they're a beefy, replaceable. 6061 T-6 aluminum with micro- adjusting screws. Our customers appreciate this every time an accident happens.

How do I know which size is best for me?
Talk to your bike shop or coach. Sizing a frame is probably the most important part of the process and, probably the best way of sizing, these days is to look at the top tube length, or cockpit. With frames with "dropped top tubes" to allow shorter head tubes, seat tube measurement is not always so accurate. Our T2, with a 52cm seat tube actually fits like a 55-56cm frame. Good shops offer fitting these days. Great shops offer fitting based on your riding style. Make sure that who ever is fitting you understands your riding history, objectives and goals.

If you have any questions about which size you need or if you would like us to recommend a fitter in your area, please call us at 1-877-33-AEGIS.

Do you make bikes for Women?
Our Swift was designed for women and it's geometry has been copied by major manufacturers for years. But, let me tell you my philosophy on how we size our frames. Chances are, most individuals looking at a 46-52cm frame are women. So, when I decide on the mold sizes, I configure these sizes towards a women's geometry with a proportionally shorter top tube. On the other hand, if you're looking at a 58-62 cm frame, you're most likely a man and the geometry is set that way. But, no matter, if you've read above, you know that I believe that the most important measurement is the top tube and we try to create a size run that will fit most people.. not all.. but, most.

Bottom line.. If the cockpit is right and the standover is good, most everything else is adjustable. Call us for more information.