Buying any bike is a statement, but paying $1,300 for a custom made, aluminum Rock Lobster is a Statement. Whether you like it or not, it says that you value performance and value over aesthetics and the current group-think. It's a pretty bold territory to stake – there are good reasons why there are such few inhabitants. PEZ rides one for a month to see how well it lives there.

Paul Sadoff has been building custom bike frames for over 30 years under the name Rock Lobster. His candid, unassuming attitude and accessible pricing is a breath of fresh air in these NAHBSy times where art is often prized over substance and proven experience. PEZ finds out what makes this odd ball of sanity tick.