Questions tagged [build]

Building a bike starting with a frame and adding components to it. If you're starting with tubes that's "framebuilding".

Filter by
Sorted by
Tagged with
4 votes
1 answer
116 views

Which geometry specifications determine the seating position of an MTB?

MTB manufacturers release geometry data for their bikes. If I want to know if a bike has a more upright or stretched position, which geometry data do I have to compare?
JohnnyFromBF's user avatar
0 votes
3 answers
344 views

Building a carbon gravel bicycle - Shimano 105 7020 vs GRX RX600/800

I've got into cycling around 2 years ago, mainly going to the office and cycling around the city/when traveling. Thing of 2 months ago started with long-distance and speed experimentation, and ...
leonacostaok's user avatar
9 votes
2 answers
597 views

What small parts should I be mindful of when buying a frameset?

I have a project of building a touring bike from scratch by cherry picking every component. I started looking at some potential framesets. One of the candidates is the Surly Disc Trucker. I can see on ...
olliebulle's user avatar
  • 4,111
1 vote
2 answers
87 views

Australia: I'd love to build a budget urban bike on a budget, where can I find parts like frames and wheels at prices comparable to bike shop builds? [closed]

I would love to own a low maintenance functionality/comfort focused bike. I am thinking: 8 speed internal hub belt driven relaxed geometry touring/cruiser handlebars pannier rack aluminium frame ...
David Alsh's user avatar
4 votes
2 answers
2k views

Installing a Rohloff Hub on a Surly Ogre

I just bought a Surly Ogre (2022) and want to convert it to a Rohloff hub - but am having a really difficult time finding what I need - i.e., info, parts, etc. I plan to do a lot of touring but also ...
Greg's user avatar
  • 203
4 votes
3 answers
555 views

Surly Straggler fixed gear build

For now, I live in a city and I have a surly steamroller frame that is very convenient for commuting everyday life. I will soon live in a small village from about 15km my work and I need to ride on ...
Smilia's user avatar
  • 253
1 vote
2 answers
4k views

How to calculate what BB spindle length I need for a mystery crankset?

I'm building up a bike frame with spare/junk components to be my beater bike for commuting. It will be a single speed, chainline on my rear wheel is 42mm. I have a crank set to use, but I'm not sure ...
Loralrose's user avatar
4 votes
4 answers
1k views

How to recognize a cheap from a quality steel frame

I decided to build my own bike. Went to a bike shop, took the first broken bike they had for 40 euro that I kind of liked and fixed it up to a nice (what I think) build (thanks RJ bike guy videos) (...
Luca Matteis's user avatar
  • 1,025
6 votes
2 answers
426 views

Questions about Boost frames and cranksets

I made the plunge and have purchased a new 2016 Stumpjumper FSR carbon frame. The post on eBay--from the Specialized Outlet Store, no less--was incorrect when it stated the frame had 142mm rear ...
Jeff's user avatar
  • 9,747
0 votes
1 answer
390 views

Converting my city cross bike into gravel bike

I bought a bike (Stevens 6x lite tour) a little while ago. I've been riding it very often and i love it. I've been making 50-60 KMS rides on weekends on it. But now i wish I had drop handle bars ...
Shivarakshith Shetty's user avatar
2 votes
1 answer
175 views

Bike build recommendation

Im planning to build a gravel bike and I already have the following: Flared Drop bar Tiagra STI R7000 10S Deore M4100 Sprocket 11-42 700c Rims Marin Alps Series Frame What other components should I ...
Krix Ian's user avatar
2 votes
1 answer
3k views

Torque of the rails or torque of the post?

I am building a bike and I am using a saddle with carbon rails on an alloy seatpost. I read that it's not an issue as long as the shape of the clamps is compatible with the shape of the rails, and in ...
Alessandro Cosentino's user avatar
3 votes
4 answers
4k views

Can I cut the steerer tube with a pipe cutter?

I found out that Hozan lists a pipe cutter among its tools, and as far as I know all Hozan tools are made for bike mechanics. From one of the pictures it looks like this could be used to cut an ...
Alessandro Cosentino's user avatar
-2 votes
3 answers
152 views

Can someone please tell me what kind of frame this is

Can someone please tell me what kind of frame this is. Thanks
David Frey's user avatar
2 votes
3 answers
497 views

What are the times and costs involved in assembling a rideable bicycle from a salvaged frame?

Let's assume I bought a frame for XXX eur/usd/gbp. It usually is a steel frame from late '80s/90s, or an aluminium frame from the early '00s. The frame is of decent quality, it does not present ...
EarlGrey's user avatar
  • 3,480
0 votes
1 answer
107 views

Using Direct Mount brakes on braze on frame

I've just purchased a frame with a single hole in the middle (of the forks and on the rear bit where the rear brakes mount), and a pair of direct mount rim brakes. I was wondering if there was some ...
flying_loaf_3's user avatar
0 votes
2 answers
83 views

CDF touring build with mtb crankset and road shifters

I want to build a genesis croix de fer bike. The usage of this bike will be touring, with rear and front panniers, for an approximately 6 month autonomy travel. I am starting from zero, so there are ...
aguilbau's user avatar
1 vote
1 answer
613 views

Aluminum (6061) frame dropout squeeze

I have a bicycle with a 6061 aluminum frame. I had to replace the rear wheel, and I bought a wheel with an axle length that is a few mm short for the dropout spacing. In order to fit the axle into the ...
Ferenc 's user avatar
1 vote
1 answer
154 views

Can anyone help me identify this bicycle frame?

I recently bought this frame from a gentleman who bought a closed bike shop and builds and sells bikes from his 10 or more sheds full of parts. He teaches his church youth kids to build them as a way ...
DHawkmoth's user avatar
0 votes
2 answers
131 views

Resources for bicycle compatibility

I'm looking to build my own bicycle. The main thing I care about is compatibility. I've been researching around and have found various gold nuggets along the way: YouTube - How To Build A Bike From ...
mbigras's user avatar
  • 221
15 votes
7 answers
2k views

Learning how to build a bike: Is it better to buy a used bike and disassemble it?

As a summer project I decided to learn how to build a bike (from the comfort of my room). I have very little experience with bikes (I just ride a rented bike daily) and have no knowledge with fixing ...
Luca Matteis's user avatar
  • 1,025
4 votes
1 answer
878 views

Identify vintage bicycle brand

I don't know much about bicycles but I came across one that I want to offer to my nephew since he is into vintage race bikes. I would like to know the original brand of the bicycle/frame since I want ...
Victor Leite's user avatar
-1 votes
3 answers
240 views

Commuting road bike build [closed]

After a bit of research, I decided to build a road bike in order to commute. I'm not looking into buying one since I don't find it that interesting and personal. What used bike and parts should I buy ...
Marian Gartu's user avatar
0 votes
2 answers
115 views

Commuter/ road bike from a MTB frame

I have an entry-level 27.5 mountain bike and I will be moving to London this summer. Since I won't be riding it on trails anymore I thought I can keep the frame and wheels and build a commuter bike or ...
Marian Gartu's user avatar
3 votes
2 answers
393 views

Building up a 1988 Schwinn Circuit frame with new parts

I’m very new to vintage road bikes, I’ve had an 1988 Schwinn Circuit frame laying around for years. Is it possible to build it up using newer components? I understand that it originally came with an ...
Nick Alonge's user avatar
4 votes
3 answers
285 views

COVID bike build 2020 first timer

I am building my first road bike. I have been an avid biker rider for quite sometime and always thought about getting a road bike, just never got around to it. Fast forward to now, my neighbor (pro ...
DeanoTheKId's user avatar
2 votes
2 answers
3k views

Is there any builder site for bicycle?

Say you want to build entirely your own bike, from frame to ring bell. Is there a site that can help you with compatibility among all parts? Or maybe you just want to upgrade your crank set but you ...
Eliseo Ocampos's user avatar
4 votes
1 answer
199 views

What does the DIN number refer to ...?

I am working on understanding this document for an n55 trike frame build ... http://www.n55.dk/MANUALS/SPACEFRAMEVEHICLES/DIY.pdf Particularly this line: M6 SELFLOCKING NUTS, stainless (DIN985) - ...
jennifer's user avatar
  • 151
1 vote
3 answers
2k views

How can I connect two pieces of square aluminum tubing together to make a bike trailer using n55 docs?

Me and a friend are trying to build a trailer using principles found here ... http://www.n55.dk/MANUALS/SPACEFRAMEVEHICLES/DIY.pdf They are using 25 mm aluminum square tubing with a 2mm thickness ...
jennifer's user avatar
  • 151
1 vote
1 answer
329 views

How to adjust cable tension on Dura-Ace 7700 shifter

I have a Giant Defy 3 which came with Shimano Sora groupset. A friend gave me some older Dura Ace 7700 components in good condition so I'm upgrading most of the components including brakes, shifters, ...
Elliott B's user avatar
  • 390
-6 votes
1 answer
289 views

How to get or build Superman Swimming bicycle? [closed]

Human body front area depending on pose in case it will be possible to ride in horizontal position drag must be way smaller as front area will be at least 5x smaller. Pardo face down HPV design. ...
Jan's user avatar
  • 352
5 votes
4 answers
429 views

What are the benefits of purchasing a complete bike from a respectable brand? (Road cycling)

I've been into cycling (almost) my whole life. I've been riding BMX for over 20 years and since 5-6 years I've been doing a lot of road cycling. I ride contests, crits, TT's,... I've been looking to ...
Odyssee's user avatar
  • 161
1 vote
2 answers
262 views

Easiest bicycle to assemble? Single speed?

I have an XC MTB, a road bike and a trainer, which I maintain. I also do maintenance for the kids and wife's bikes. Today I replaced a cassette in my road bike - something that required special tools ...
Lech Rzedzicki's user avatar
1 vote
1 answer
206 views

Cost of trickle down on components

I enjoy buying used gear and building up bikes, but often wonder why some used/older components are only a fraction cheaper on sites such as eBay. For example, Shimano Ultegra 6600 10 speed shifters ...
Anonymous's user avatar
  • 113
1 vote
1 answer
860 views

Shimano 105 RD-5501 on a six speed freewheel?

I was doing a cleanup at the storage room and found a box of mint 105 parts (brakes, FD, RD, triple crankset and BB). Based on the newspaper inside the box, the parts were laying there for at least 10 ...
Andrew's user avatar
  • 205
2 votes
1 answer
178 views

Use disc fork on an Lynskey R260?

I got a great deal for a Lynskey R260, that is set for caliper brakes. I'm building my first bike from scratch and am thinking of using disc brakes on the front fork. Is there any reason why I wouldn'...
pedram's user avatar
  • 123
5 votes
2 answers
4k views

Ideal distance between chainring and chain stay

I am building a single speed bicycle, and I have most of the drivetrain parts: Rear hub 18T rear cog (40-40.5mm ideal rear chainline -- wheel undished) 1/8" chain crankset with 40T chainring I used ...
Robert's user avatar
  • 2,051
1 vote
1 answer
86 views

How to find a fitting drivetrain

I'm currently building up a new bike from a vintage Scott Windriver MTB frame. My plan is to install a Shimano Zee 10-Speed drivetrain because I don't really need more gears in my area, I want it to ...
Equi's user avatar
  • 175
1 vote
1 answer
318 views

What tool do I need to press fit a "Spanish" bottom bracket?

I bought a BMX style bottom bracket called a "Spanish" bottom bracket for a dirt jumper. Instead of using a hammer and a block of wood, I would like to do it correctly with a press... ...
Kellen Stuart's user avatar
2 votes
1 answer
675 views

What do these headset specs mean?

I'm building this frame from the ground up: https://www.deitycomponents.com/cryptkeeper_frame.html The specs for the headset say: IS 52/40 Lower Bearing (Tapered Steerer) IS 52/30 Lower Bearing (...
Kellen Stuart's user avatar
1 vote
1 answer
371 views

Building a Dirt Jump Bike - Spanish Bottom Bracket?

I'm putting together a Deity Cryptkeeper and confused about which bottom bracket to buy... The specs say: spanish 73mm Bottom Bracket Does this mean 73mm wide and 37mm diameter bearing?
Kellen Stuart's user avatar
4 votes
1 answer
1k views

Steps to remove Ultegra and install SRAM Force disc brakes with internally routed hose

I have a CAAD12 disc with Ultegra, but I prefer SRAM, so I have got some nice new Force levers & calipers that I need to fit. This is my first experience with disc brakes. The front setup isn't a ...
ilikeprogramming's user avatar
0 votes
1 answer
74 views

Single Speed Newbie Build [closed]

So I just got Peugeot bike frame that I'd like to make into my regular commuter. I had a KHS triathalon single speed for a few years that a road day and night from city to city, putting miles on it. ...
BikeAgeddon's user avatar
1 vote
2 answers
247 views

How much of a mark-up do you pay building your own?

So, I have read the pros and cons question, and the why it is more expensive question, but I didn't notice anything on how much more expensive it would be. So, if I want to buy a high-end bike a ...
HAEM's user avatar
  • 1,060
1 vote
2 answers
571 views

When is it worth rebuilding a frame?

I found a discarded 'mongoose alta' frame and an 'araya - japan' front wheel. It's missing the rear wheel and the seat (no seat post either) Looks like the gear change is still in very good shape... ...
Manuel's user avatar
  • 67
0 votes
1 answer
246 views

Why is my bike looking so light yet so cheap as I make a list of what I need to build it?

I've been searching around to get a rough price for a home-built carbon fibre bike. I'm almost sure I've left something out though as my bike looks like it will be weighing a mere 5.8kg for only €1230!...
Rowan Harley's user avatar
3 votes
2 answers
2k views

Installing downtube shifters with no clamp

I am trying to convert my Schwinn Mountain bike into a road bike. I bought a set of Shimano SL-SY20A 3 (2) x 7 Speed Down-Tube Shifters. they have a clamp attached but my downtube is very wide and the ...
Ramon Poisson's user avatar
4 votes
1 answer
3k views

Cross top Levers as primary brake

Has anyone ever tried to use Cross Top levers as your only braking method (ie not just as an interrupter for the drop levers)? I'm guessing it wouldn't work as you need the cable to go straight ...
Darren L's user avatar
  • 219
3 votes
3 answers
4k views

How to lace a 36 hole 4x9 grouped spokes?

does anybody have any information on how to lace a 36 hole 4x9 grouped spokes? I am thinking to buy a set of rims of this make, but I am not sure how to lace it. Can I cross the spokes or do I have ...
Paolo Goatspeed's user avatar
4 votes
3 answers
4k views

Alternatives to Long Drop Calipers

Anyone have a clue what type of brake I can fit to this front fork? The reach to a 700C wheel would need to be 80MM (do you even get calipers this long?) and the only brazing on the fork is this ...
Darren L's user avatar
  • 219