Forum

Having just bought a new bike I'm hoping it will last a while without too much input from me

But.....

How easy is it to buy a load of odd bits off eBay and build a bike, I really fancy building a bike for chits and giggles, the main problem being I'm pretty useless with the tools but that's never stopped me trying

I don't really need a bike but it seems a good way to learn and im sure I could use a spare (mines in the shop today for example)

The main issues are compatibility. eg. what size seat tube, what headset, what tools to fit a BB.

Not complicated once you know, but can stump you if you don't.

Easiest way would be to choose a frame and ask questions as you go.

The forum becomes your best friend while you build.

I agree..it can be quite simple (Ive built mine up and building a cheapo one for my flatmate using bitys n bobs).

As Noel mentioned, its compatibilty that can be the problem, Ive had my sharenof bits that donmt fit, especially the confusing situationm with bottom brackets, 68/73 or 83mm ?. How long ?, ISCG or ISCG 05 ?, etc..My bike (Commencal DH) uses a mish-mash of them all and various wahser to get the chain guide all lined up nicely.

Best advice I can give is to regullary read tech forum,s online and get some magazines. Some sites such as Pinkbike post up weekly tutorial videos, easiset is just to jump in and get involved but be prapred to find some bits dont fit and have to return them or re-sell on ebay. I hjad an amsuing email from guy I bought ISCG cahin guide on Pinkbike when he realised I had done same as him, bought it, found it didnt fir, re-sell it !

Andy

I'm on the look out for a frame, something steel I think or at least retro style with the thinner tube.....and cheap

You may regret saying "ask the forum......."


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Well, if you get stuck mate, im on call if needed...... Built so many bikes now, its almost shameful, lol.

http://www.on-one.co.uk/i/q/FROO4561/on ... _evo_frame

or the bargainlicious

http://www.on-one.co.uk/i/q/FROOVDO126/ ... al_dropout

I'm currently keeping a diary of my first build here. To be honest I'm surprised how well it's gone so far, considering I have no tools and no real idea

Key is to work out the spec beforehand, make sure you know the diameters and the dimensions of every single part you're going to put on it, and it'll all go a lot smoother. Then read up as much as possible about fitting the complicated bits like the headset, and how to fit it without the proper tools.

It's awesome fun, I've been spending a few hours a night in the garage after work and it's great. Be careful though, and trawl the internet for bargains, otherwise it can get more expensive than just buying a pre-built one.

Buy a bike specific tool kit....

I have modified (see completely rebuild not bolt on spoilers) Cars for most of my adult life so i have stacks of tools etc, but i bought a £50 Ice Toolz kit when i bought my frame and it was a wise investment, it has all the tools i need including the odd stuff all in one place, so £30 a time at a shop or one off payment of £50 and maintain / build yourself !

even cheaper now....
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00336W95C/ref=asc_df_B00336W95C7866838?smid=A78KJF5XDCZ5M&tag=hydra0b-21&linkCode=asn&creative=22218&creativeASIN=B00336W95C&hvpos=1o1&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=438627927589954818&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=

I know it's your fault I'm doing this

There's a build thread of my bike on my car club forum (beforei signed up on here) because my car is kinda done LOL
Its basically just a bunch of pics but you get the idea....

http://www.unitylowriderforum.net/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=1943