build a bicycle

The steerer tube/fork bearings are now inoperable. Handlebars won’t turn. So it’s time to change the bearings- but hey, while I’m at it why not change the fork to something lighter too, like a carbon fibre part weighing in at 854g!

I picked up another bike today.. A nice Diamondback Hardtail Apex (MTB). I am still thinking about the road frame though and have been still selecting parts for it. Worst case: I buy another more modern frame to build; best case, i use the one I have and get a paint job. I need a road bike though.

CyclArt wants $670 for my custom job. Hmm.. Still deciding.

Right now I am considering getting it painted before I do anything. The frame was purchased with over 15% sanded and the surface paint is scratched off in a few places. It will be spendy though, well over a several hundred USD. Place is http://www.cyclart.com in San Diego; and they appear to be highly regarded. Next.. what kinda color assimilation trouble can I get into with the components?

I bought a used frame for $50 off of CL (28.9.08). It’s an aluminum Specialized M-2, 57cm road frame, quite light. I should have gone with a 58cm, but i can always get another one. Let the fun begin.

Curiosity.

This project is very rewarding and doesn’t consume an enormous amount of time. The knowledge gained also comes in handy when it’s time to maintain your bike. DIY is definitely the way to go.

hi, i have decided to build a bike as a personal project, but i would like to actually complete this project and do it well. could anyone tell me where i can get parts, how i can do this, or anything else that could help me start. i dont usually build things from scratch, i have always bought my bikes in the past, and i am completely clueless right now. any help anyone can give me would make me extremely happy and a little less stressed about this project. thanks!

It was more of a rebuild than a build, but I’m counting it since I stripped it down to nothing and redid everything.

It was easier than I thought, and I will be doing it again.

I’d build a Surly Long Haul Trucker. I think the steel frame solid construction of such a bike frame will be the perfect starter for my long term touring and commuting bike.