Bike builders

[Sbudge]

So, the inevitable upgrading of my bike has now left me with (almost) enough parts to build a pretty decent extra bike. However I doubt I've either the time or, more importantly, the abilities to build one. How do I find a reasonable bike mechanic to do the job? To be honest my LBS isn't really interested if they're not supplying the majority of the bits.

Or do I just say "stuff it" and sell the parts?

Budge

 

[Milkfloat]

I would find it more effort to sell each part than to build up a bike and certainly a lot less fun. But to answer your question you may be better off trying to find a mobile mechanic type business or if you are a member of a club I bet there would be loads of people interested who would do it for a few beers or cakes.

 

[Cubist]

Bike building is a breeze. Sort of.

Generally speaking, all components are modular, inasmuch as they simply bolt on without needing to alter them or the thing you are bolting them onto. OK, you need to be certain they are all compatible with your frame and each other, but it takes some pretty rare combinations to mean they don't. As long as the BB standards are compatible with your crank, the wheel axles are the same width as the dropouts, the steerer is compatible with your headtube or you can get a headset to fit the two together, and your seatpost is the same as the seat tube, then go for it. Without boasting, a full build from scratch with compatible parts would be an enjoyable evening in the garage with a beer.

Go for it. You will learn a hell of a lot about your bike, your self and your abilities. It may take a few days, but Youtube is full of helpful "How To" guides. The previously mythical "indexing" of gears will evaporate into "what was so hard about that?" and as long as you are prepared to invest in a few essential tools, then you will provide yourself with a newfound sense of pride and ownership.

 

[raleighnut]

^^^^^^^^^+1, just take your time and enjoy the process.

 

[vickster]

I had a bike built from all supplied parts by LBS in Worcester Park, easily accessed by car from West Hampstead. In fact they built two bikes swapping over parts various. Guess it depends on your budget, but they'd do it for under £100

Depends if you'd ever use the stand and tools you'd need to acquire again

 

[Sbudge]

I had a bike built from all supplied parts by LBS in Worcester Park, easily accessed by car from West Hampstead. In fact they built two bikes swapping over parts various. Guess it depends on your budget, but they'd do it for under £100

Depends if you'd ever use the stand and tools you'd need to acquire again

Cool, that might help, thanks.