Build-a-bike: wheel clearance, internal routing and other questions

[dhd.evans1]

I have come into possession of a Giant Defy 2014 frame and forks.

I already have my road machine so why not make this into a gravel bike? I'll get the frame painted etc.

Some immediate questions I have:

- Can i just slap wider tyres on the wheelset? Other than "the wheels don't go round because there's not enough space" is there anything i should be looking out for? The frame is rim brake oriented.
- My other bikes have internal cable routing as standard; is there precedent and possibility to convert this frame with a responsibly used drill?
- Does anyone have a spare Ultegra front brake (6600) and/or 105 crankset they'd want to give me?

 

[Sharky]

The frame is rim brake oriented

This is probably the limiting factor. If you go much wider than 28mm tyres, you may find it difficult getting the tyre between the brake shoes. May have to deflate the tyre before trying to remove or put back on, which is a hassle or even impossible.