building my own bike (tips/howto)

[carchaser]

I'm not after the usual "which frame/components/grouppo/etc." question that usually comes along with this type of thread subject. Instread I'm wanting to find out about the specifics involved in building a bike up from nothing but a frame. I'm going to be building a bike soon and I am really interested in having the experience of building it up completely. I don't know if it's just a silly sense of accomplishment that iI want but it seems like fun. So, are there any tips, guidelines that you can recommend? Links? Should I track down a local bike builder and have them do it with me since it'll be the first time? Thanks.

 

[GuyStevens]

Do you have all the specialist tools required? I would say good quality allen keys, cable cutters, bottom bracket tool and grease are the minimum. A torque wrench is also advisable.

Get your local bike shop to fit the headset cups, star-fangled aheadset nut (if applicable) and to clean out the bottom bracket threads.

You're then ready to start building. Just take your time and follow any component instructions you have. For some tips on cable installation have a look at this page:

http://www.sheldonbrown.com/cables.html#vbrake

 

[MidBunchLurker]

Also check out park tool's site www.parktool.com - lots of useful mechanic info...

 

[drewski]

a decent workstand helps. i've got a minoura alien which cost me less than $100 and i think it works great. especially for the price

 

[lawyering]

I am suffering from the same need to build a bike. I am now half way through it and finding that its not rocket science. The hardest part was dealing with the removal of the old and installation of the new BB. I wish that I had the threads professionally cleaned. I also bought used frames with good headsets already installed. The process is helping me better understand my bike. (I will be selling most of the ones I build).

Good luck to you.