guybierhaus

Entry 1 - Start

I’ve started a project to build a bike. It is nothing special, a used 1999
Cannondale R800 frame and carbon fork from ebay. Probably paid too much,
but liked the color. My reason to build is to understand better how todays
bikes go together and to make something that fits my idea of what I want to
ride. I also like to wrench but I’m tired of working on my car. I have some
ability as a back yard auto mechanic and formal training by the USMC as a
helicopter mechanic. As a result I have many tools. I’m presenting my project
here with the 50 plus forum as that is where I hang out. Not expecting to get
into too much of the mechanics; although you all can offer your 2 cents, should
you seem compelled.

The bike will be thrown together with lots of Nashbar parts. I’m using the
Nashbar compact double crank and a Nashbar extra high stem. I will be
building with a flat bar and picked up new Deore shifters/brake levers on ebay.
Got a long cage (whatever that means) Deore rear deraileur, suitable for the
11t x 34t cassette I ordered. So will have lots of gear range. Wheels are
currently Alex 450, my extra set from my Trek 1000. I’m at 255 lbs, so will be
staying with 36 spokes for awhile. I did want to fit 28m tyres to hopefully
permit some riding on packed trails, although I prefer roads.

My immediate problem is a name for what I’m building, and I believe you guys
and gals may have a suggestion, FUBAR is not acceptable. I thought of
R800GT, but GT is so cliché. Maybe Yellow Jacket, taking in account the color,
although that doesn’t strike my fancy as I’ve been stung by them too often.
Attach starting photo, missing parts on order. Brakes I’m still trying to snag a
pair at ebay.