Track Cycling - Newbie - Needs some help

Hi,
Just got first track bike - Mercier Kilo TT. Ok, so it's not the best but I like the frame and love the woman who got it for me! I can't find out what kind of headset or size I need so I can replace it. I also want to replace stem (quill type) but I don't know the diameter that'll work - I do know I want a Zero degree 110mm but what diameter?. I checked the specs on Bikesdirect but got nowhere. They only say quill for the stem and don't tell me exactly what size or type headset they use. I also need to replace the BB as the one on there is "splinned" whatever that means and most cranksets need a tapered square? Would appreciate any suggestions and help. I could go to a store but rather do it myself.


Thanks
Rich sept2749

looking at the BD site, if yours came with a quill stem then you have a 1" threaded headset. If you want to replace it (but if it works you really don't need to) then you need to make sure the replacement has a stack height equal to or less than the current one, which you'll have to measure. If the new one is shorter then you can add spacers. If it's taller you're SOL.

Can't tell from the site what cranks they use, but you might be able to by looking at what you got and what's on this page: http://sheldonbrown.com/harris/bottombrackets.html

there are two different (and incompatible) spline systems-- ISIS and Shimano Octalink (which has two different and incompatible versions).

Thanks for your help - it's a great start and appreciated.

Rich

Thanks for the info. Here is another question if you don't mind. I wrote to Bikesdirect and they told me I had a square tapered sealed bottom bracket with standard English threading. I want to change cranks but don't want to get in over my head. On the spec sheet they say I have a sealed 103mm BB. if they are correct is the square tapered config. compatable with many cranks?

Rich

I have a Mercier Kilo TT and want to replace hubs and wheels. I may be able to get front and rear velocity wheelset with Paul hubs. The spec sheet on these hubs says the chainline is 44mm. I'm under the impression that most track bikes have a 42mm chainline. Will I be able to fit these beautiful hubs/wheels on my bike without riping my hair out?

Any info on this matter will be greatly appreciated

Rich

Square taper is the old standard, and is still standard for many track bikes, specially here in Japan(NJS Keirin system). Sugino 75, Sugino Mighty, Campagnolo, Shimano Dura Ace 7600, and old Suntour Superbe Pro (if you're lucky enough to find a set) are all great cranks that use the square taper bottom bracket. However, I think 103mm might be a little narrow? I think the most common is 109mm for the above mentioned cranksets.

Thank you - that's what I thought. What about hubs and chainline? Can I use a 44mm chainline or can I adapt 42 to 44?

Rich

OK, now I'm a bit curious-- Why are you changing out so much stuff?

OK, now I'm a bit curious-- Why are you changing out so much stuff?

Frame, wheels, hubs, headset, and bars are all fine as it comes but I like a more personal machine. Hope that does it for you. Want to thank everyone for all the help I've received since my first post. You guys are the best!



Rich sept2749