Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - would this be a good frame for a SS?

i'm looking to buy complete or build a SS. is there anything about it that jumps out negatively?

http://cgi.ebay.com/Raleigh-Super-Course-lugged-steel-track-fixie-fixed_W0QQitemZ290401130758QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item439d419906

as long as you don't mind spending at least 300 or 400 dollars on bb, wheels, stem, handlebar, seat, seatpost, etc... it is a pretty frame though.

as long as you don't mind spending about 300 or 400 dollars on bb, wheels, stem, handlebar, seat, seatpost, etc... it is a pretty frame though.

yep, i know. i am trying to get rid of my alu hybrid in favor of a lugged steel road/SS bike to keep at my office.
ideally, i like the cinelli supercorsa look, but that's obviously out of my league. chrome lugs, classic design is what i'm going for.

i saw this too - Traitor cycles - it's not quite as "traditional" but it is complete and new and will require a lot less work.
http://www.traitorcycles.com/images/Luggernaut_Green_6.jpg

also in the running is the specialized allez steel. but that's not a SS.

The super course is a much much prettier bike. I'd want to see some full frame shots before I hit the bid button; the photo of the head tube and fork has some distortion which I think is in the photo. But I'd rather be sure before bidding.

Keep in mind ghoul's estimate assumes you are buying all those parts new. You can do it a good deal cheaper. I built a PX frame into a fixed gear for under 150$ total, with handbuilt wheels (by me). It depends how comfortable you are with your own mechanical abilities, and how good you are at scrounging/finding parts.

Problem with Traitor, right now, is pretty much all of their frames are out of stock. I think if the frame is in good condition (no huge dents, no bent fork/steerer/etc) then the frame will suit the purpose fine. But those pictures... Yeah..

Too bad the seller didn't give you better photos to base your decision on. I'm with poguemahone. I'd like to see some better pictures especially with the seller's track record.

ya, i see what you're saying. while i am pretty confident that i could build the bike on my own (they're just screws and chains, after all), i'm inclined not to spend the money on tools and time.

I might just concentrate more on selling my Jamis and use the money for a steelie.

Thanks for pointing out traitor. Interesting bikes. Like the looks of that Rubens commuter...

Poor pictures and a bad feedback record would be a deal breaker for me. It's a shame because otherwise that would be a nice frame.

Poor pictures and a bad feedback record would be a deal breaker for me. It's a shame because otherwise that would be a nice frame.

The record is bad only because seller has only 7 sales in one year and just 1 negative results in a bad percentage. Also, that 1 negative rating is total BS from a stupid buyer with a feedback rating of only 3. It was totally unjustified. I always read the actually feedback to separate the valid complaints from the crap that some idiot buyer's leave.

Yeah, just screws and chains and stuff... Ever repacked a loose ball BB or Headset? Do you have a torque wrench?

Yeah, just screws and chains and stuff... Ever repacked a loose ball BB or Headset? Do you have a torque wrench?

Yes, you'll need tools. No, SS bikes are not difficult to work on, even with very limited mechanical experience, if you're willing to put in the effort.

The record is bad only because seller has only 7 sales in one year and just 1 negative results in a bad percentage. Also, that 1 negative rating is total BS from a stupid buyer with a feedback rating of only 3. It was totally unjustified. I always read the actually feedback to separate the valid complaints from the crap that some idiot buyer's leave.

Maybe "bad" is a bit of an extreme word, and that 1 negative is BS. But when flipping through the pages of his feedback the seller also has multiple neutrals and another negative, which when taking into account a short description and mediocre photos raises a red flag to me.

also in the running is the specialized allez steel. but that's not a SS.

What about the steel Langster?

http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?spid=45784&eid=4354

http://www.specialized.com/OA_MEDIA/2010/bikes/9007-92_d.jpg

i wouldnt go with that raleigh track off ebay. from what i can see, its not drilled for brakes. and brakes are a pretty crucial part of a ss

Yes, buy it!

It has character, heritage and soul that you'll not get with a modern frame. I'm riding an old Bob Jackson SS conversion and have had more compliments than my friend on his new Serotta. Love the lugs.

Sam in Cincy

I'll have to agree with 'skid on me' when it comes to buying from eBay. I would look locally through Craigslist. Being able to look at a bike from sketchy, or even good photos, vs being able to look at a bike first hand, are two completely different things. Depending on your location, you should be able to find a decent older frame easier, and possibly cheaper. Also, if you have a co-op, definitely try that out.

Of course, you must have not read the whole title. " Raleigh Super Course lugged steel track fixie fixed"

These titles get really annoying after a while. I see why it is done, but still...