uprightbent

Who makes a reasonably priced steel road frameset similar to the Surly frames, but one that will accept a threaded Nitto style stem? I'm familiar with Soma and I'm sure I could find an older frame with some effort. Rivendell seems to be the answer but while lugged would be ideal I don't want to pay that much right now. The Surly LHT seems like the best bet but I can't get excited over those colors and I don't want threadless.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

sstorkel

Won't any frame accept a headset designed to be used with threaded forks?

uprightbent

I should clarify my obvious stupidity since this will be my first build. I guess I meant I want a frameset with matching fork where I won't be required to cut the steerer tube and end up with what I think is a not so attractive mess of spacers and clamp on stems. So maybe what I need is a frame that won't require me to change the fork to a threaded one?

sstorkel

No matter what type of fork you buy, you're going to have to cut the steerer tube. And both styles of headset may require spacers. If you look-up "headset" on Sheldon Brown's website, you'll see pictures of both threaded and threadless forks with spacers installed.

Practically speaking, the threadless system is the way the entire industry is moving and there are numerous advantages over a threaded steerer and quill stem. Threaded forks are getting harder and harder to find, which doesn't help you much. If you don't like the look of a bike that has a stack of cheesy $3 bike shop spacers, there are multiple companies that will sell you nicely machined single-piece spacers in a variety of lengths, diameters, and colors. Chris King is probably the best known, but there are multiple options. And if you don't want the spacers, cut the fork tube shorter... assuming you can live with the geometry that implies. You might also look for an aluminum frame that uses and integrated headset; I think those tend to look pretty clean.

If none of that works, you might get the most flexibility by buying a fork separate from the frame and having it repainted or powder coated to match...

stokessd

I'd want a spacer or two in either a threaded or threadless headset. On my touring bike I've got a threaded headset with a very thin lockwasher, and a cantilever brake cable hanger, then the locknut. I'd love to add one of the snazzy velo-orange bell holders that replaces a spacer, but I can't because I don't have enough steerer. Think of a spacer or two as a get-out-of-jail-free card that will allow you to add accessories if needed. I wouldn't add 5 inches of them, but a small quantity strikes me as good insurance.

I find the threadless headsets a sign of the crapafication of modern bicycles. So instead of having an adjustment for handlebar height available with a bolt, you now have to buy lots of stems. Integrated headsets are just the next step, and are even more craptastic. https://www.chrisking.com/tech/int_he...explain_1.html

Sheldon
(old kurmudgeon)

sstorkel

If you need to adjust your handlebar height frequently, there are adjustable stems and quills available for either type of headset. For myself, I can't remember adjusting handlebar height on any of my personal bikes more than 2 or 3 times in the last 10-15 years. I do, however, enjoy the rock-solid connection of my threadless steerer/headset/stem on a daily basis...

Kogswell

Most any Surly/Soma/IRO/Kogswell fork can be cut and threaded and installed with a threaded headset. Most (all?) of them come with 9/8" steerers, but 9/8" threaded headsets and 9/8" quill stems are easy to find (they're still being made and they were used on mountain bikes for a couple of seasons before threadlessness took over.)

We make 1" forks for most of our models and we cut and thread them and install them with 1" threaded headsets at least once a week. About 10% of our customers ask for threaded.

steelonly

Rivendell is going to be like all custom fabricators, customers most likely desire a frame they will own made to their precise specs. Rarely, and when it does happen its almost insulting, will a potential customer call/email with concerns of price, from the get go at least.

I wouldnt buy a Soma, the tubing isnt that great, not to mention it is a 180 aesthetic from any classic steel frame. Ebay will give you some good options to start. And there are several shops nationwide who specialize in vintage/classic frames and components. Check out VIA in Philly, www.bikeville.com or www.firstflightbikes.com in NC... insight on what some vintage classics will cost...

70's steel, stuff is bulletproof... and when your on the road with it, heads will turn, and compliments will be given. a soma or surly... we see those everyday.

its a worthwhile investment, the market keeps growing.

maddog17

what size frame you looking for? i got a Concorde i'm trying to sell. PM me if interested.