How much of my road bike could I cannibalize for a new CX bike?
 

I've been debating selling my Trek 120 OLCV bike and getting a Cyclocross bike. I'm not into racing, but I admittedly enjoy having a nice bike for long rides. I basically just want something a little sturdier than my full carbon ride.

I currently have Ultegra components (although they're from like 2002-2003), and it seems like I could probably rip those off for a new CX bike, since I see a lot of builds using the Tiagra or 105 parts.

What parts couldn't I get away with using on a CX build? (Obviously not the frame, wheelset, etc...)

The answer is highly dependent on what CX frame you buy, but there is virtually nothing save the frame that can't be used for CX. Even your wheelset could be used, though depending on what it is, you may wish to invest in something else more durable.

As for sticking points in making the transition, make sure the clamp (seat and front der.) are the same, that it takes the same size seatpost, and you may have to swap the stem for fit. Some people prefer wider bars offroad.

EDIT: Of course, I forgot about the brakes. You'll need new cantis or mini-v's, I recommend the Tektro CR720, you can do your entire bike for about $40.

Great, thanks for the tips. I'm currently eyeing a Salsa Chili Con Crosso frame. I'd definitely need a new fork as well, right?

Yeah, assuming your current fork doesn't have cantilever bosses.

Nope, sure doesn't. Anyone want to buy a Trek 120 OCLV frame / fork? ;)

You might be better off selling your bike complete and buying a complete 'cross bike. You'll get a better deal than you would if you tried to piece something together.

Then again, everything should transfer over except frame, fork and brakes. I'd also recommend replacing any other carbon bits with aluminum.

That actually doesn't seem to be the case. The thing is that right now I have full Ultegra components and such. If I sell the entire bike (for what, like $1200 at most?) I'll be able to afford a decent CX bike, but it'll be using 105s or something, and just generally not quite as nice.

Everything but the tires, brakes and chainring can be used.

When you have all the parts already buying a frame is an economical way to go.

I don't fully understand why you want a cross bike. Is it because you want larger clearance for tires?

All Salsa (road/cross) frames I have ever seen or purchased come with a new fork. It's built into the price.

I used my 39t chainring to build my 1x9 setup.

You can buy Con Crossos as a frame only

One other option would be to get a set of Tektro long reach brakes if the bike is setup for standard brake calipers. I just swapped over a complete Campagnolo component set (save the brakes) from and old steel Greg Lemond road bike over to a Ritchey Cross (steel breakaway). I am using a set of tektro cantis (your recommendation) for the brakes. The wheel set is a set of Daytona hubs (Centaur), DT Swiss 14/15 spokes using (4x lacing), and 36H Mavic Open Pro Rims. It is working very nicely. I wouldn't use any of the botique wheel sets for cross riding but, one can buy a set of 105s from Performance with traditional lacing rather cheaply.

The OCLV frame is going to be more comfortable on long rides then the Salsa. Why do you feel you need something sturdier?

In any case, you can also use boutique wheels if you would like. It won't make much of a difference if all you're using the bike for is road riding and some light trail stuff.