nightfly

Looking to build up a new bike for the street. Right now have a Redline 925 that I've had for a few years but would like something sexier, lighter and more responsive. The Redline is sort of the mini van of fixed gears. Itching to build something myself which I've done before with a few conversions rather than get a stock complete.

Suggestions for good, light, responsive frame? Could be steel or aluminum. Want something more unique than a Kilo TT or similar. Ok with spending $500-800 on a frame. Something nice but short of custom. Probably budget around the same for parts.

Scrodzilla

All-City Big Block 5th Anniversary or Thunderdome framesets are both good candidates IMO.

nightfly

Both good suggestions. Easy to build a sub 20 pound complete from the Big Block without stressing too much about parts?

Scrodzilla

Most likely, depending on frame size.

TheRealFaux

I think you should go for something custom. Though within your budget you probably won't be able to get something brand new, you should easily be able to find a custom frame in very nice or close to new condition secondhand. It'll be more unique than any off the shelf All-city, Soma or EAI.

If it has to be off the shelf and brand new, I think you should go for the Soma Rush. The build quality and tubeset is on par with the All-city and EAI offerings, but at a lower price point.

prooftheory

Buy scrod's dodici. If it fits.

Scrodzilla

Or this.

nightfly

Anyone ridden the Big Block? Liking the looks of both this years lavendar and next years chrome and silver. Both seem to be available. Going to see if I can find one locally to check out.

Scrodzilla

I've ridden the stock complete bike and it's very nice for the money.

DanBell

I rode the stock Big Block for a year and a half. Very nice setup. I found the handlebars to be a bit flexy, and I didn't like how thin the grips were, so I swapped those out. Other than that, it's a very solid package. Mine's for sale now, but I'm guessing you don't live near me...

Scrodzilla

I agree. The stock track drops are way too deep and flex quite a bit - but the OP is talking about building up a frameset so I wasn't really focusing on the parts. Actually, the bars are really my only complaint on the stock complete.

One customer of mine swapped the bars out for risers and it was 100% awesome to ride.

mrbenji

I've had my Big Block for about a month and a half. Bought it used, put most of my own parts on it, and so far I love it.

nightfly

Thanks for the feedback. Neighbor of mine has a Nature Boy and told me there's a local dealer that stocks the full All City line so I'm going to go check them out. He said his Nature Boy ran a little large so I'd like to check out the sizing in person. He was thinking he was going to buy a 55 but ended up on a 52. Big Block is a different animal so wanted to see for myself.