Originally Posted by
BigBlueToe
I purposely didn't keep track of the amount I spent building up my LHT frame, but I know it was considerably more than a complete would have cost. I didn't cut corners on components; I wanted a bike that would be reliable, solid, and smooth-running.
Cost is the downside of buildling yourself.
The reasons I do it (I'm presently building up my 5th frame) are:
- I find it easier to spend a small amount each month, rather than come up with the cost of a complete bike all at once. (This is only possible if you're not in a huge hurry to ride the bike. That's hard for me, but I do have other bikes to ride during the process.)
- I have control over all the components. I get exactly what I want without having to switch out the components that come on the complete.
- I get more "intimate" with my bike (careful!) I know how every part goes on. This gives me more confidence that I can fix things if they malfunction while I'm out on tour.
- I learned a lot when I did the first build. With every subsequent build I learn a little more, especially when I use components I haven't used before.
- I have an excuse to buy tools.
- It's fun!
Almost all true reasons for building a frame. Notice low cost isn't one of them. I doubt that Uosdwis R Dewoh's list includes taxes, shipping and the cost of spending time chasing down parts on Fleabay, prowling bike shop back rooms, Craigslist or nefarious late night scavenging
I've gone this route with numerous bikes. It's not about cost, it's about all those things that BigBlueToe lists.