Originally Posted by
Tej24
Carleton, what you describe is my nightmare scenario, I entered into this with the idea that since I only needed to figure out the wheel sets, the conversion, and the crank set, I might be able to manage it within my budget. But a whole lot of expenses and no result would be a real problem. Thats why I am here though, I am trying to post pics of what I have but am having trouble with the upload, but if you guys still advise against it once you can take a look at what I am working with, I will have no choice but to bow to your experience and wait. I cannot afford the alternative.
If that's why you are here, then LISTEN TO MY ADVICE. Building a bike from the frame up is time consuming and expensive...and that's when you know what you are doing. It's worse when you don't.
The best option is to buy a quality used bike at a fair price (or lower). Your next best option is to buy a quality new bike that you plan to keep for a few years.
Remember, even if you are able to cobble together this bike after several weeks and it rolls down the street and functions like a normal bike, that doesn't mean you'll like it.
If the difference between "a basic bike that works" and "a bike that you love" is $200 or $300 more than you have now, it may be worth it to save up a few more bucks.
Bikes aren't cheap. So choose carefully. Otherwise, you'll spend weeks buying parts and assembling this bike, then buy another one next year.