Originally Posted by
TheBlackPumpkin
Thinking about buying a frame(set even) and building it up as stuff goes on sale.
Curious what the most common compatability issues are. I'm from the tech world and expect a lot of stuff like that with computers etc, curious how much of it there is with bike building and whether im likely to end up ordering a lot of **** that just.. doesn't work.
Frames going to be a lynskey if it matters.
Building up a bike is fun and educational, although not necessarily the most cost-effective way of doing it (you'll be paying retail for the parts, while manufacturers will be paying OEM prices) - still worth doing, IMO - I wouldn't dream of buying a "built" bike". I would spend a little time on sites like this and learn some more about the various "moving parts" and what the options are. If you're buying a frame, the main points of compatibility are:
Disk vs Rim brakes (affects frame and fork)
Tire width capacity (frame and fork)
Setup for mechanical, semi wireless, wireless
Internal cable routing
BB standard (of which there are many)
*Steerer diameter (determines fork compatibility)
*Fork dimensions (affects geometry/handling)
*Headset bearing compatibility
One-piece cockpit (ie stem + bars: may limit reach and width options)
Seat tube width (also, round vs proprietary)
(*less important if the frame comes with a fork)
I would spend a little time doing some reading and learning what all of these options actually mean and how they matter.