Originally Posted by
my58vw
The issue with the "buy the bike with the components" is that most bikes do not come with everything you want (or need). For example, I am building a trek 7.3fx for trails and commuting, and I need 25in (64cm). Trek does not make a higher fx in 25inch, and the components on the 7.3fx are mostly crap. I have no choice but to buy the bike whole, strip off most of the components, build the now empty frame with what I want (like 180mm cranks, etc), and sell the rest.
You can not buy a higher fx with xt parts, they all have road components... plus the stems, posts, bars, etc are never right from the factory...
All three of my bikes are basically the original frame with all new parts... yes it costs more, but I have exactly what I need.
Mate of mine is 6'6" tall and weighs 250lbs. Standard bikes don't work for him but he recently got a Giant Terrago that fitted him. Wheels were the first to change- then a change of fork as it would not take his weight. But a fork for 250lbs being ridden aggressively is not cheap. And at that weight and with Disc brakes- he now had to have a fork with a bolt through axle- so a front wheel rebuild for the Hub.
So far- His £500 bike has cost him another £600. But it now works and will last him a good few years and will not break as his last one did after 9 years. Just aswell as to build up another bike is too painfull in cost for him to do every year.
And I am now road- but Buy frame and forks and build up to my spec for my use with the components I trust and can afford.