Bike Building Questions
 

I did something stupid, I purchased a carbon fiber frame instead of just buying another bike. My original bike I love, but the frame was always too small for me and the new frame is the proper size. So if this works out I will hopefully have an awsome road bike. Now I am looking at switching everything over and am hoping you guys can help me head off any problems I may come accross.

Original bike - Trek FX 7.1, Already upgraded the seat post and bike stem to help out the size problem, added 700 x 25 Bontrager ultra lites, aluminum handle bars.

New frame - Trek 5500. This is an older frame and fork, 1996, where as my current bike is a 2009 model.

1. Will the crank fit? I have never removed a crank before, this will be my first. Eventually I will upgrade the crank. I have already orderd another shimano gear set that I covered in my previous Gearing post.

2. Will my chain be the right size, or will I have to get another, or alter it?

3. Will all the cables work out?

4. What other problems will I run into that I havn't thought of?

Thanks for the help.

Adding a picture, not very good on, but I won't have the frame until later this week:

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c2...ddr2/frame.jpg

Looks like my brakes will not transfer, it has the older center pivot type mounting holes.

In all likelihood, the cranks and Bottom bracket will fit, as long as it's the classic 68mm wide threaded shell. If it doesn't appear to have been done, make sure to have someone face the the BB shell. Chain should transfer, but since the chainstay might be a different length, double check that the length is OK.

Cables may or may not work depending on where the fulcrum is located. I know you probably don't want to retape the bars, but this would be a good time to replace all 4 cables and housings.

All in all, the likeliest issues are the front derailleur clamp diameter unless it's a braze-on, and headset and/or fork steerer. Obviously everything will need adjusting, including both derailleurs, and brake shoe height, since while things are close they won't be identical. Take your time, and do a thorough job. Then go out and enjoy your new wheels.