Scholar Gypsy

Hello folks,


EDIT: more directly, are these two pieces of equipment suitable replacements for a GT ZR 2.0 frame and bars?
Immortal Spirit Frame
Vision Tech Aero System

Can a Shimano BB 5500, 109.5mm spindle be replaced with a standard english threaded 68mm bottom bracket without replacing any my cranks?

Yesterday I decided to start training for a triathlon and as such, require some slight modifications to my current bike (GT ZR 2.0 frame with Ultegra components). First on the block, is replacing my current (now cracked) frame with a Motobecane Immortal Spirit Carbon Fiber replacement. At this point I must point out my ignorance and ask one and all if this is a suitable replacement.

Second, is my intended purchase of a Aero-bar/base system. I am leaning towards the Vision Tech system. Is it easily/possible to install on a 1 1/8" threadless headset frame?

Next, I suspect that a forward-facing seat would make up for my stretched out position. I am fairly long-limbed at six feet in height, so will need to install the aero bar system before proceeding.

Opinions, suggestions, comments?

StanSeven

There are two types of Vision Tech bars - clip on aero and the semi-integrated systems where brake levers are mounted in the end of "bull horn" bars. Clip on's are good for starting out in tri training. The latter makes regular riding more challenging - brakes are further away when quickly needed and less hand positions for climbing.

I suggest going to a LBS and try them and other brands out.

I also suggest going with bars first before a forward leaning seatpost. You need to experience riding with the aero bars b efore deciding what's the best seat position.

Scholar Gypsy

I am looking at the integrated version, though due to my lack of knowledge, I am unsure how/if they can install on the headset/stem of an Immortal Spirit frame.

The Shimano Dura Ace 7700 9 Speed Bar End Shifters have also captivated my interest as a shifting solution.

Scholar Gypsy

Okay - the Motobecane Immortal Spirit frame I am looking at has a standard English Threaded 68mm bottom bracket is that suitable replacement for my current Shimano BB-5500, 109.5mm spindle?

blamp28

Have you considered searching for the specifications for each of your components? The information is widely available. The shiman Techdocs are great for finding that sort of information.
https://lmgtfy.com/?q=Shimano+BB-5500

Lots of good info here too:
https://sheldonbrown.com/articles.html

Scholar Gypsy

I've been through these articles and search engines already. That's why I am here, because I am unable determine if the frame under question can accommodate either my old bottom bracket and crankset, or my current crankset can install ON the Immortal frame.

blamp28

Well, at the top of the Shimano Tech doc brought up by the search I suggested, it states that the BB-5500 comes in a 68mm size. You could measure to be certain. https://techdocs.shimano.com/media/te...9830612168.pdf

It really seams that a frame swap may be beyond your mechanical knowledge or experience level. You may want to consider having a shop do this work for you.

Scholar Gypsy

The frame swap is well outside of my level of technical knowledge. However, I am trying to purchase a frame for them to do the swap. Thats what all this nonsense is, is talking to people who know what the hell is going on so I can get confirmation that the swap will be successful and I'm not out hundreds of dollars.

I also havn't received direct answers to my questions, hence my continued probing.

From what I've gathered, is that a) a the frame under question is a suitable replacement, and b) the integrated aero frame will install without difficult on said Immortal Spirit frame.

blamp28

You are best served by getting into contact with a competent local mechanic. This person will coach you far better than we can remotely. Additionally, they may be aware of frames available locally that could save you money as well.

jimc101

Not sure that the frame you are looking at, the Motobecane Imortal Spirit is a great choice for a Tri frame, Tri frames / bikes are not road bike frames / bikes, as a tri bike will put the rider in a different position to a road bike.

Motobecane do produce some Tri frames / bikes, have you looked at these? they would also eliminate the issues of compaitbility you will get, in trying to move old parts to a new frame.

StanSeven

This thread is getting crazy. Do you realize the aero bars you are looking at cost as much as the frame? Then you'll end up with a tri specific setup that's not good for road riding or perhaps training depending on where you live and the roads you ride? Most people doing tri's for the first time take their roade bike, add clip on bars, and just do it. If they like it, they invest more. The way you are proceeding, you'll haver lots of money in a bike that's not good at anything.

IMO, your best bet is set up your road bike for clip on aero bars. Then if you like tri's, buy a used tri bike that fits you. You'll have two bikes - one for the road and a tri specific one for about the same money.

Scholar Gypsy

Stan, I am getting both the replacement frame and aero bars at an incredible discount. The frame needs to be replaced anyway, and a tri-specific frame (in my budget) won't accommodate my big 700cc tires. The aero-bars, are the only real addition. I have full plans to begin racing triathlons competitively (once a bug bites me, I can't shake it off), and have a tri-specific bike planned as a winter project, at which point, I can just grab any worthwhile component off my current road/hybrid.

StanSeven

As far as the aero bar goes, yes they fit on your standard 1 1/8" headset. What's confusing you is the picture in your link that has the stem as part of the configuration. Normally that's not part of what you purchase. You can use your existing stem. Where you have a problem is getting the right length and that's hard to do until you see how you fit on the bike.

The ideal setup involves you with a flat position including a rounded back. That involves a lot of trial and errror, including making saddle adjustments and experimenting with stem lengths.

So buy the aero bars and the install isn't that difficult. Take the face plate off your current stem, switch the new bars, tighten the stem plate, and add bar end shifters and new brake levers.

bradtx

S G, My suggestion is to replace your broken frame and transfer all that you can to the new frame. Some things may come up during the transfer of parts that may require a replacement, best determined during the transfer. A pair of Syntace C2 clip ons can get you aquainted with using aerobars and working out proper fitment.

Since you've yet to compete in a tri, the bike you want is fine. Save the major cash outlay for when you've competed a couple of times and your talent and desire require higher level equipment. Good placement in a tri is rarely, if ever determined by a strong swimmer or cyclist, but in the run. Have fun.

Brad