maverickpixel

hey everyone


i just picked up a bike frame with plans to build it up, my only qualm is i know nothing of bikes. They seemed super easy, i figured i could just wing it and get a decent setup, but after a few minutes of my local bike shop laughing at me, i decided to ask for some help (notice, not asking for help at said bike shop big_smile ) ive picked up on some things reading the intrawebs, but im still a newb when it comes to fitting correct parts.

so this is the frame

https://www.ebay.com/itm/20-Tidalforce-F … 500wt_1338

i want to replace everything on it. The front fork is a boat anchor, the crank set im pretty sure is made out of led and it has ****ty grip shifters. Im trying to go as light as possible, but with in reason, monetarily. The reason for the folding bike is that i have to take a train every day (for a very short ride) but i can turn my 20 min urine stained subway ride into a 10 min ride down the green way on the hudson. I will be going up and down stairs alot, why im trying to keep weight down.


this guy did a similar build on the same frame

https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.ph … gue-hummer

got it down from 32 lbs to 14, im thinking with not toooo much money involved i could go even lower.


i am thinking of using the same mosso front fork as him (80 dollars on ebay), but i was also thinking about putting 700c wheels on, i think all i would need to fit them would be shallow caliper breaks on the rear. i would like to loose the 3 crank flywheels, and just keep the single, but im not sure if that means i have to loose the 8 speed cassette and go all hipster fixie. I have a specilized rock hopper that i never use that has a shimano derailur and cassette... not sure if that could be used.

so basically i just need someone to bounce questions off of, or to help me build this damn bike... Suggesting parts too, i have no idea where to start looking for light weight after market parts. Im obviously not trying to spend a tonne of money, but i also dont mind spending if i really notice a difference .

thanks guys

-Mike

MichaelW

Is this the Montague Paratrooper frameset. The complete bike is an OK frame with low end components.
Check that 26" folders are OK to carry on transit. Some places limit you to 20". Can you just take a normal bike?
Buying lightweight components new is v expensive. Older 1980s/90s cross-country style bikes were light, if you can stand purple anodizing.
26" wheels are fine for commuting, just fit narrow slicks for speed.
a 1x8 transmission is sensible but you may need a chainkeeper.

maverickpixel

yeah its the paratrooper, but with out wheels pedals and cassette. i could use a regular bike, but if i get caught in rush hour traffic ill have to wait for a spot for both me and the bike. the folding should allow a much easier transition. im looking to replace the crank set, but im not sure how to even go about looking for one that fits... any help?-Mike

fietsbob

Expect BB thread is British standard.. , the stem and wheel dropout spacing can be measured.
by you , there .. I have to guess from out here .. 26" wheels?

DieselDan

Most likely you aren't getting 700c wheels on that frame. A lightweight commuter bike is a relative term compared to other commuter bikes, as they should be a bit tougher then a road bike, which makes them heavy.