Let me explain...

Hopefully, I'll be buying an awesome carbon MTB frame at a a low price. I can't spend too much at the same time, so I was thinking, initially, to use the components of my old Kmart Mongoose MTB with this frame.

Is that possible? It would just be while I gradually purchase higher-quality components. I'm making a big sacrifice buying the frame so I can't initially spend on a frame + all the components.

Thanks.

You might be better off in the MTB forum?

^^^

Having said that... Come on, don't put Kmart level components on that thing.. Buy some used low level stuff off ebay for $200...

Buy the frame... And wait until you can afford components. Then you will have two bikes.

Yes...Kmart components are always best used in a carbon frame...but never on because of lack of OCP points.

You apparently aren't a coupon cutter. Kmart components + carbon frame is the best possible fusion. In fact, those in the know don't even ride with a conventional seat bag...they tie a Kmart plastic bag to the back of the seat.

First, relax.

Next, realise that this is going to take longer, and cost more, than you think.

Start making a list of things you can't swap over, and start getting them.

(click for post with more pics)

Not all of the components are transferrable. The front derailer probably won't fit, the rear derailer probably will have a different hanger setup. The fork on the Mongoose may be a threaded fork and won't work on the carbon frame. Don't force any component to fit. Also, careful with the crank and BB. Ask if the BB and cups and cones will work in the new frame (Your current bike probably has the old cup and cone, square taper BB). Shifters will probably work and the wheels will work (if they're disc ready), but if your rear wheel is a non-quick release I would never put that on a carbon frame. It can be done, but I wouldn't. One thing to consider, the brakes on the new frame are probably disc only and your Mongoose probably has V or cantilever brakes. If you have canti brakes, you can't use the brake levers.
After writing all this, you need to post this on the MTB forum WITH A PIC OF THE MONGOOSE. It's very possible, nothing will be transferrable.

That's the best answer your going to get, you could even take two high end bikes from different manufactures and only find a couple of parts that are interchangeable, handlebar grips (internal diameter) & pedal axle sizes are the only things I can think of which are standard for all MTB's.

yes, fit may be an issue, but otherwise, if the parts can transfer over, I see no reason not to ride them until you decide to upgrade.

Another vote for - The parts may not fit the new frame. Maybe some will, maybe not.

And you apparently don't go to kmart much. EVERYONE knows the pro way to "portage" plastic Kmart bags is on the bar end hooks of your mountain bike, with a slammed seat, raised stem and rusty chain.

Why is this even posted on the ROAD forum, it should be moved to the MTB forum!

It's been moved.

Ok, in the beginning of the thread, I was like "what's with those replying being a**hole* about it?" Now at the end I see that it started out in the roadie forum. Makes sense. Many of them are privilaged little upper-middle class white kids(even an adult who's an a**hole* to someone for having a budget is still a child as far as maturity is concerned) with too big of wallets who wear their spandex too tight. Don't take it personally.

Anywho, as others have said, many/most of the parts likely won't transfer. Why the need for the carbon frame, though? I'd say on a tight budget, a sturdy aluminum frame might suit your needs better. I don't want to get into a carbon debate, but I will just point out that manufacturers recommend you replace a carbon frame after crashing it, and the glorious internets if Full of stories of people cracking carbon frames in minor crashes. A totally decent newer and sturdy aluminum frame can be found for cheap and would likely save you some money for other components and get you riding a nicer, more trail worthy bike a lot quicker. If your bike does in fact have v-brakes, some aluminum frames will also have that option so you can continue to use your brakes until you can afford disk brakes(If you choose to go that route. It's not like you need to). Either way, be prepared to run a single chain-ring up front until you can buy a new front derailer. There's a good chance yours isn't going to fit your new frame, whatever you end up getting. Many people do like riding 1x9, etc, so it's nothing to worry much about.

What frame are you considering? No-name off of eBay?

+1 for the aluminum frame. I was thinking about this thread and totally agree. A LBS brand aluminum frame would be a much better choice for the OP. Consider that if you save enough money, maybe you can afford a complete used bike.

Hi, all. New to the forums. I'm also inclined to say this is going to me an effort that might be all for not. First, frames are the foundation for your rig, but a decent frame is meaningless with sub-par components to match. When i buy these days, I make sure the geometry of the frame meets my riding needs and then i go for the highest end components I can afford. I'd rather upgrade all the components on a K-Mart Mongoose frame, than put those components (should any of them even be transferable) onto a super light, carbon frame.


Just my .02. Happy trails!

Even the name makers put out a smoking hot frame with different components. Santa Cruz Tallboy and Scott Spark or Scale has prices ranging from @$1000 to $10K. The frame is the only stable item.

But I doubt that a big box bike has components that will transfer. The suspension items may even damage a CF frame. Risky business.