Considering a Single Speed Build

I've built bikes up from a frame, built many wheelsets, etc. I'm looking for suggestions for specific components, or general configuration, that will help me achieve the build I'm looking for. As most, I'm hoping not to break the bank, but will pay extra for better quality, lighter components.

What I'm looking for is a stiff frame with aggressive geometry and a comfortable fit. My frame size is around 58cm, plus or minus. FWIW, I'm used to riding in a relatively low position. With that said, I want to be comfortable enough for longer rides (2+ hrs.) I don't want to be as low as a track racer.

I'd like to get the bike down to around 15 lbs. A friend built a SS from a very light road/multi-gear frame and got his down to 13.5 lbs. I'm taking his word for it, but I did lift the bike myself.. very light. I'd prefer a track frame.

So, here are some options/condiderations:

Frame - Most likely alloy, probably with CF fork. I'm not against a press-fit BB, if only to save weight, but don't even know if a track frame is readily available configured as such. Is this do-able, relative to my final weight goal, for ~$500.00?

Wheels - I will build my own, probably from a kit like like this: DIY FG-SS Wheel Kit. I already have wheels with these rims and I love them. I might request that the vendor allow an upgrade to CX Ray spokes.

Other Components: Taking suggestions

I think the 15 lb. goal is doable or at least approachable. I'd appreciate it if anyone would care to jump in with ideas. Thanks!

It is nothing like you are describing and I did not ride it long this way - but here is my fixed steelie when I was fooling around with a weight-weenie build (and not a single crabon bit )...





You should search for member Aka_ricerocket and his bikes - IIRC he might have the lightest one-gear bike around here - built from one of those belt-drive crabon Trek Districts...

If you go over to the retrogression website you will see a lot of different frames that you could start investigating. Additionally, all the other parts you would likely want are there. This might help as a first step. As for a CF fork, I really liked my Enve fork. You are going to get a ton of strong opinions, good luck. 15 pounds is a reasonable goal.

My TK2 weighs in at:



This has mostly normal parts, Gatorskins, some carbon stuff on it, but I never went weight weenie on it. I would imagine that you could reach your goal. What is your final budget for the bike?

I had already checked out the frames on that website. The Aventon frames look pretty cool. I want a contemporary look, but still want to use a standard, round seatpost.

I think under $1000 is doable, considering that I'll be building the wheels.

Have you considered Dolan? The Pre Cursa is a great inexpensive track frame, and the also make the FXE which has water bottle and fender mounts, and can accept a rear brake, so it's probably better suited to road use.

Those Aventon frames are indeed pretty cool: lightweight and affordable. I don't especially care for the looks of them, but that's a personal thing. I've never ridden one, but my friend has one and loves it.

I think you can meet your goal of $1000 for the complete bike if you shop around for sale/clearance items or buy used. Check Velomine; they have the best prices going on a lot of items.

I'm not aware of an affordable track frame with a press-fit BB. Most still have English threads. Square taper spindles remain very popular for FG bikes, but there are some good external cup/hollow spindle offerings as well. (Sugino 75 comes in that configuration now--outstanding quality but very expensive... or SRAM Omnium--also very good, and much cheaper)

If I had been weight-weenie'ing when buying my Wabi, I would have chosen the Lightning frameset. If you're planning on 2+ hour rides, the Lightning's Columbus Spirit+Carbon fork combo would be a good option. Geometry plays an important role too, so it's worth considering that when frame shopping.

Even still, my 58cm Wabi Special comes in at 19lbs without trying too hard (swapping out the Brooks saddle would help).

Have you considered China carbon? Many have built very light road bikes using such frames and most are under $500. Ask about good brands in the road bike forum and you are likely to get some feedback.


-Tim-

My Cinelli Work is proudly 25 pounds full steel frame and fork with a front rack, dynamo set up, front and rear canti brakes and 32 spoke wheels but it rides like a dream. Plus I can still shoulder it pretty easily without too much fatigue.

My Langster with front and rear brakes is about 17 pounds or so with stock wheels and a few other stock parts and gatorhardshells. But it is a rougher ride and really doesn't have much space for plump tires to help the ride a little. Weight weenie stuff is fun but comfort and versatility can be pretty awesome too just FYI.

I wouldn't rule it out, but none of those frames strike my fancy. I don't plan on riding fixed, so I will need brake mounts/drillings.


I'm aware of the trade-offs. I already have a 23+lb. steel single-speed that will accept larger tires, etc. I'm looking for something different this time around.

Fair enough. I would then go for a Pinarello Bolide ; )