Has anyone used one of IRO's Fixed Gear Build Kits?
I'm debating between converting a bike or just buying a Mark V from IRO outright. With the upgraded rims and a front brake the Mark V will be 710.00, which makes me want to cry. If I had more money I wouldn't blink an eye, and I've heard it's a really great bike.

Anyhow, the build kits. So I would buy a frame, and I would probably get the version 3 build kit (249.99) and the IRO Velocity deep V wheel set (249.99). But what sucks is that that's already what a pista or standard mark v would cost. And plus this would be the first bike I convert, and I'm new to all things bikes. (I mean come on, I've been riding a unicyle for the last 3 years).

So deliberate, I'd like to hear if anyone has used these, and if they're worth it.

Version 1. $125.00
Here is a list of what is included.
Crank......................IRO 130bcd with alloy 46 tooth ring
Bottom Bracket.....IRO 68X110
Chain......................KMC Silver Track/Single Speed
Cog........................Soma
Lock Ring...............Steel

Version 2. $189.00
Here is a list of what is included.
Crank......................IRO 130bcd with aloy 46 tooth ring
Bottom Bracket.....IRO 68X110
Chain......................KMC Silver Track/Single Speed
Cog........................Soma
Lock Ring...............Steel
Headset.................FSA Orbit Threadless
Stem.......................100 or 110 mm
Handle Bars..........42 or 44 mm
Seat Post...............Alloy 27.2

Version 3. $249.00
Here is a list of what is included.
Crank......................IRO 130bcd with alloy 46 tooth ring
Bottom Bracket.....IRO 68X110
Chain......................KMC Silver Track/Single Speed
Cog........................Soma
Lock Ring...............Steel
Headset.................FSA Orbit Threadless
Stem.......................100 or 110 mm
Handle Bars..........42 or 44 mm
Seat Post...............Alloy 27.2
Hubs..............IRO flip/flop

Why would you need the build kit that includes hubs if you're going to be purchasing wheels anyways? If you convert a bike you would only need the first option because A threadless headset and stem aren't going to help, neither is a seatpost.

Well, I was thinking more along the lines of working from a frame up. So yes, I suppose the hubs wouldn't be neccessary if were buying a wheelset already. But it still seems like building it myself will be a pain and cost more than I want to pay.

Besides the frame, this bike will end up being similar to the Mark V as far as hardware, I would assume. So maybe it's not that bad after all.

why do you need the wheel upgrade i bought a mark v pro it came with the velocity aerohead rims and iro hubs. i like the wheels there strong, i jump curbs ride down stairs hit pot holes there still straight. i know there not deep v's. but i mean do you really need them? or is just what you want.

Do you have a frame already picked out? Is this going to be a conversion?

On my Univega conversion I have the IRO hubs (spaced to 126mm) laced to MA3s with an EAI cog (the Soma was noisy and had a crap finish), IRO BB and IRO crankset. With this combo, I've had zero problems. Everything seems to be pretty good quality for the money and my chainline is dead-on.

So, to answer your question: Yes, I think they're worth it.

yeah, velocity deep-v's a pretty and strong, but certainly not neccessary.

iro basic wheelsets are damn fine wheels

isn't iro closed right now?

According to the Iro site...

We will be closed until October 17th. Starting October 10th. if you have an open order you will be contacted so you can choose to have a refund issued or wait for your order.

I'm thinking of getting the Mark V frameset or perhaps even the complete build...hopefully before the end of the year.

I was sorta in the same position when I bought my fixie (khs flite 100) because I was going to do a conversion as well. I ended up just buying a bike outright since I couldn't get a better deal (50% off) and I the frame I found was a pile. Granted a conversion is a labor of love, I was in school and working so I didn't have much time to put towards a conversion. I guess it's a question of time too since you could probably ride a complete faster than if you were to do a conversion. Maybe save the frame for a second fixed conversion project?

Everything I have read on here about IRO is all positive. The next fixed I will be buying will most likely be coming from IRO because the price is right and Tony only gets compliments.

i thought they only made the mark v pro now
you think we'll see the angus anytime soon?

I am ordering a wheelset on the 17th, just to show the love.

ya im thinking i need a new set wheels for my winter ride im thinking i need order from tony again.

the pro is discontinued and replaced with the angus, which we're all still waiting to see.

No need for the upgraded wheels, the stock set is what I ride on and they are great wheels.

Haha, I did the same exact thing, and my next new bike will be an IRO, no question.

I bought an Iro as my first fixie, and it is the best choice I could have made. The build kits are specc'ed out pretty well, and the frame welding and finish is just gorgeous.



This pic was right after I got it home. made a few changes...

i dont particularily like them that much... the downtube and rear end dont do it for me....im much more of a lugged sorta fellow myself