i've been reading about sparton frames around here and also on their website and at this point i have pretty mixed feelings about the quality of their track frame. however, i do like the look and price of their frames. rather than being convinced to give them a second look, i'm hoping you might know some good alternatives.

who else makes steel lugged track frames that are well under $300?

thanks

pretty much nobody. this and this are pretty much your only options at that price range.

If budget it an issue get a decent welded steel frame rather than a sub-par lugged frame.

good advice

thanks.

in what ways can a frame be sub-par? (i know there is an answer but can you explain?) does it have to do with lugs or the strength of the tubing?

i haven't seen too many lugged frames in that range. here's a welded alternative.

https://www.bikeforums.net/singlespeed-fixed-gear/421565-scattante-ssr-fixed-build.html

Tube quality, lug quality, brazing quality (or weld, if not lugged), finish quality... They all contribute to the overall integrity, longevity and appearance of a frame. You pretty much just get what you pay for. Sometimes it's just hype *cough*fuji obey*cough*, but most of the time a little extra buck nets you a lot of extra bang (law of diminishing returns still in effect).

Also this is pretty funny, but that's a fork-destroying trick if there ever was one: https://youtube.com/watch?v=2c5sVV8PvBo&feature=related

fuji obey had hype? hahahaaaaaaaaaa

You know what I mean. The parts are decent but they in no way warrant the price tag.

every time i see this video i cringe

The look on his face right before he tosses the bike aside... hahahahaha...

btw... I emailed sparton about these frames. They are straight gauge no name tubes. He said they can make it with other tubing for an extra $400