I have a Pake frame. I know, I know...a Pake frame. My dad got it for a decent price.

I'm planning on buying the IRO Build kit
https://www.irocycle.com/index.asp?Pa...ROD&ProdID=115
how do i figure out what stem length i need? i probably have to figure that out myself huh?

and

Mavic CXP 22 Black Rims 32H With Formula Sealed Bearing Fix/Free Hubset and DT 2.0 Spokes
is there a reason why the black is more expensive than the silver rims? just for looks?
should i stick with the formula hubs?
if i do a fix/free can i get the same ratio on both sides?
i live in the portland/vancouver area so i'm guessing my gear ratio is going to be 46/17 or 46/16.

i probably forgot to say or ask something.

okay, go ahead and laugh.

No laughing here, though when I posted a similar thread it had no posts for two days, and then a couple guys showed up to tell me I shouldn't bother. Needless to say I'm doing it anyway, but who knows maybe you'll have better luck

its tough to say what length is going to be better for you until you ride. its about whatever is comfortable for you. i started riding a random bike i bought complete and started replacing parts that i figured out were making me uncomfortable or sore. maybe start out with the shorter stem so you arent stretched out as far...those lengths arent like a seat post or something that wont fit on certain frames if that makes sense. the black are more expensive because they are black, no real reason. my girlfriend has that wheelset. its a good starter. and you can put any size freewheel or track cog on you want. those formula hubs are great. you dont want to start out with crazy expensive things until you figure out exactly what you like.

Have you checked the stickies yet???

yes, i looked at the stickies.
they weren't very helpful to me now but might be helpful to me in future reference.
I'm just asking about the parts I'm thinking about buying
and most of the stickies don't really talk about the IRO cranks
they all mention spendy parts.

Stem length is used to get the bike fit dialed in. I don't know if you can tell other than by trial and error unless you have a professional bike fit done. I'd get an average size stem and replace it as needed.


I'm guessing this is a supply and demand thing -- most prices are. Obviously there's no technical difference. There might be a difference in how much it costs to produce, but if people weren't willing to pay more they'd be priced the same anyway.


This is outside my expertise. The Formula hubs are everywhere. You can get better hubs, but I haven't heard anything bad about these. The fact that Bike Wheel Warehouse uses them gives me confidence. I bought a set of wheels from them earlier in the year for my 'cross bike and they've been great.


Yes.


It really depends on your fitness level. I'm a 39-year old guy who's only been cycling for a couple of year. I just built up a bike with 46/18 for my ride from Beaverton to Hillsboro, and I think the gearing might be a bit low. If you're young and strong 46/16 is probably good unless you're going to be riding over the West Hills.