Source for frames
 

Hi gang, long time listener, first time caller.

I'm wanting to learn more about how bikes work and how to work on them. In addition to getting some books and stuff I'm looking to do a simple build so I want to convert my Trek 700 to a fixie. But as I learn more about fixies I'm thinking I'd like to not convert (and go with the chain tensioner) but start with a proper frame with the correct drop outs. So where is a good source for frames only? Or should I just pick up a bargain Windsor or the like and upgrade comps?

Well, that depends on your budget I'd say. ;)

Your trek has vertical drop outs, so good move on not converting it. If you want to build a bike from the frame up it is going to be more expensive, but it is a great way to learn how to work on bikes. Thats what I did and I learned a bunch. In the end it cost me about $150 more than buying something from bikesdirect, but it was worth it to me.

If you are still in the basic learning phase go here: http://www.sheldonbrown.com/

Here are a couple sites that helped me when I was learning how to work on specific areas:
http://www.fixedgeargallery.com/colu...age/indexb.htm
http://www.parktool.com/repair/bikemap.asp

If you want to look at just frames: http://bikeisland.com/cgi-bin/BKTK_S...Framesets-Road

Welcome to your new addiction.

Read Sheldon Brown : http://sheldonbrown.com/fixed/index.html

http://sheldonbrown.com/singlespeed.html

http://sheldonbrown.com/harris/#articles

I think your best bet is to buy an old road frame for cheap and work on that. Replace the cables and housings, regrease your bearings. Take it all apart, put it all back together. Convert it to fixed, convert it back to geared.

This is based solely on your desire to learn more about how to work on bikes, rather than you needing a new bike. If you want to ride a new bike now, just get a new bike.

they said everything that needs to be said.

just buy a cheap wheelset and convert your trek. as long as you don't file things off, then you will be able to convert it back again.

If your "Trek 700" is a lugged steel frame from the late-70s to mid-80s it should be ideal for conversion to either single-speed or fixed gear. These were made from high-end Reynolds 531 steel tubing and had long, horizontal slot dropouts (Campy 1010 or Shimano SF) that allow good adjustment range for chain tensioning. Trek later recycled the "700" model designation for an entry-level "hybrid" bike with vertical dropouts; this would be more difficult to convert.

Which do you have?

Reading the thread title- ..............


Thrift Shop

sheldon brown +1

So much good feed back here. Thanks a lot. The Trek 700 is a newer one with vertical drop outs so you guy confirmed it for me that I'm not converting that one. My other thought is to take the Trek and wrench on it and make a really light trail bike out of it for adventure racing.

I'll probably take the road most traveled and buy a beater and slowly up grade the components on it. Thanks again for the great advice.

Oh and I forgot to give props to Sheldon Brown. I really wasn't all that enthused a fixie until I found his site and began reading there.