Buy or Build?
 

I am totally new to the world of fixies. I am thinking about building or buying a fixed-gear bike for fun.
Is it cheaper to build or buy?

For example, here is a link to a shop and bikes, what do you think?

http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/bid/3400618604.html

Thanks for all responses.

buy complete then upgrade as you go is usually the way to go.

If you just want to try out a fixed gear you could just get a crappy beater road frame, buy a new fixed wheel, and BAM: you've got a fixed gear.

Cheaper to buy complete.

Much more fun and personalized to build.

Fixie sale today!

i agree

Yeah, buy a complete that you think is what you need (i.e. don't buy a complete when you're already thinking of a million things you'll want to change on it). Make yourself ride it for at least a month or so before changing anything big. That gives you time to get used to the bike and figure out what your preferences are.

Thanks for all responses so far.

Another question is the question of the frame. I would definitely prefer an aluminum or carbon frame to a Cro-Moly or High Tensile Steel frame. It would be nice to have a light frame, hence the preference for an Al or C frame.

What do you think re frame material?

And what says you regarding the price and components on that $245 bike posted on that website linked?

It depends on your budget. Sometimes at the lower pricepoints, a steel frame can be lighter and higher quality than a cheap aluminum frame.

What do you want to spend if you're planning to get a complete?

+1

For example, a Kilo TT frame is lighter(and better quality overall) than a Visp and won't be a harsh of a ride on the street.

If I can get away with spending at most $500 for a decent bike with good wheels, then that's cool.

If that's the case, look toward good steel options.

The Kilo TT Pro is right in your price range and everyone here love them. It's a great starting point.

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/...ott_pro_xi.htm

The frame and the wheels on the kilo are amazing at that price point.

1) It's cheaper to buy than build.

2) It's faster to buy than build.

3) Building usually takes MUCH more time and money than people expect. Winter will be here soon. If you build, you may not have it ready before it gets really cold...or you can spend the winter building as you take your time.

4) Building a bike isn't rocket science. But, it does require some info on the subject.

5) If you build you might also have to buy tools or pay for labor. Those are other expenses.

6) You cannot try-before-you-buy if you build.


The people who really benefit from building from scratch (or near scratch) are those that know what they want and how to get it. Otherwise, it's trial by fire. You'll learn, but it won't be a fast and cheap lesson.

Okay. The thing is he does not appear to have my size. Let me ask you this: I ride a 55cm TT in road frames. I am already thinking bull bars, since my intention regarding the fixie is rides of 30miles or less, on mostly flat trails. Intention is for the fixie to be a fun change of pace bike that could also be used for improving my pedal stroke. I am thinking the size with the 54.8cm TT coupled to a 100/110mm stem should be okay. Or do fixies "fit" a little bit differently than regular road frames?

You could always try with different stems (cheap ones). But I'd take a serious look at the fit calculator on competitive cyclist. It takes some time, but it's worth it.

Payment accept: Visa/Master credt/debit card and CASH(out the door)

Out the door? As opposed to what?

Hey, does anyone know what is going on with bikesdirect.com re their fixie bikes?

Decided to buy the Kilo TT Pro in size 55cm, but it's out of stock on their website, plus no way to communicate with them re when they are gonna have that size in stock.

Any help?

Shoot them an email, they're great at responding.

http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_md...dwi9o1_400.gif

http://www.bikesdirect.com/contact.htm

Thanks. I just shot them an e-mail.

Hey, the bikes are now in stock. Any one has a shark gray chrome? Is that color nice? Also, with the new specs, good value at$450? And those of you who have them, how is the stiffness at the BB? Especially for clydes?

Thanks.

Check out the Kilo TT pictures thread. I personally think the shark grey is the best color, although I own a white one.

The sugino RD-2's are plenty stiff. I was about 190 when I was using them on the track. They really aren't bad, and one of the better cranksets at that price point.

Thanks. What about the stiffness of the frame around the BB?

As a unit, it was plenty stiff.

That was actually one of my complaints about the Sugino RD-2, was the flex, but then I was just coming off of an external crank.