Frame recommendations for SS MTB
 

I'm considering converting a Brodie Electro to SS but I'm wondering if I should try for something other than a Freeride frame to save some weight. No big drops in my riding, mostly XC with lots of technical stuff (no downhill per se). I bought the Electro because it was all I could afford with shocks that didn't look like it would fall apart, but I've been out of the mtb loop for long enough to really not have any idea of what the options are in terms of frames and frame weight. Or if it makes much difference given that the bulk of the weight is likely shocks anyway...

http://www.khsbicycles.com/frame-teamst-w.jpg

+ eno hub

http://www.bontrager.com/keith/rants.asp?id=8

I've referenced it before but damned if pal Keith ain't making a whole mess of sense here. Don't think about it too hard. The more retro you can go the better... unless there's a very specific thing you're looking for in your ss mtb.

Surly 1x1 - the right bike for the right price.

Yeah, don't you think the rear flex action would flip the chain (though KHS do make a softail SS...)?

I have an old Bianchi Grizzly that would be ideal except it has a 1" headtube. Front suspension is getting to be a must, as I'm starting to feel my age.

Nothing wrong with a 1" head tube. There are 1" sus forks out there, though admittedly they'll be hard to come by. On the other hand, a suspension seatpost can soak up a lot of the pain or you can track down an old 1" rigid with tons of rake and it will be a pretty cushy ride.

I suspect it'll be hard to find a frame with a 1 1/8" head tube and horizontal dropouts as the one was pretty much introduced as the other was leaving the scene. If you want that you'll probably end up having to either put new forkends on a vert. dropout frame or buying a new SS-specific frame.

does not :)

Look for and older Specialized frame with semi-horizonal drop-outs. I would find a used steel frame on Ebay. I have an old Specilized frame with the drop-outs you need. It is steel and could use a paint job but I would let it go cheap. It has a 1" headset also.

This was pretty much the rationale for buying a new bike, a purchase I sort of regret right now. I had next to no luck finding a used 1" suspension fork and got blank looks at most of the LBS's.

I'll see if I can trade this one in at the LBS's that do used.

You can order from marzocchi. They have 2 1in forks you can special order :)