Frame build query..

[bikeandbivvy]

So as per my other posts I am selling my scott bike as the frame is too small and I want a bike thats suitable for bikepacking. Given the spec on the scott being quite reasonable (Rock Shox 30 with lockout, shimano hydraulic disk brakes etc I wonder if id be better just looking for a new/second hand frame and transferring all the bits over, however... my technical bike maintenance skills are very limited.

Is it possible or will I need to replace cables, bottom brackets and lots more and am i better just selling the full bike and getting another the right size second hand?

[bikeandbivvy]

I was thinking of getting the Sonder Frontier Frame & Fork on the cycle to work scheme https://www.alpkit.com/sonder/bikes/son ... e-and-fork as a replacement? I could get frame only but seems silly not to get the rigid fork too as a spare!

[voodoo_simon]

Not sure what Scott you currently have, but I’m going to hazard a guess the dropout spacing is different from the scott to the alpkit, May result in new wheels. Also, i can’t see but does the headset size differ? I’d guess the alpkit is tapered, whilst the scott isn’t (again, not sure on which Scott you have).

Lastly, you’ll probably need new in cables at least, the cable routing on the alpkit is internal, so it’s always easier to route frames with fresh cables than ones that have been used/cut and liable to fray. Also, check the rear hose is long enough, going from a smaller to larger frame may mean the original brake hose is too short.

Not trying to sound negative, but just highlight some potential problems

[Bearbonesnorm]

Yeah, the Frontier is boost and tapered steerer. However, there are other frames out there that would be easier to swap ... something like a SH Inbred can usually be had cheaply.

[bikeandbivvy]

Ok thanks I think I will rule out swapping bits to a new frame and just concentrate on selling my old one for one that fits! Question answered!

[fatbikephil]

Best way to learn bike building is to get stuck in. Overall its easy with only basic spannering skills required. As per Stu an on one inbred is the cheapest way into a 29er rigid build (I have one but its cracked sadly...). Tons of info on the web. first suss out what you have, then what you want, then what you need. No worries reusing BBs, headsets, drivetrain etc. if they work on your old frame they will work on your new one.

[whitestone]

Building up a bike does seem a bit like black magic until you have a go. In a way it's like riding a bike - impossible until you can do it when you wonder what all the fuss was about You don't need many tools - a good set of Allen keys will do most things but bottom brackets and headsets tend to need specialist tools. If you've packed and unpacked a bike for taking on a flight then you've done most of what's needed.

A less frightening option might be to find a local bike mechanic and ask them if they could do a bike building session so you get guided through the process - you would be doing the work but an expert eye looking over you and giving helpful tips.

[giryan]

If you can find a local place to guide you it is a really useful experience (at least my experience doing it was)
I built a bike on a ~day course a few years ago, and since then have done it myself, only a fixie, not dealt with gear mechs etc, but I think I'd be OK :)

[Pirahna]

If you're going to take bits off a small frame and fit them to a bigger one, the fork steerer will probably be too short so budget for a new fork, the brake hoses will be too short, gear cables will be too short etc. Other things to look at for compatibility are bottom bracket (if it's different you'll need a new chainset), hub spacing and seatpost diameter.

[Bearbonesnorm]

If you do decide to go down this route and fancy a trip to Wales, I'd be happy to run you through the process ... arrive with a bike and a frame, leave with a bike and another frame

[jay91]

I built my first bike a 26" inbred up about 4-5 years ago I used the parktool big blue book of bike repair and a cheap tool kit off chain reaction
Its still going well today

[bikeandbivvy]

Thanks for the comments and offers. I did look at the On One Inbred but the website seemed to say it was a 26" hardtail?

Having put my bike up for sale again on Ebay again I'll see how that goes, but what a friendly forum offering help like this! Might just stick around :)