Page 1 of 1

Making the switch to 29er

Posted: Wed Feb 06, 2013 11:27 am
by Dan_K
I'm hoping that a whole new bike is in the pipeline but if it isn't, I want to change the frame on my 26er anyway so it would probably be an idea to get a 29er frame for the type of riding I do.
Is it literally as simple as buying a frame, fork and wheels and then switching all the other bits over?

It would probably be an Inbred 29er frame and Exotic carbon forks unless anyone can suggest alternatives for similar money.

You may have guessed already but i'm not that great with bike mechanics but i'd like to do these things myself rather than go to a shop as i'll never learn otherwise.

Re: Making the switch to 29er

Posted: Wed Feb 06, 2013 11:44 am
by Ray Young
Depends on the sizing of seat tube, headset and bottom bracket but this should be easy enough to find out. Things that might not swap straight over are seat post and binder, front mech, headset and bottom bracket. You may also need a low rise stem, flat bars and a cassette with lower gearing. Don't think i've missed anything out except maybe new cables.

Re: Making the switch to 29er

Posted: Wed Feb 06, 2013 11:45 am
by Bearbonesnorm
That's pretty much it Dan. Just remember that things like seatposts/clamps might be a different size and brake hoses ang gear cables may not be long enough.

IMO Inbred's a great bit of kit at a very good price.

Re: Making the switch to 29er

Posted: Wed Feb 06, 2013 1:17 pm
by Dan_K
Ta for the info. Watch this space......

Re: Making the switch to 29er

Posted: Wed Feb 06, 2013 2:59 pm
by Cheeky Monkey
If it's an HT2 BB then fitting is usually a case of scrounging spacers from someone / shop.

Disc brake fittings (including the hose lengths mentioned by Stu) can be an issue, whether they're post or IS mount and if you're going to run the same size rotors.

Chainlength might be an issue (can shorten an old chain but not usually lengthen it, much).

New tyres and tubes (from 26 to 29).

Headset compatibility worth checking too. Steerer diameter top and bottom plus fitting in the HT.

If that all starts to sound a bit of a challenge it's not. And even when it is a bit, it's a good feeling to lashed a bike together yourself 8-)