First Bike Build - Commences this Weekend

Nuggs
Nuggs Posts: 1,804
edited October 2008 in Workshop
Hi Gang

I'm picking up a Racelight TK frame and Kenesis 12k forks from my LBS on Saturday (very excited).

It's my first build.

Any tips about what order to do things in and what to watch out for?

Comments

  • Slow Downcp
    Slow Downcp Posts: 3,041
    Remember to grase all threads and parts (except if carbon), take things slowly and don't overtighten anything. I'd start with putting all bits on the bike first, and then cable and chain. Bar tape doesn't go on until everything done, checked and position double checked.

    I'm in the same position - Enigma frame should be arriving today, all the parts came last week. Looking forward to building and giving it a quick spin at the weekend 8)
    Carlsberg don't make cycle clothing, but if they did it would probably still not be as good as Assos
  • mr_mojo
    mr_mojo Posts: 200
    I'm about to start building up my second bike. On the first bike I started by fitting the forks, headset and handlebars first then onto the bottom bracket and chainset. Next was front and rear mech's then brakes. I found it easier to install the brake levers onto the handlebars before fitting the bars to the bike. Fit the wheels and then finally was the chain, all cables, seat pin and saddle.

    I agree with Slow Downcp about greasing and not to over tighten. I also recommend you buy a maintenance bike stand as it makes it much easier to work on the bike.

    Don't rush things!
  • Ash_
    Ash_ Posts: 385
    Nuggs wrote:
    Any tips about what order to do things in and what to watch out for?


    Get your bike shop to fit the headset. It's not a job that is particularly satisfying anyway, but one where you could potentially ruin frame, forks, or both.

    The tools to do the job properly aren't worth the cost to the hobby mechanic (even though there's a recent article on thewashingmachinepost about such things now being cheaper).

    Take your time. Don't expect to get it all done in a day. If you get stuck, ask on here - someone will give you good advice. Enjoy the process.

    Good luck!
  • Nuggs
    Nuggs Posts: 1,804
    Ash_ wrote:
    Get your bike shop to fit the headset. It's not a job that is particularly satisfying anyway, but one where you could potentially ruin frame, forks, or both.
    Oh yes - I've asked them to fit the headset and BB; I don't fancy either of those jobs myself.

    Mr Mojo - I've just bought a Park PRS-20 which is a lovely stand and will no doubt make the whole experience infinitely more enjoyable. In fact, on my lunch breaks this week, I've acquired quite a bit of Park paraphernalia in preparation!
  • Barrie_G
    Barrie_G Posts: 479
    Good luck with the build and I hope all goes well for you>

    I'm about to start on mine sometime over the winter, I've got the frame (enigma eclipse) and three quarters of the bits, just trying to decide which wheels and tyres to get then I'll be pretty much ready to start :?

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