Advice for a first-time self-build

Phideaux
Phideaux Posts: 87
edited March 2009 in Workshop
Having looked around at various S/H bikes, none of which took my fancy, fit or I could afford, I've decided to take a leap of faith and try and build my own (for the first time) and probably spend double the £££ I had set aside for a bike originally.

I could do with some advice on how best to go about this. I have bought (and started to read) "Zinn & the Art of Road Bike Maintenance" so at least I've got an initial reference point.

I'm looking to standardise on Shimano - either 105 or Ultegra, so long as they are compatible.

Ideally I'm looking to build something around 58-61cm (preferably with a horizontal top tube, although I'm open to persuasion), carbon forks, capable of taking mudguards for wet weather and at least 700x28c but preferably 700x32c Marathon Plus tyres.

So, any advice, recommendations, tips and particularly pointers to sources of quality (S/H if possible) parts would be most appreciated :D

I guess that starting with a frame would be wise (although I've got a Ultegra crankset 53/39T already).

For wheels I was thinking of the Mavic (M40 rear and M3 front) on Shimano hubs?

Thanks,
Simon
Whether you think you can, or whether you think you can't, you're probably right.

Comments

  • Monty Dog
    Monty Dog Posts: 20,614
    For wrenching tips look on ParkTool and Sheldon Brown. 105 and Ultegra are inter-compatible. In terms of brakes, make sure you get 57mm deep-drop calipers to fit your tyres, but may be a squeeze with mudguards.
    I'd find a suitable frame first before your buy things like forks, seatpost, headset, stem etc.
    Make mine an Italian, with Campagnolo on the side..