FIRST POST Just got this frame except for the wheels from a buddy. Wanted to turn it into my first gravel bike.
Idk where to start. Idk what cassette I need for the rear. I assume I need 700cc rims. Wondering what tires I’ll be able to fit in such a thin frame.
Or does this frame not have the geometry for it and I would be better off getting something else.
Thanks for any help!!
by Technical_Possible69
6 Comments
Definitely need a frame with more tire clearance. I don’t think you could fit more than road tires in there.
In theory you can ride anything on gravel, but a gravel bike’s geo will be more relaxed (read: stable) and possibly more compliant for rougher roads. I had a cyclocross bike that was unstable on fast descents but great on tight corners, as they should be. Find out what your rear hub width is as it will dictate the wheels you will be searching for. 105 and Ulty are good components, but you’ll likely need new cables and housing for your rear derailleur. Be careful before investing too much money into the bike; figure out how much wheels are going to cost you, what condition the BB is in, and check out the headset. A free bike is like a free car; don’t expect miracles, but you might get lucky. Your LBS should help you get the low down on the bike’s overall condition.
Do nothing to it. Buy some affordable wheels with the widest tyres you can fit (probably 28mm). Ride it on smooth gravel and call it good. The best gravel bike, is the one that you have.
The more you ride it, the more you’ll understand what you need. At this point, no need to worry about things like that. Just enjoy the ride. 😎
Also, maybe take a look at the DIY bikefit video by Neil Stanbury on YouTube. Only if you have doubts or comfort issues of course.
Anyway, happy NBD!
Forgot to mention, the shifter capacity will dictate what cassette you need. Looks like a mid-2000’s shifter so 10 speed cassette, maybe.
Thinking further, you’re gonna need a new cassette, chain rings and chain as well because a drivetrain has to wear together. Old chain rings won’t mesh great with a new chain based in the assumed age of the bike and chain rings. A new drivetrain makes any bike almost like new.
I think your only option here would be a business in the front party in the back setup. Get a wider tire clearance fork and run like 47s. Slam as wide of tires you can in the rear, but maybe even drop down to 650B in the rear and use v brake throw adapters. That would help slack out the geo as well.
When I saw the picture + the caption saying “help needed”, my immediate thought was, “damn, he got his wheels stolen”