A lot of cyclers are torn between buying and building a mountain bike. Each presents its pros and cons. However, the building gives you an option to engage in craftsmanship to build a bike customized to your needs.
It is worth noting that creating a bike is often more expensive than buying a ready-made one. However, with keen research, you can find parts that are at discounted prices to make the building affordable.
The other factor to consider is the compatibility of the parts. While most bike parts are standardized, at times issues of compatibility can rise. If possible stick to the same brand of parts otherwise explores to find what works.
Building a mountain bike is not as complicated as many people think. It is however advisable to work with an experienced rider or a bike shop mechanic as you build especially on your first build.
Here is a list of the parts that will be assembled:
Frame
Fork
Handlebar stem
Wheels
Handlebars
Bottom Bracket
Derailleurs
Crankset
Pedals
Brakes (both)
Chain
Saddle
Adjustment of brakes
Now, let’s delve into the actual building process.
1. Frame
The frame is the backbone of the bike. There are numerous frame sizes and designs to choose from to suit your riding style and the size of the bike. And for the new users, you can find cheap MTB frames but good quality ones to buy. Once you have found the right frame, the next step is to fill the main wholes with the right parts.
2. Install the Headset
To install the headset, bang the cups on the headset on the head tube with a mallet.
3. Install the Front Wheel and Back Wheel
The front fork will hold the front wheel and also host the shock absorbers. Set the crown race in the headset on the fork steerer tube on the fork crown. If the fork steerer is not cut to the required length, cut to the ideal length. Use a start to join the parts.
4. Wheels Come in Different Sizes and Shapes
The ideal design of mountain bike wheels is thick and tough to be able to maneuver rough terrains. The wheel comes put together with the different parts: rim, hubs, and spokes.
5. Now, Attach the Tires
The tires and the disc brake rotors should be attached to the fork’s rear dropout and attached to the frame’s rear dropout. Lock the fork on the head tube using a top cap bolt. Do the same to install the back wheel. Finish installing the wheel by installing the cassette.
6. Install the Cockpit
The cockpit entails the handler and control components. The control components are shifters, brakes, and both grips. Attach the handlebar to the stem. Then, attach the grips.
7. Set up the Drivetrain
Derailleur on the frames of the seat tube. Next, attach the rear derailleur to the hanger at the rear dropout. Wrap the chain around the chainring through the front derailleur, through the cassette into the rear derailleur jockey wheels.
8. Install your Brake Calipers
The brake calipers should be installed on the front fork and the rare seat post. The correct caliper-mounting bracket that matches the rotor must be installed.
9. Take Hold of Your Cable Cutter.
Cut the derailleur hose and cables to the right length needed for your front and back derailleurs. Proceed to attach the cable and hose to the derailleur. You can begin with either the rear or front derailleur.
10. Installing the Saddle and Pedals
Install the saddle and pedals and tune the derailleurs and the disc brake calipers to ensure that the pads are not rubbing the rotors. Lightly grease the seat post to the insert line and slide the seat post then tighten it or close the seat post clamp.
11. For the pedals, grease them and thread them as far in as possible
Use your Allen wrench to tighten your pedals firmly. Congratulations, you have completed building your mountain bike.
12. Do a Pre-ride Check
Before riding, it is important to do a check to ensure that your bike is functioning well. Below is a pre-ride checklist:
Tires: squeeze the tires firmly and look out for a squishy sound.
Front shifting. Ensure that the front derailleur shifts seamlessly up and down on the front chainrings.
Check rear shifting. Pedal the bike to ensure that the rear derailleur-shifted smoothly up and down the rear cog.
Check the brakes. Compress the brake lever to ensure that the brakes are not making contact with the wheels nor are they rubbing into the wheel or the discs.
Check that all bolts are tight and secure
In case there are defects, do not ride before they have been fully reconciled.
The above are the tips, we do hope it helps you a lot, if you want to know more info, please check our official website: https://www.trifoxbike.com/