Haggis, neeps and bikes (Arkose, '93 Hardrock)

So on my eternal quest of trying to build a bike I like from an old steel frame...

Hardrock frame from 93? Couldn't colour match the frame with the catalogue.

Bought a few bits and bobs, mainly modern deore groupset, 10 speed! Also some wheels with a dynamo, cool.

The main aim was to get it built so I could get a feel for size and what handlebars I want.

Main gripes are the seapost + clamp situation, does not look good. As it is a 26.6mm post it's very hard to source a good looking one.

I'm hoping I can remove the branding from the seat post and eventually I'll just replace the quick release with a bolt.

The other annoyance is the absence of a rear cable stop which makes running v brakes untidy, there is a "problem solver" clamp on cable stop but at £19 I can't bring myself to buy...

Will be changing the stem, probably velo orange with removable faceplate so I can run some crazy bars or Geoff's.

Need a new saddle, hoping I can test drive some soon.

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Could get a bmx post and shim it

I have this Muddy Fox in storage at work... hoping I can access it soon so I can convert it to singlespeed. It's surprisingly fun to ride.

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Anyone had a similar issue and solved it with a better looking solution?

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I ended up riding that bike way more than I planned to, was good fun.

Tyre clearance on these old specialized frames is generous, you could run 2.3" easily. Maybe even bigger at the back if running singlespeed. Only issue is I need to deflate the front tyre to get the wheel through the v brakes...

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In that location I would use some good quality double sided tape like gorilla and mount it more under the tube without the tie wrap if you want the clean look.
https://cpc.farnell.com/gorilla-tape/3044101/double-sided-mounting-tape-25mmx1/dp/SA03358?mckv=s5fjteh6F_dc|pcrid|224653346133|kword||match||plid||slid||product|SA03358|pgrid|50784644841|ptaid|pla-896721473021|&CMP=KNC-GUK-CPC-SHOPPING&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIws76pJOa6QIVhLTtCh1evAJwEAQYAiABEgLXd_D_BwE

Another option I have also used is a more decorated variety. I have one of these under my BB shell as a hidden easter egg for keen eyed mechanics. https://www.martysreliable.com/product/dirty-dog-skull-cable-guides-243087-1.htm

I have a similar issue and just ordered these. We'll see how long it gonna last on a frame

Another thing you can do, in order to get a cleaner look, is using fishing thread instead of these plastic clips. E.g. https://www.instagram.com/p/B_I7dgOhmUR/

The mounting tape I could actually see working nicely, might order some and give it a go!

Yeah the tape is really legit. Given that its currently holding half my office together and the number plate on the front of my car it will work for that cable guide.

Was wondering why the drivetrain was "knocking".

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Replaced this with a bolt, much better, can't get over how ugly it looked.

Also have some nice bits planned...

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I used something similar to this on an old Muddy Fox before. Pricey but does the job. I think the one I got was from Origin 8.

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Cheaper options:
https://www.sjscycles.co.uk/down-tube-stops-fittings/
https://www.sjscycles.co.uk/cables/jtek-clampon-cable-guide-clip-286-mm-pack-of-3/

How do you lock the wire in place then?

Geoff bars installed, ESI grips in the post, need to re-cable the bike as they are a tad too tight. The goose stem is actually growing on me but not sure I trust it on the threadless adapter, it's probably fine but I'm a heavy rider...

Selling my Rockhopper means I've got some spare cash to throw on the bike so may order a VO stem to replace.

The flite saddle is horrendous for me so looking to buy a Brooks, can't decide on b17 or c17.

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Cockpit view

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Measuring the top tube diameter puts me into the middle of the two biggest clamp sizes. I may order the biggest just to test, thanks for the links!

ESI grips installed, pelago rack ordered, will allow me to put the wald basket in the basement to good use.

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Both your Specialized offerings look pretty good to the point they‘ve inspired me and I’ve bought my wife a Diamondback sorrento from 91, in keeping with your design ethos I’ll be fitting some big tan walls, any preference between the table tops and halos?

Table tops are my fav, quite a bit of rolling resistance though. I'd recommend Maxxis DTH if you want slicks, also come in tan wall ;)

I'll be ordering some Maxxis, and will be putting the halos on the muddy fox for hitting the forest.

Hey that looks like my groupset! Glad to see it on a Hardrock looking so rad

;)

Almost there? Re-cabled the bike, got out bidded on eBay for a 26.6 Thomson post so will have to figure something else out, talking to a chap about an NOS deore post which might look good.

Also can't decide on which Brooks to go for, cambium or leather.

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Hey thanks, her riding will likely consist of occasional road and (sometimes muddy) canal path type things so good as big slicks would look I’ll have to play it safe with some tread. Not sure TableTops are still available but BonkersBilly seem like an adequate replacement? Just realised I’ve got a pair of Charge splash backs that tick both the tanwall and tread boxes so may go with them to begin with.