Custom SSCX /commuter build

It's about time to start my own build thread.

Last year I have taken a framebuilding course at Kajak Custom. It was the first time I had a blowtorch in my hand, and the whole one week course has been a wonderful experience. The result has been waiting for over a year for proper funds. This thread will help me document the process.

All started wit a CAD drawing.

Followed by learning how to handle the torch, all the safety issues and a couple of test fillets. Then came prepping, measuring and cutting the tubes.

Checking the alignment, applying flux, tapping and laying main fillets.

Frame before cleaning and polishing.

And a couple of final shots.

You can browse through the whole HQ gallery on my flickr.

So, as I mentioned the project waited for proper funds. Over the past couple of weeks I have gathered the following parts:

• Hylix matt black cx carbon fork
  

• Sram Apex cranks
  

• FSA Vero Compact handlebars
  

• TRP RRL black brake levers
  

• Shimano Canti brakes

I still need rims - Archetypes, hubs - not decided yet, seatpost, stem, saddle and headset.
All the components will be black, with yellow frame and neon pink bar tape. And gumwalls.
I have to design my own decals too.

To be continued.

Lovin this!

Can I vote for orange tape with yellow, think it would look awesome.
Amazing frame though, looking forward to the full build

Awesome!

Nice project!

Bravo!

Real nice. Those forks look a bit funky on 1 1/8" headtubes with external cups though.

Save up for a Ritchey WCS/Easton/Whiskey.

I know, bought them cheap, but will save up for better ones.

Loving this. Looking forward to more info.

you have got good blow torching skills. it's hard to believe you have learnt that in one week. it'd take me years. how does it feel to build your own frame?

Feels really great. I'm no expert after a one week course, but with some practise, as the framebuilder said - enyone can build a frame. With proper guidance of course.

FSA Pig headset could solve that.

Yep, Pig is on my shopping list.

As for the color scheme, it will look a bit like my current ride.

1 Attachment

Quick mockup. Everything I already have exept the brakes (in the basement). This will go to my LBS next week for a test build with my current wheels.

Collecting this from the local framebuilder, the seattube needed reaming before instaling the seatpost. First ride tomorrow!

1 Attachment

Lovely... You said you wanted to use the colour scheme from your other bike, but are you going just clear lacquer now?

That is very nice; why didnt you go for Rocker or Surly/Condor Tempo style fwd facing dropouts?

Not definite need for it since no mudguard allowances maybe?

No paint at the moment, still haven't decided which way to go.
I like the look Paragon dropouts and I will be running it as single speed for most of the time so these are just enough.

First test ride to work today. Just a couple of km but feels great already.

1 Attachment

#NDSfail but lovely ride; I like the look of those Hylix forks; a little high on crown-to-axle .. can you tell us how much it cost you? Or if you have a spreadsheet or something. Needs detailed shots :)

Edit: Just saw the CAD, how tall are you?

Will get better pics for sure. Fork is from ebay, costed me 100$ with free shipping from Taiwan.
I'm 172 cm, wanted a higher front end compared to my previous rides. First short ride was very comfortable, but I have to go for something longer and off road for final testing.

Nice!
More pictures soon please.

First proper ride today.

1 Attachment