Bootsiebee's Bike Build...

So, unfortunately the events that follow happened over the course of the last month or so, but haven't made it here until now...  

So, after much thought and LOTS AND LOTS AND LOTS of advice from everyone (thanks, I think), I made the decision to build my own bike (with adult supervision of course).  Why?  Well, I wanted to learn more about my bike so that I could take care of her better in the future (I think I just now established that my new bike will be a she). I also wanted the satisfaction of building her myself. Of course there's always the fact that I get to hand pick every part.

So the story begins...

Step #1:  Decision to build bike vs. buying one already assembled.

Step #2:  The good old Hard Tail vs. Full Suspension dilemma.  Hard Tail Won.

Step #3:  Hire someone who knows what the fuck  

they're doing cuz I sure as hell don't & promise to feed them beer in return for their knowledge. Done.

Step #4:  Mission Statement:  Build a bike that is #1 Lightweight, #2 Low Maintenance, & #3 Within Budget.

Step #5:  Determine Budget - $1500 is the Magic   Number.  Gotta have money left for beer at MORBID events!!!

                                                                         

       

Step #6:  Decide on a frame - Salsa Ala Carte Steel is real baby.  Ride & Smile! 

Step #7:  Pick out components...Separate Blog!!!

Step #8:  Prodeal Prodeal Prodeal!!!  (it's good to   be an REI employee)  Most of my components were ordered from REI.  I did however support my LBS with the purchase of my beautiful Red Chris King HS.  It was really just an excuse to go hang with Chuck @ Behind Bars - good stuff. 

                    Let me just tell you a bit about the service we've received at this LBS!  Our first trip out was a Sunday afternoon. Our arrival was about 5 minutes past close, but the guys came to the door & let us in even after we told them we just wanted to look at their t-shirts/jerseys.  The second time we were in we were hoping to check out sizing for my Salsa Ala Carte & even though they didn't have the bike there Chuck was eager to order one so I could try it out!  If you like a cozy welcoming feel to your LBS, this is the place to go.  Ok... back on track...

                                                                                      

Step #9:  Waiting, waiting, waiting for bike parts to arrive.

Step #10:  It's Christmas!  Parts are flowing in and everyday feels like Christmas. More to come as the build continues.  ETA... this Wednesday in time for a trip to UP!!!