I tried installing a used Sugino bottom bracket that matched a set of cranks I had, but I could (once I got it mostly in) that it was really worn out. What was most intimidating was the prospect of installing the headset and the bottom bracket. I had already completely replaced the drive train on the 56cm frame, so this task wasn't very daunting. The 56cm frame was definitely causing strain on my ride (especially in my lower back muscles), so I replaced it the 50cm one pictured below. I had been riding a silver 979 that was 57cm for quite some time, always knowing that it was rather large for me-I'm roughly 5'6", but I have fairly long reach for my height. These parts were to be added to my "new" frame: a black Vitus 979. I built the drive train to match my rear wheel's gear set, which is 8-speed built on a Dura-Ace hub. I went with upper-middle tier Shimano parts from the mid-90s (the Shimano 600 line, which is now called "Ultegra"), since they're generally in excellent condition, function very well, and cost significantly less than newer parts. I spent less than $400 total, a sum that I expect to make back in gas savings alone by the middle of 2008 (more on this will come in a later post). Building a bike from scratch was a great learning experience, and I'd encourage anyone with a remote interest to check it out. I've been biking to work on my "new" bike for a while now, and I've been intending to post about it for some time.
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