choosing a new dual suspension frame

[Audible Anarchy]

Im looking at buying a second hand MTB frame. How do i know if all the parts i have for the build, will work with the frame i choose? What do i need to measure / check?

 

I have a 120mm Rock shox recon silver i want to use on the front- does the rear travel have to match the fork? will be used for casual riding / trail jumps etc...

[MrJacques]

What frame is it?

[BBN]

Before you do anything, make sure you have all the bearings and bushes checked and/or changed, especially with a carbon frame! If a pivot jams your frame is toast.

Edited November 16, 2012 by big bad norm

[rouxtjie]

Ok so first check if your frame's suits the 120mm travel of the fork you want to gooi on and if the new frame can fit your steerer(tapered or straight). Next check seatpost size, BB type and headset(tapered or straight)..also if your front dr is compatible(top pull, bottom pull...bolt-on). These are the major things to check if you plan to do a component switcharoo. It will be a good idea to start with fresh cables and housing. You might need to buy somethings here and there, its almost never a case of everything fits perfectly

[Hilton.]

I'll add my 2 cents on just on one aspect of the frame: The front derailleur (I've been looking into this recently)

 

Firstly, check whether the frame supports a direct mount, high swing or low swing front derailleur, and whether the cable guides are on the down tube (allows for bottom pull front derailleur) or under the top tube (allows for a top pull). Some front derailleurs are dual pull. High swing or low swing is, I think, largely determined by the location of the bottle cage bosses (screw points).

 

Also check the seat tube circumference to know which size front derail clamp you need, either a 32 or a 34.9 clamp. (I think a look at the seat post diameter (27, 30.9, 31.6 etc) will give you an idea of the front derail clamp size you need.

 

EDIT: Rouxtjie beat me to some of it. Yes, check bottom bracket (BB) width etc.

Edited November 16, 2012 by uoʇl!ʜ

[Audible Anarchy]

legends!

 

Lastly, how do i choose the amount of rear travel? does it need to match the fork?

[dimsum]

The rear travel does not need to match the front travel. Rear travel depends on the use of the bike....ie. if you want to use it for AM then the rear shock would probably be about 140.

 

I've got a Fox 140mm rear shock and a Recon silver 120mm front shock and the bike rides really well.

[rouxtjie]

legends!

 

Lastly, how do i choose the amount of rear travel? does it need to match the fork?

Not necessarily but mostly its balanced...like in 100mm back 100mm front. This is frame specific and if you don't stick to it might impact your warrantee so its best to go with manufacturers specifications.

 

Ok so which frame is it?

[Audible Anarchy]

still shopping for a frame...

 

thinking along the likes of a GT sensor / Giant Trance / Santa Cruz if i can find a bargain

[Audible Anarchy]

26"