It has been a while. My last post was about a month ago. The biggest reason for slowing down is component stock. I cannot find both the derailleur and the shifter for SRAM Eagle GX in stock. To a large degree, this is also affecting other components, most notably wheels. A reason, maybe not a significant one, for building an MTB was the global supply of bikes is still horrible due to COVID-19. These issues have affected other components in the supply chain too.
I did finally find some wheels. I ended up with the Ibis S35. The wide profile of the rim seems to make sense to me. Ibis (and others) says that this wide profile makes the sidewall stand up better and under decreased tire pressure. We’ll see.
I also finally received my back-ordered stem from PNW Components and SRAM G2 R brakes that I ordered from Great Northern Cycles. And finally, to go with the rims and brakes, I added 200mm brake rotors + 40mm spacers. The SRAM G2 R brakes have 4 pistons of stopping power combined with the 200mm rotors, this bike should be able to stop on a dime. Last but not least, a 10–52T cassette for gnarly climbs, or weak legs, and fast descents.
I can now start working on the handlebars and cockpit items. I’ve been reading up on shortening the brake cables and the dropper post. This is going to be lots of pain. However, watching videos of brake bleeds, I’m thinking I may just take it into the LBS to have that done.
I haven’t talked much about weight since I really don’t have a goal in mind. I say really, but I do. I want a light bike which is why I went with a carbon frame. However, if I wanted a totally light MTB, I would’ve gone with carbon wheels and handlebars.
So where am I? I’m at 11,555 grams or 25.5 lbs.
That number does not include chain, pedals, or saddle. It does include the spec weight for the shifter and derailleur.
While I haven’t started to assemble the components into a bike yet, except for the rear shock, I did start routing cables through the frame. I’m also considering the bottom bracket and crank as well as the fork, headset, and handlebars. The difficult part is determining the length of the steer tube. I don’t want to cut it too short, so I’m considering getting a bunch of spacers to place it pretty high and fine tuning later.
