rmc2112

Looking to get my first fixed gear after years of road and mountain biking. I am debating on building a state 4130 frame up with some miscellaneous parts I have lying around plus a Mavic wheelset from velomine or just buying a Surly Steamroller complete. Anyone have any insight? Both frames look to be 4130. After pricing everything out it looks like the State build would be about 300 bucks cheaper with all of the parts that I have.

bonsai171

If you have the tools to build a bike and know how to get a good chainline, by all means build one! It is so much fun. Definitely a good learning experience and a chance to buy more park tools lol. All kidding aside, building your own bike will let you customize it to your preferences/specs/fit. A steamroller could be modified too, but might cost even more if you don't like the stock components.

Dave

FBinNY 

Building or buying is strictly up to you.

However, give some though to the rear triangle. First of all, you want horizontal dropouts because you want to be able to move the wheel forward and back. Then you might want narrower rear rear axle width. Tyical road frames are wider than needed for SS use, and while you can get a wider hub and still have decent chainline, it's easier with a narrower frame.

rEVOLVED

Some of State's frames are indeed 4130, but they are nowhere near the same quality as Surly. If you can afford the Steamroller, and you know that you are going to love owning a fixed gear, go for it! Also, I think the State has much less room for wide tires. Do you plan to do mostly road riding, or will this bike ever become a SS/FG gravel/winter bike? From what I've ridden from State, I would totally use one of their frames, but probably only if I was willing to upgrade components. Again, not the same caliber as a Steamroller.

Carcosa

Why not build up a steamroller?