baycat

Been patient, utilized the Art of Zinn thoroughly (great book!) and tried to build up my bike to no wonderful avail. Full susser and I had a bike shop put the fork, headset and crankset in. But I am going to do the rest and would really like to find someone who can actually show me step-by-step how to build up this bike, I am much better visual learner, esepcially when I watch someone.

So does anyone know a shop/person/anything that can help me build up my bike, hydraulic brakes to running cables to installing shifters, in the Bay Area and show me the process? We can call it gentle hand holding for mechanically deficient wannabe bike builders!

Reply to this thread or better yet PM me, thanks!

HillRider

Have you talked to the guys at the shop that did the work so far? They would be good ones to solicit for advice and individual attention. Maybe over a pizza and beer after hours.

genericbikedude

isn't there a co-op in SF? maybe ask in the fixed forum if there is a repair co-op that can help you out. just don't tell them it is for a geard ride, and they'll be nice

jazzy_cyclist

Timing might be an issue, but in my area (New England) some of the LBS'es give classes that are broadly sponsored by Park Tools (usually over Fall-Winter time frame). There are two courses: one is a couple of evenings and includes minor adjustments, changing flats, things like that. The other is two full back-to-back Saturdays that is more intensive.

I took the simple class last year, and it was good at building my confidence in doing minor stuff. I'm also thinking of doing a "build-up" this winter, so I will probably do the more intensive class. The class quality relies a lot on who teaches it, as the curriculum is not real detailed.

Another approach might be to find a local club which has just the mentor that you seek.

jdtschida

If you need a visual look at how it works, why not set another working bike up next to the one you are building and compare them as you go?