Frame Modifications - Gravel Bike Conversion - Part 1

[@ReportReport-fz2pn]

Brilliant, once again. Such a great resource for hobbyist wanting to build or modify a bike, or even pros who could glean tips to upgrade the production values of their online content.

[@ThriftyFramebuilder]

Thanks! My YT content is slowly getting better, I think. Still don’t feel like I really know what I’m doing when it comes to video production though.

[@soylentgreen326]

Adapt and repurpose and again ❤ excellent first go at the rack 🎯

[@ThriftyFramebuilder]

Thanks!! I love a frame that can be set up a lot of different ways.

[@el90moro]

Man your work (and your channel) is truly awesome, keep it up!

[@ThriftyFramebuilder]

Thanks!! Will do!

[@Matahalii]

Nice explains, as I am about to modify my old lugged steel frame from internal geared hub to rear + front derailieur together with matching cable guides and stopps. I wonder if it is possible to braze on some derailieur hanger like you did by welding... But my dropouts open to the front and are thin sheet steel.

[@ThriftyFramebuilder]

Thanks! I’m sure you could braze a hanger to an old stamped steel dropout, but it might take some work to fit it correctly. I’m guessing you’re planning to cut the hanger off another steel frame or buy a steel dropout and cut off the hanger (I believe most replacement hangers are aluminum). But it is probably a lot easier to find a bolt on hanger, or use a derailleur that includes a hanger like a Microshift M21 or some Shimano Tourney models. The downside to those is you’re probably limited to 6 or 7 speeds. Personally I’d try and find a bolt on derailleur hanger that would work with your dropout. That’s what I did on this frame before I had one welded on. At the most you’d need to drill and tap a hole in the dropout.

[@cyclingrepublic]

Great work. You always give me ideas to modify my own fleet. What mini belt sander is it you’re using?

[@ThriftyFramebuilder]

Thanks!!! It’s a “Wen Detailed File Sander”. Have I mentioned I’m cheap?

[@TheThomasraven]

Hey, I love the content, and I dont mean to provide possible incorrect information, but I have watched a couple of videos that say using isopropyl isn't the healthiest of options for you or your lungs if brazed over. Paul brodie mentioned something about it in a video, not too long ago. I think the consensus is to use acetone, but again, i could be wrong! I'm sorry to question your workflow, but I figured it was worth mentioning

[@ThriftyFramebuilder]

Thanks for the comment! I’ll have to look into that… I do wear a respirator with organic vapor filters when brazing (unlike Brodie) so I wonder if I’m OK? I used to clean the tubes with acetone, but read about its health hazards (people developing an acetone sensitivity) so I switched to isopropyl. 🤷‍♂️ I agree it seems most people use acetone. I might have to reconsider!