So here goes with the first bits on the bike. The Aheadset bearings, forks and seatpost. Yes you read that right - seatpost.
Before we start I'll freely confess I wasn't the best bike shop mechanic ever (apologies to anyone who frequented Richard's Bikes in Exeter in the early 90's). There are probably some superb mechanics out there with some great tips or reasons that we're doing stuff wrong / not as easily as we could. Please pitch in at any point with suggestions on postcards / pedal wrenches etc.
Seatpost first?????
What?
Plugging the seatpost in first means you have a handy handle to clamp in work stands and stuff while building the rest of the bike. It's most useful on really light bikes where tubes can be crushed by work stand clamps, or curious shaped suspension bikes where there is nowhere else to clamp them.
Which?
We went for Thomson's Elite post. £59.95 from E Reece 0121 4462600
Why?
Light enough, but a sturdy fore and aft two bolt clamp. Before you ask, yes it is bent. It gives the correct layback of the saddle but still keeps the two bolt security. It also helps to hide the slightly disjointed look of the SID shock back end.
We'd also definitely be tempted by Easton and Race Face, but we'll probably be using them elsewhere.
How?
Check you've got exactly the right diameter for your frame - it's printed on the seatpost, and check it's long enough to give the right saddle height. Slap on some grease to stop it seizing into the frame, plug it in and bolt up the collar. Job done.
Before we forget.
