Recently I've been thinking about getting a hardtail for some thrashing in the winter muck. It then struck me that what I could actually do is just swap over the components from my Yeti SB66c over to a new frame...more hassle I guess, but a whole lot less money.
So now to probe the singletrack hive mind - any recommendations for a hardtail frame which I could sub in over said Yeti without too much hassle? It would need to be 26", 12x142 hub spacing etc.
I always recommend what I have I guess, but Transition Transam. 26" 12x142.
Great frame.
I'd try to build up a bargain parts bin bike if the idea is to schlep it for winter. Some bargains out there usually and it's a shame to have to mess about swapping parts.
I'd go for a Cotic BFe 27.5 - yes that's technically a 27.5 frame but it has a high BB so the geometry will be great (better IMO) with 26" wheels, and your 160mm 26" fork will be about the same length as a 150mm 27.5 fork. You'd need a 30.9 to 31.6 shim for the seat post.
I think the list of actual 26" hardtails that take 12x142 axles is pretty short - some Stantons and Privee Shan?
I'd second the build it out of budget components Vs stripping down your current bike. Then you have both for days when you want more out of your riding and days or weeks when the conditions are vile!
Cassette / chain / rings take a beating in winter so buy (say) Deore for the winter bike. You may find a search of second hand bikes yields something decent enough for a winter thrash bike. FYI in 2012 my winter hardtail project morphed into the BFe which is now my main bike 🙂
I'd go for a budget hardtail instead, something like a Genesis tarn. Imagine those really cracking crisp winter mornings, when you can actually get the FSer out and ride it almost like summer? Swapping kit over would curtail that.
I'd try to build up a bargain parts bin bike if the idea is to schlep it for winter. Some bargains out there usually and it's a shame to have to mess about swapping parts.
. Imagine those really cracking crisp winter mornings, when you can actually get the FSer out and ride it almost like summer? Swapping kit over would curtail that.
To be honest, I think the lack of options might be pushing me down the cheap hardtail road anyway. I picked up the yeti for a steal (26ers aint dead!) so I'm sure I could scope about for a similar bargain 26er hardtail.
Good advice hive mind!
I think the list of actual 26" hardtails that take 12x142 axles is pretty short - some Stantons and Privee Shan?
I don't think that the original Slackline ever had a bolt through rear end, it was always a 135mm QR. The Switchback was the first bike to get the changeable drop outs.