I have always wanted to build a frame, preferably a full suspension 29er. I have never welded however have contact's who could help. I have machined man parts for my bike before, chain-guide, chain ring bolts, headset cap and am pretty competent on a lathe.
Has anyone on here done it without going on a course?
How tricky was it?
What material? - ideally i would like to use steel!
Guessing i need to make a good jig!
Steel, composite or wood - all "common" DIY frame materials.
I want to build a wooden framed full suspension e-bike!
The Eden project are running a workshop to allow you to build your own bamboo frame.
You can even cut your own from their greenhouse.
Someone said to me, so, you have a 3d printer. Yup. And you can work fibreglass. Yup. So you could totally make your own carbon frame... Why would you plant that idea in my head, you monster!
I have machined man parts for my bike before
😯 😯
You can but it can take a while. I've done it and stuck some rambling on a thread (that i must update).
I think was over a year just getting geometry where i wanted it, then building the jig, buying the material list goes on and on.
If going full suss work backwards, get your shock and fixings/ bearings first to work from.
There's nothing better than riding a bike you've made, be prepared for all manner of grumpy comments telling you what you've done wrong and why you'll die in a minute.
Quite timley as i'm just starting swingarm 2.
@northwind, it can be done you know you want to.
I've done about 10 frames plus repairs, disc mounts etc and never been on a course.
Brazing is maybe easier than welding - it really depends what equipment you have access to. Flat surface, vee blocks and some turned bosses for bb / ht is the minimum jig.
Ceeway is a good source of parts and tubing. Lots of info on Mtbr frame building Forum and velocipede salon but probably best to avoid posting unless you have a very specific question....
Mail me if you need any shonky advice or some photos of set up and tooling etc.