"Day 1"

I write "Day 1" like it's actually the first day I've been working on or thinking about this build. I "started" this build in February when IRO did a group-buy for a low-cost frameset. The idea was, instead of powder-coating my Bianchi Pista, I would just buy the IRO, swap all the parts, and then sell the Pista frame, essentially spending $0. But I've ridden bikes with better wheelsets and I knew how great they were. So I thought maybe I'd just upgrade the wheels... 4 months later and plans have changed drastically. I got several good deals on used parts from a forum I'm on, and at this point, my parts are worth way more than the frame is. I've also been riding my bike a lot more, and realized its flaws. At this point, by the time the IRO arrives, it will be nothing more than a placeholder for parts that will eventually go on a handbuilt frame that I'll be undertaking. But that's a whole 'nother blog entirely. Here's the rundown from February til now.

1. Frame ordered in February from IRO. Paid $50 upfront, still waiting for Tony to collect the remaining monies. Frames are currently en route from Taiwan.
2. Went through potential builds: blacked out, grocery/cargo bike, super budget.. etc Finally going "classy" as i could. Something like this:
3. Started priceshopping and figuring out what total build cost would be.
4. Ordered parts I knew I would still want even if others changed. Ordered Sun Rims, Seatpost and headset from Nashbar
5. The same week in May I picked up some used GR-9 pedals (which are now on my 10-spd) and used Sugino 75's from forum members. Thanks!
6. Traded an old mountain bike for a track chain. Believe me, I got a good deal.
7. Picked up a NIB Sugino 75 BB from a forum member in San Jose. Thanks!
8. Bought a cheap Sugino Mighty Compe 46t chainring from forum member in Santa Barbara. Just got here yesterday, June 12th. It needs some love, which hopefully some Simichrome will fix.