Advice: Building a 20 lb. Hardtail XC Mountain Bike

08-03-2004, 05:24 AM

Howdy,

Someone stole my trusty (heavily modified) Trek 930 last month that
I'd been riding since 1992. I've been out of the 'gear' loop for
years now. I'd like to build a 20 lb. Hardtail XC Mountain Bike
that's rigid, smooth, and durable (possibly with two wheel sets: one
mountain and one road -- kind of like the Cannondale Bad Boy Ultra,
but lighter).

I'd appreciate any input based on experience.

(1) Suggestions on reasonably priced lightweight frames?

(1a) How is Cannondale's current "Optimo Mountain" frame?

(1b) What about Cannondale's 2001 "CAAD5" frame? (Is there a problem
with fitting new brakes on this frame -- say, the Avid Ball Bearing
Disc Brake? I ask because I've read: "The 4 bolt rotors suck big time
if you want to get new wheels, or brakes." and "Cannondale's use of
only 4 rotor screw to secure the Hayes Discs to their hubs are not
good nor secure as the standard 6 rotor screw set-up.")

(2) Suggestions on light, durable, quality component sets?

(2a) I like a bike that doesn't require constant fiddling. Are disc
brakes worth the trouble?

Many thanks,
-Hans.

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