Converting an existing frame to a coupled frame with S&S couplers

[Saab2000]

So there's this frame out there in the ether of the internet that would 1. fit me and 2. appear to be an ideal candidate for a coupling.

It's in Independent Fabrication steel Crown Jewel. I've e-mailed a buddy at IF about this but I'm also curious about conversions of existing frames in general and things to beware of.

If any builders here have experience with this type of procedure I'd love to hear about it. What problems might arise? Is it just as costly as having one done from the ground up?

Thanks for any thoughts on this subject.

[robin3mj]

I'm no framebuilder, but I say do it.
I have an IF CJ and a coupled bike, and wish they were one and the same.

I would guess the big thing is to know what kind of pipes it was built with, so the guy with the torch and tell you whether it's doable or not.

Also- depending on what color the frame is to start with, I think that leaving the cut area bare (clearcoated?) looks pretty dope.

[roseyscot]

Do the Ritchey BreakAway frames fit you? If so, I think they are damn hard to beat as far as bang for the buck, and would probably be close to the cost of chopping the IF up. I love mine.

[Rody]

Saab2000,

Some quick answers...

Yes, it is an acceptable and fairly easy conversion.

Insure that there are couplers available in the diameter of the top tube and down tube before purchasing the frame as they are made in fairly standard increments and nothing unusual.

Ideally, the coupler should reside within the thick section of the butted tubing.

Availability of the original paint code is important for touchup.

Expect to pay around 600 - 800 bucks for the work dependent on the level of paint work required (touch up vs. full repaint).

rody

[steve garro]

Bilenky is your ticket.
They have a mostly dedicated S&S guy, and they will paint it too.
- Garro.

[mjbabcock]

dude, just buy the $600 frameset/box on the Paceline forum and be done with it

It's not going to last

[Saab2000]

You were right. I didn't last. I looked just now and someone has spoken for it.