This looks like an interesting frame:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Saracen-Tufftrax-Frame-1995-steel-retro-vintage-red-mountain-mtb-bike-bicycle-/380620503393?pt=UK_sportsleisure_cycling_bikeparts_SR&hash=item589ebff961

 

Tange double butted, appears to be welded, oversize headtube (I can fit modern forks). 

 

But this one is kick-ass:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/voodoo-bizango-18-frame-reynolds-853-tubes-White-Xc-Hardtail-/230966373379?pt=UK_sportsleisure_cycling_bikeparts_SR&hash=item35c6ab2c03

 

Reynolds 853 tubing, same effective top tube length as my current bike.

853 is my absolute favorite tubing...but if I have a frame made it'll be 953. Just waiting for non-boutique builders to master it as well.

953 > Ti > CF > 853 > all other steel > alum > shitty steel that shouldn't have been used

US is almost out of the question for buying a bike. I want to ride regardless of weather so the less maintenance parts (bushings, suspension), the better for the snowy season

"US"?

I was looking at the Euopean link you posted.

I have about 3,000 miles on my Giant off road. I use it solely for mountain riding. Half of which is riding on snow plowed roads and trails. Beside typical yearly maintenance I have only went through a set if tires.

Giant builds something like 80% of the worlds bikes. What they label their own is a great value new.

Oatmeal farts mmm

I was looking at the Euopean link you posted.

I have about 3,000 miles on my Giant off road. I use it solely for mountain riding. Half of which is riding on snow plowed roads and trails. Beside typical yearly maintenance I have only went through a set if tires.

My buddies pound snow 5 days a week all winter. Never had a problem.

Just an FYI.

I was looking at the Euopean link you posted.

I have about 3,000 miles on my Giant off road. I use it solely for mountain riding. Half of which is riding on snow plowed roads and trails. Beside typical yearly maintenance I have only went through a set if tires.

Giant builds something like 80% of the worlds bikes. What they label their own is a great value new.

Crazy, what is boutique brands that do then?

I was looking at the Euopean link you posted.

I have about 3,000 miles on my Giant off road. I use it solely for mountain riding. Half of which is riding on snow plowed roads and trails. Beside typical yearly maintenance I have only went through a set if tires.

My buddies pound snow 5 days a week all winter. Never had a problem.

Just an FYI.

I used to put 5k/yr and rode year round on a steelie. Frame saver and some washing and no problems.

I was looking at the Euopean link you posted.

I have about 3,000 miles on my Giant off road. I use it solely for mountain riding. Half of which is riding on snow plowed roads and trails. Beside typical yearly maintenance I have only went through a set if tires.

Giant builds something like 80% of the worlds bikes. What they label their own is a great value new.

Crazy, what is boutique brands that do then?

A bunch including about 5 in the metro. Holland cycles too, amusingly.

...wait I thought you were asking about 953.

Boutique would be hand made by artisans. Definitely a necessity for someone of my stature.

They all ride sprung bikes. I am thinking my friend rides an Intense. Maybe the trace? Can't remember.

One of the other fellas has a similar ride and the Intense Uzzi. That is for downhill really though.

My engarish was horrible there Sean, sorry about that. Must be wasted on water tonight. I was asking what brands are considered boutique brands?

I know nothing about road bikes or affordable mtn bikes.

Edited April 23, 201312 yr by dem beats

Locally: Dave Anderson, Bob Brown, Curt Goodrich, Chris Kvale, Paul Wyganowski, Vincent Dominguez, Peacock Grove, Pallas Athena

I've been contemplating a Holland out of San Diego though. A few reasons for that which are mostly emotional.

And I am an idiot: $32

http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_26500_Connects2-CT24PO01.html

For a Double Din so I am probably stuck at 7". Either way for $32 its worth it for a starting point even if I make something, lol. I had visions of using a router.

Damnit, shit like this doesn't help

Locally: Dave Anderson, Bob Brown, Curt Goodrich, Chris Kvale, Paul Wyganowski, Vincent Dominguez, Peacock Grove, Pallas Athena

I've been contemplating a Holland out of San Diego though. A few reasons for that which are mostly emotional.

Jesus. Never heard of any of them.

Yikes Sean. That video basically proves there is no better car than the chilli pepper.

For a Double Din so I am probably stuck at 7". Either way for $32 its worth it for a starting point even if I make something, lol. I had visions of using a router.

Great starting place. Worth every penny.

US is almost out of the question for buying a bike. I want to ride regardless of weather so the less maintenance parts (bushings, suspension), the better for the snowy season

"US"?

 

United States is what I meant. Too much hassle with shipping. And I kind of forgot the "steal me" look, a hardtail seems a bit less attractive for thieves  

I don't like soft tails...but I don't ride downhill either.

Uber Steel

Coors really needs to stop putting their Silver Bullet train tech on their semis.  Its April 23rd for crying out loud.  

 

Adrian???

 

I use Draftsight...because it's free.

Have to use AutoCAD due to the customized add-on's for the steel development software.