ENIGMA

[expjawa]

The problem with too many parts...too many options!

What you really need to do is figure out how to use all of them together. That'd be the ultimate crea-rativity!

 

[dougfisk]

Jeez.. can't you ever just be like... mediocre?

 

[fordsnake]

Sorry Doug, but mediocrity isn't on my radar

 

[fordsnake]

One of things I'm trying to figure out is how to transform the stance of the Zep? When you look at the transformation of a factory built car into a rat rod...the common denominator (outside of the patina and rust) usually is its low and stretched stance.

 

[ifitsfreeitsforme]

^^I thought "Roland" from last year (April RRB calendar bike) did a great job of that.

 

[baldwooky]

One of things I'm trying to figure out is how to transform the stance of the Zep? When you look at the transformation of a factory built car into a rat rod...the common denominator (outside of the patina and rust) usually is its low and stretched stance.

Without modifying the frame, your best option is probably using 24" wheels with fat tires instead of 26? Obviously, make sure you have enough clearance for your cranks..

 

[dougfisk]

One of things I'm trying to figure out is how to transform the stance of the Zep? When you look at the transformation of a factory built car into a rat rod...the common denominator (outside of the patina and rust) usually is its low and stretched stance.

Are you allowed a modified fork? or bolt on relocation? or a bolt-on relocation, extension, drop, of rear dropout?

 

[fordsnake]

I have an ace up my sleeve...Kota's "Rats Salt" fork! He kindly donated his fork to me for another build. This should lower it's stance significantly?

 

[expjawa]

The transformation of stance of the stock car involves lowering, chopping, and channeling in addition to the stretch. Some of those things can't be done on a bike frame (channeling, for example), but others can be. The fork is a good start if you're keeping the frame stock. You could also push the rear out and up with bolt on plates, that would help lower as well as stretch and would complement the fork.

 

[fordsnake]

That's what I'm thinking...I just need to mock it up. That's always best for the right solution.

 

[fordsnake]

I just mocked up my build using Kota's fork...unfortunately it doesn't work with the overall look of the bike. Although I love the bend of the fork, it just needs to be on a frame that complements its curve. This Zep frame has straight bar features. thus I'll need a fork that's more in line with the frame?

 

[MazdaFlyer]

I'm really liking the "Godspeed". It will be interesting to see what you create this time.

 

[MplsCoaster]

Perhaps this will do until tomorrow...I’m using a 1936 HD Snyder “Zep” frame, which has a great stance and bold features…It's been used hundreds of times before for rat builds...I think it's a perfect candidate with endless options and possibilities to work with.

Wow! Can't wait...

 

[fordsnake]

Feeling a little deflated this afternoon because of the stance of the bike. I thought I would take Kona's fork down to our co-op bike shop to find a smaller 20" wheel...but instead, I found this cool seat for $10.

 

[kingfish254]

What if you used the Kota fork, but extended the steertube on it? Sounds counterproductive, but you never know.

I think this 1938 ad has both your frame and mine in it.

 

[fordsnake]

Yeah KF, I like Hawthorne frames. Here's my 5 bar, I was considering using it for this build...but I recall you wanted to go with yours.

 

[LukeTheJoker]

Love the drop to the rear, just remember to watch the chainline...

Luke.

 

[baldwooky]

I just mocked up my build using Kota's fork...unfortunately it doesn't work with the overall look of the bike. Although I love the bend of the fork, it just needs to be on a frame that complements its curve. This Zep frame has straight bar features. thus I'll need a fork that's more in line with the frame?

Of these 3 mock up pictures, the first one with the straight bar, lowered stance is by far the coolest and meanest looking one IMO. Don't want to use short crank arms?

 

[fordsnake]

I was up most of the night thinking about what to do with the bike's stance? I waited for the sun to come up this morning and took another look at the mockup. I have conceded to this direction. Now I just need to figure out how to attach the rear wheel to the frame?

 

[dracothered]

Weld a triangle plate or another section of stays with track style drop out rotated back some.