Restomod build from the frame up

[PatrickCJ8]

Hey everyone,

I have no bike building experience, but am interested in the idea of building a restomod rat rod bike based on an early postwar JC Higgins frame. I'd like to get vintage handlebars, crank, pedals etc for it but I'll probably want new wheels (with internal three speed hub), chain etc. Am I getting in over my head by just buying a frame alone? Is it easy enough to find components like bottom brackets, seat posts, handlebar stems etc that will fit the frame or should I just be looking for a complete bike?

I'd like to build a sort of tribute fighter bike - antiqued flat OD paint with a shark face on a faux tank, springer fork, weathered brown leather saddle, cream tires. I saw the Electra Tiger Shark bike last weekend, and felt inspired to build my own more "authentic" version…"built not bought", right? The bike would have the look of an old school cruiser with modern upgrades in the bearings and wheels with internal hub. I just want to make sure that if I buy the naked frame that I'll be able to find all the necessary components that are compatible. I don't want to have to scour online auctions to find random parts that will work. Thanks in advance for considering my question - like I said I'm totally new at building…

Patrick

 

[Rockit!]

I think if you were to start with a fairly complete bike, you'll come out much cheaper. Especially if you start with one that is pretty ratty. That way you don't have to buy every nut and bolt. You can always swap out what you don't want!

 

[Bicycle808]

I voted for building frame-up, but a more comprehensive vote would be that buying a complete to modify would be cheaper, but starting with a bare frame would be more fun. So, really, it depends on your priorities. Finding compatible parts will be incredibly easy. (Trying to find "correct" parts would be hard.)

 

[deorman]

Depends on what you come across, and how adept you are. Some of my favorite stuff was mostly free other than tires, cables, lube, my time, and cheap rattle paint. New stuff is fun too, though.

 

[mikeeebikey]

Buy a basket case, frame and what comes with it for free basically.
Your plan is sound, only thing I'd change is the crank. Stockers are the weak link if you're going to ride alot.