If you started with a used bike frame as we suggest and now you’ve gotten tired of your current ride or it has seen better days, here is a great way to change your ride without buying a whole new one. You will learn how to replace a bike frame and not go crazy doing it. For someone with no experience, the process should take a couple of hours.
First of all, the right tools are important. You need bottom bracket tools, a left crank tool, a chain splitter, some wire cutters, allen wrenches, screwdrivers and some oil. A bike stand is a great tool to have but is optional.
Some of the parts should be replaced when doing this procedure. Thinks such as chain links where worn, gear cables, brake cables and cable terminators. Having the right parts is critical.
Before dismantling your existing frame, make sure everything will fit. A helpful tip is to use the same manufacturer for your new frame. This will help minimize non-fitting parts.
Here is the process of how to replace a bike frame. Both of your wheels will be taken off. Remove the mudguard (if equipped) and the rear brakes. Cut the cables on the gears and rear brake only! Remove. Now, split the chain and place on the side. Inspect it and replace if needed or clean it. Take off the derailleurs and inspect and/or clean them. Remove any accessories like bottle cages, tire pumps, etc. Take off the crank set. You will need the left crank tool and your allen wrenches. If you have a bottom bracket, use your bottom bracket tool. Clean all of the bike parts.
Next step on how to replace a bike frame is to remove the main headset bolt. There are tensioning bolts that are located on the stem. These slip off the stem, levers and handlebar. Push forks out of the bottom of the head tube as one unit. If the brake cables look frayed, replace.
The last step is to loosen the clamp on the seat to free the frame. Now is a good time to clean all the rest of the parts that will be reused.
Reverse the steps to reassemble the frame. You will need to run the new cables that you have purchased for the breaks and gears.
When replacing the chain, make sure to properly lube the chain. If any of the links are damaged or bent, replace them.