Joined
·
9,122 Posts
This post is one in a series of twelve posts depcting the build of my Hollowpoint MkIII. Link to MkIII / Speedhub bike build post. |
Nothing is more thrilling that mutilating a virgin frame. I've been installing full length cable runs on my bikes for a long time now, and I'm satisfied that it's worth the extra trouble. Of the two warranty departments I talked to about it (Giant with my 2001 NRS and Iron Horse for my 2003 Hollowpoint), neither had a problem with me doing this modification, and it hasn't seemed to affect resale value of the frames on eBay. The benefits are reduced friction and elimination of dirt and debris. It seems that any time a cable enters or exits a section of housing, drag is increased, and the manner in which cable saws through ferrules and cable ends over time seems to back this up. A full length run eliminates all but two of the trouble spots. My tools list: Dremel with a 9903 Carbide Cutting Bit & Flex Shaft, Chainsaw File & lots of tape. Here's what I started with. |

Lots and lots and lots of tape. This bit likes to walk, and even with a firm hand it manages to get away from a few times. Also drape a cloth over any shocks, bearings, or pivots that you want to keep metal shavings out of. This bit kicks metal filings everywhere. A dust mask is a smart idea. |

Did I mention tape? The flex shaft is a big help here. I don't know if I could manage to get the whole Dremel squeezed into this confined space. The flex shaft provides for a straight shot in. The 9903 bit has a chisled tip to help start the hole. This doesn't make it a drill bit, so care is still needed to keep the bit centered, but it removes material fast. Remember to cover your delicate surfaces with a rag or a trashbag. |

Once you've got the hole drilled, debur it with a chainsaw file. A 3/16" file is just a tiny bit shy of the 5mm you'll need to squeeze a piece of cable housing through the opening. |

Use a scrap piece of housing to ensure you've got a good fit. Try and keep the opening tight, but not so tight that it scrapes material from the housing when you pull it through. |

Finished product. |

Index of MkIII Build Posts |
---|
[TD]
MAIN: MkIII / Speedhub Build Pics
Iron Horse MkIII Naked Frame (March 2005)
Hollowpoint Speedhub Build Pictures (April 2003)
Cane Creek AD-12 Air Chamber Volume Adjustment
White Brothers 2006 Technology [/TD]
[TD] White Brothers DT 1.2 Fork Porn
Stripping Anodization
Bottom Bracket Drain Hole Drilling & Installation
Drilling Out Cable Stops (Full Length Cable Run)
Dremel Cut & Prep of Cable & Housing [/TD][TD] Hopey Steering Damper Installation
Stripping & Polishing an Aluminum Frame
Homemade Headset Removal & Installation Tools
Star Fangled Nut Removal (Drilling out the Star Nut) [/TD][/TD]
[/TR]