Build my own bike?

[athena]

I recently found out about a drop-in bike repair place that is entirely run by volunteers. It has limited hours during the week, but sounds pretty awesome. The volunteer I talked to said they'd be able to help me build a bike from spare parts (for a very reasonable recommended donation) or could even build it for me if I tell them what I want.

I'm very interested in learning how to build it on my own, but am new to cycling. Wondering if this is a reasonable venture? I don't even have any idea how long this would take?

I'm just hoping to build up a commuting bicycle and maybe learn how to better maintain my entry level road bike. I'd be fine with a fixed gear, if that would be easier, but would prefer drop handlebars.

If this is completely unreasonable, I could probably invest a little more money in a used commuting bike. But, building my own sounds pretty awesome...

[smilingcat]

I think its a wonderful opportunity to learn how a bike goes together and along the way learn about how to maintain a bike. There are some tools you would need special to the bike like the bottom bracket wrench, chain whip, a third hand thingie for the brake calipers...

If the drop in place will let you use their tools then you'll be that much ahead. And if the volunteers help you with the assembly, that will be grand too. I'm all for it.

smilingcat