If you want to salvage that build and have a bike that "shines" there are a few things to keep in mind...
1. Keep it simple. You can't go wrong that way.
2. Keep it "pro". I mean pro assembly. The cable housing is WAAAAY too long and could be routed better. Keep the housing as short as possible without affecting performance.
3. Every bike has a "mannequin fit". Basically, this means that every frame was designed to be ridden by a rider of a certain proportions. If you are too far away from the "ideal" rider and try to make the bike fit you will end up with a bike that handles funny AND looks a bit off.
The things that are off about your bike...
That fork. You have a simple frame with an overly complex fork. Installing a standard telescoping fork (RockShox Judy or Marzocchi Bomber would be my choice) would go a long way to making the bike look right.
If you can't get a frame that fits better then do something that makes this fits better. Your saddle is pointed down A LOT and that stem is too long. I've spent a lot of years fitting people to bicycles and your set up tells me that you're not comfortable. First, that saddle is a torture device. Just because it's made by a reputable brand does not mean it's a comfortable saddle. If you're trying to keep the "pro" look replace it with a Flite. That saddle has a lot more flex in the shell than yours. Also, level it and lower the seatpost by 1-3cm at least. It will keep you from sliding forward and putting a lot of pressure on your hands, too. Slide the saddle back (and ideally get a seatpost with setback to it). Overall, this will keep your leg extension about the same, but will make you more comfortable and make the bike look better. Don't forget to install a shorter stem to compensate for the reach difference.
That crank... do you REALLY need a chainring that size? Could you get close to that ratio with a different cassette or are you already running an 11t on there? Also, if you really don't want to run a double or a triple (which you may want to consider) you'll need a chain guide. I would recommend another chainring or two, though, and a front derailleur.
Details... same color headset spacers, for example. I have the same problem with my bike right now. Don't get too crazy with colors, unless they are accents and can all match. Otherwise, just stick with silver or black. Headset would ideally match the seat collar in color. Stem and seatpost match in color. You get the picture.
In general, think "accents" not "statement" when you pick parts. You can't have each component make a statement on its own, but if they are done right they accent the bike just enough that it can make a powerful statement as a complete machine.
Accessories... get rid of that pump and the fenders. If you need a pump switch to a CO2 in a seat pouch or have a hydration pack. As for the fenders... if you need one, have a clip-on that's easily removable. Keep it near the bike, not on the bike. You'll be happier with it in the long run.
Pedals... consider clipless?
Hopefully this helps and you end up with a bike that you actually like and want to ride! I think it's better to try all of this rather than just getting rid of the thing.
dyna-ti":2x7bd7l5 said:
I've been thinking this for a while ,but i dont know if im cut out for cycling these days,after spending some £7-800 building my current [and only] bike,it seems that the build is wrong ,and what im coming up with is not shiny and exciting but dull and confused
I can't afford to keep spending this amount of money in this financial climate,as my outgoings are increasing exponentially
Bloody shame really as i've always wanted a ti frame and CK wheelset
But as my dear old dad always says in these situations
"you've got to cut your cloth accordingly'
All this coupled with the lack of actual cycling that i do [prob' about once a month]makes me think i'd be better selling everything that i've bought these last few months,and leave it either till time or money are more plentiful
If i sell and at this stage im not entirely sure ,i'd prefer to sell complete but stripped for parts will recoup more of my money, quicker
