Mud Proof Steel Project - Univega vs Breezer Sky

[Johnsqual]

Hello,

I am thinking of trying to build up a steel frame into a bike that can cope well
with muddy conditions. I'm thinking of trying a Rohloff hub and will use Magura rim brakes.

My budget's a bit limited but I've found a couple of quite nice looking steel frames in my size - a Univega Alpina (not sure which model, it seems to have a mix of XT and LX at the moment) and a Breezer Sky. Any thoughts on which would work better for this?

Also, I assume that rigid front forks would be better than suspension for mud,
but is this right?

Cheers,

Johnny

 

[mikee]

Tyre clearance would be the first thing to look at

 

[Anthony]

I would obviously have a Breezer over a Univega, but not because there was any difference in their mud-friendliness, just that it's a far more desirable frame.

For mud, you really need a modern disc brake frame though.

 

[captaincosmic]

I agree with Anthony for a change the Breezer is a beautiful frame but I think the clearances are of the Californian variety

 

[minor_LEGEND]

Diamondbacks with the 73mm b/b shells have stacks of mud clearance.

A 91 or 92 would be my choice, there is an Axis pro FS on here, got my eye on it myself......

 

[chrisv40]

Univega's have huge mud clearance due to the dropped chainstays, mine runs 2.25" Schwalbe tyres with loads of room to spare.

 

[Johnsqual]

Hello all,

Thanks for the replies. Re the clearences: would it help if I used the slightly narrower tyres designed for muddy conditions?
One of my LBS's suggested 2" or even 1.9" tyres for in the mud.

I presume I could eventually add a fork with attachments for disc brakes for the front, even if it wouldn't give the most elegant appearance...

Johnny

 

[sylus]

if budget is your issue it rules out the breezer unless you found one dirt cheap

 

[cce]

Budget and rohloff in the same thread?

 

[Johnsqual]

if budget is your issue it rules out the breezer unless you found one dirt cheap

Yes, I did

The limitation is more about finding a decent steel frame near to me - I am in Belgium and they are not that easy to find here for some reason.