I also upgraded my Mongoose in quite a few ways - more about function than looks though. It's a great frame but some of the parts are very average to reach the price point. Biggest improvements have been (in descending order): tyres (4" Evo Addix Jumbo Jims run ghetto tubeless are surprisingly fast & nimble - tubeless makes a lot of difference to both weight and feel and I highly recommend it), leather sprung saddle from Spa cycles and Jones-style loop bars with Ergon-style grips and bar tape elsewhere, 180mm rotor on the front and new levers/calipers because the originals failed quite quickly, and metal pedals. Makes a great off-road tourer/bikepacker/explorer now with quality racks and also a lot of fun on trails and at the beach. I recommend going around and adjusting then greasing all the bearings (I like marine grease to protect ferrous parts as I use it near the sea quite a bit) as soon as you get the bike. Mine (Argus Sport 2017) had ball and cone wheel bearings and they were too dry and tight.
cool vide thanks. I have a Dolomite that a police officer gave me when I was in Nashville. I have stripped it all the way down and am doing a down to the frame resto . Your video is very inspiring thanks
I keep coming back to this video for information on upgrades. Just ordered the ALX and I’m basing anything in getting off of all of yours haha. Really interested in maybe going with PNW for pedals and grips.
The frame looks almost identical to my 2015 Vinson. Either way, great vid series. Been a help when it comes to a few thing regard my Vinson rebuild. Don’t think I’m going to have a single factory part left.
I called it! I knew it was gonna be 35 pounds! All in all that’s actually very light for a fat tire bike, and not only is it lite, it looks really really cool! Another great video Josh, and I did like the fact it was longer than usual, cause there was a lot of detail and specs featured, and I simply like longer videos, cause I’m weird like that😂 All I know is that fat bikes are growing on me now, cause before I had found then just impractical for trail use, but now that I’ve seen how much fun I’ve had with your bike already, it’s changing my perspective about fat bikes a little bit😂
Definitely longer than usual lol Glad you enjoyed it though!!! I definitely did not have a fat bike on my radar but found this and got interested in one!
Honestly stem and pedals are a HUGE upgrade for this bike!!! Glad you are enjoying yours though and also glad you enjoyed the video! My videos are not typically this long though lol
You, Wolftick Videos and Kev Central are costing me a lot of money! ;) I picked up a Mongoose Malus 2 weeks ago and just got a deal on a Mongoose Juneau yesterday, which has pretty much the same specs as the Dolomite ALX. Looks like I'll be putting the (now upgraded) Malus up for sale unless my wife decides she wants it.
This video was awesome, thanks. I just ordered a Dolomite ALX. I hope to ride it stock for a while but assume I'll decide on a suspension fork & an electric mid-drive (among other things) so this is helpful. I saw you ride the finished project yesterday. Congrats on an awesome build (in advance?). Since I haven't seen it yet I'll be on the look out for one your builds with suspension next;)
Heya, did you ever use lighter tires on the Dolomite? Just curious if you ever went further weight reduction. I'm thinking of buying one, but likely a L frame. Thanks for any updates👍
First time upgrading a cassette and I'm trying to upgrade the Dolomite Alex to the Microsoft Acolyte 12-46. Does not move far enough to shift into the 46 tooth gear. Do I need a derailleur hanger extender?
What size chainring bolts are you using? I ordered the same oval ring twice and the bolts never came 🤦🏽♂️. Ended up tossing the modification for a later time. Later has arrived 😅
@@ghost_of_righteousness Fyxation, Hydra I9 and hope make some. Be sure to get the forrect size hubs though fir the bike. 135mm QR front and 190mm QR rear.
I am so very torn personally on a air fork. It would definitely be good for it! No question there! My issue is the potential weight gain.... I will probably end up getting one eventually lol
@@chickensendies I immediately put bontrager pro aluminum pedals and 780 bars, and a 45 degree riser. I need that dropper lol. I rode it really hard in the Phoenix desert and it blew me away how good it! Can't wait to see a video on how it improves after the upgrades!
The Orig front derailleur is gone, now your using 1 oval front crank, did you lose the different speed variation?...what took over the front derailleur, since you took it off?
I see now, you went from a 2 x 7 to a 1 x 8, thus not needing a front derailleur, nice just didnt pay attention to your wording when you were converting over to the 1 by 8 speed functionality.
I enjoyed your video bud, I've had the Malus for over 3yrs now, and have changed just about everything but the bottom bracket, not sure what is best, any suggestions?? I Thank you for your time kind Sir. 🙏✌
Hey, Greg and I am glad you enjoyed the video! I did a little research on the malus and it looks like it has a very odd size botyom bracket. It is not necessarily impossible to upgrade but you would have to do some modifying to get a new bkttom bracket to work. Sorry I can not be more help than that on the bottom bracket upgrade for you.
Hey nice video, I just bought a Malus, and was interested in how you changed from a free wheel to cassette, but you don’t mention anything about a hub change?
So the Dolomite ALX comes stock with a casette and did not need the hub changed. The malus and dolomite ALX have a few differences from stock such as that. Hope that helps, Joel!
Hey oh, this is just the video I’ve been looking for. I want to do most of these upgrades with my Mongoose Juneau. This is my first time pulling apart a bike and upgrading - the only thing I’m not certain about is the cassette. Could you recommend something on Amazon and provide a link? Also, could you confirm if Dolomite and the Juneau would be the same as far as upgrades go. Thanks! Subbed and liked!
Hey, Danny! I am not 100% sure on what the stock juneau comes with since I do not own one but after a quick google it looks like it does come with a cassette so you should be able to snag any HG styled cassette and it will fit for you! Keep in mind you will need to switch the derailleur and shifter to match the new gears though if you do that. I always recommend Microshift Advent X because it has terrific range and is a great price for it all as well!
Why'd one want to go primitive and dull by swapping out their 3/2-speed front drivetrain into a basic 1-speed? I tuned my 3-speed front derailleur system myself and use it more than the rear gear system. For the crankwheel, it helps way more to have control over that than changing rear gear. Is that forgettable weight reduction really worth it?
Hey, Rick! For me personally on 1x vs 2/3x it honestly comes down to a few things. The weight savings is just a bonus to start with. I am not a fan of square tapered bb's and have had bad experiences with them so I do not keep them when they come on a stock bike. If I am going to upgrade a bb to a external bearing one I will have to change out the crankset and I prefer oval rings to round for climbs around here so a 1x is my choice of preference there because of that. In the rear I use a wide range cassette (This on is a 10 speed) that goes up to a 48t cog which will get me up any hill I climb around where I ride so that makes up for any gears I would have lost from a 2 or 3x front. I also like the simplicity and look of a 1x compared to the other. Hopefully that helps you understand better why I chose to go 1x on my bike set ups. But at the end of the day it just boils down to preference and what you like or want on your own bike. Thanks for the comment!!!!
Glad to see upgrades can be worthwhile and fun to wrench! thanks for giving it a go! ....so given the straight steer and quick release limitations any chance you could also try adding an affordable ( such as Bucklos etc ) air suspension fork? Lots of controversy regarding quality and safety, but may be a great upgrade adding trail and all year riding capabilities , IF it works ?!
Hey out of curiosity what size are the hubs on the alx? Hopeing to grab one once its in stock myself, thinking about a fork upgrade so I was curious on what the hub spacing is on the stock wheel, and im guessing its just a standard 1 1/8 tube?
The fork is 11/8 for sure as I just upgraded the headset yesterday 😁😁😁 I am not 100% sure on the hub spacing though. But, I will try to measure them when I get home from work in a bit.
When you did the headset upgrade did you have to replace the crown race. I bought a FUN ZS44/30 for the bottom headset and the crown race in the upgrade looks smaller than what is on the fork now.
Yep, I sure did. You can put the new bearing on the old crown race before installation and see how it fits though. Sometimes they fit the new sealed bearing and you do not have to swap them. But, I do swap them because I have them.
@@chickensendies well I just subbed to your channel. Now I’m looking forward to how this turns out and how you like it. But it’s on my list of bikes to buy for the winter.
Nice break down video. I'm pleasantly surprised to see it has a sealed cartridge bottom bracket. I was expecting spindle and cage bearings at this price point of a bike. Sealed cartridge is heavier but maintenance free. I'm assuming it has cage bearings in the head set or are those sealed as well? Did you get into the hubs any or have to adjust them?
Headset is not sealed sadly but that is a pretty cheap swap if you want to! I was definitely surprised to see a sealed bb HAHAHAHA I have not had to do any hub adjustments and they seem great overall!
How hard would it be to go tubeless on it? They seem to do this on most fat bikes I have seen. Didn’t know if there was a reason it wouldn’t work. If it can it would save a good bit of weight.
So, this is something I have debated on trying but just have not yet. It may be a little stubborn since the rims are not "tubeless ready" but I am sure it would work!
Nice man. Got inspired by the story around Zebulon pike, whose name is on the pike fork. Now they gave the zeb fork his name again. Couldn't resist and in the process of putting a Grey one on the reactor 😂🤙
@@chickensendies ya. Should be good for my 230 pounds I hope. But that fat bike is a real steal man. I directly had to look it up, but they don't sell them in Europe
Hey you found it! HAHAHAHAHA I will put this here as well just incase but I would say it really is up to you. If you have a pretty hilly area I would go with the 32 because it would make climbs a little easier. If you are more flat ground I would say 30 to get a slightly higher top speed!
This one is a 44mm top and bottom. I also did another video where I upgraded the fork to a tapered carbon specialized fork that used a FSA headset. Hope that helps!
Got the bike and spent a couple of nights on the stage one. Q: 1. Did you bleed Zoom brakes after install? 2. How did you deal with long brakes cables? Mine looks like a bowl of spaghetti now :(
So, I ended up cutting and bleeding them in the end. They are definitely something special to bleed and I had to do some rigging to get it to work properly. That is primarily why I did not put that part in this video. If I do something I would not recommend I do not include it. I am sure there is a actual zoom (bucklos) bleed kit somewhere though for these brakes. I have a shimano one from Amazon and was able to get it to work but as I mentioned it definitely was not the correct way to do it.... Sorry for such a long of an answer but hopefully that makes sense to you!
Hey man. Love the videos. My Dolomite has replaced my Trek 9er...It's so fun to ride. One question; It appears that you've replaced the cassette on your bike. What did you replace it with? And did you do a video? Thanks for all the videos.
Appreciate it Andrew!!! I go over it in this video actually HAHAHAHA But, I upgraded to a Microshift Advent X drive train. I think it is a great set up for the price 😁😁😁
Still waiting :) Question: Why did you pick Microshift Advent X set over Shimano Deore M4100? Price is the same or 4100 can be had for a few $$ less. Any particular reason?
Only specific reason is I wanted to try the advent x as I've heard some really good things about it HAHAHAHA Hopefully you will get yours here soon!!!! Has it been shipped?
Yep. Delivery scheduled 05/07. I will probably do upgrades in two stages. First is stem/handlebars, Zoom bakes and pedals and then drivetrain if I like bike enough to shell another $200 :)
@@wayneC7 so with the casette you would have to change the shifter at least and most liky the chain as well due to length needed to go up the wider casette. The original shifter also does not have ten shifts so it would not work with the casette since it is a 10 speed casette. Hopefully that makes sense 😁😁😁
I do not see any reason why not. The biggest question would be if your personal inseam would allow you to use it. But I do not know if they make a 200mm external dropper since this bike does not have have internal routing.
Wow you saved tonnes of weight by taking off the 300kg rear detainers at 2:40 🤪 Neat video, I’m looking to buy a dolomite, maybe use the cheap equipment for the rusty winter, good stuff for spring to fall
I just got this bike a couple of weeks ago. I am going to ride it mostly for exercise and to run errands. I am concerned about the quick release on the wheels. Do you have a recommendation to change the axle to bolts or lock bolts?
Hey, Debra James and glad you decided to get this bike! It is terrific for the price. The QR should give you no issues as long as it is set up correct. That been said you can switch it to a bolt on with a kit it dies A. Require quite a bit of work to switch it from a QR and B. Tbe dolomites rear hub is bigger than the typical 135mm hub so I am not 100% sure where you could buy the correct size. Sorry I can not help you more than that but the QR is great and should give you no issues 😁😁😁
@@chickensendies Thank you for responding. I've done some research since I wrote my inquiry to you. I think I will go with either the Pinhead Locking Skewers if the rear skewer on the Dolomite ALX is shorter than 168mm. If it's not, I will get the Locking Wheel Nuts.
@@chickensendies The rear quick release skewer measured about 235mm from below the quick release head to the end of the skewer. So the Pinhead Skewer Locks are out of consideration. The Pinhead Locking Wheel Nuts seem the way to go. I now just need to go to a local home improvement store to figure out the thread size at the end of the skewer. The locks come in 3/8", 9mm and 10mm.
For the price of them I would say no and they were not worth it. But it did make it lighter and that was the goal! HAHAHAHA If you have the extra cash and want it lighter I would say go for it though!!!!!
Question about your new headset: I’ve tried pretty much everything with the stock ALX headset and it’s still giving me problems. I’ve totally rebuilt it and lubed it with high quality grease and made several adjustments. It’s either too loose or it’s too tight and simply haven’t been able to find a good point of adjustment. Is your new headset pretty much a drop in part? And please let me know what size you ordered from Amazon. Thank you!
@@jmarine1933 thanks for the info... I read other replies and saw it in his other video. I went ahead and ordered it. Now the next question is, other than replacing wheelset, what can be done to the one that comes with it? Just grease it?
@@BenjaminParrilla I’ve got about 500 miles on my ALX so far and haven’t had any issues with the wheelsets. Those bearings should be sealed units. I actually ended up keeping the original headset. I pulled it apart, cleaned everything, and lubed it up Slide Glide which is gun grease. It’s perfect now and until it starts giving me issues I’ll keep using it.
You would be able to but would have to purchase 2 new rings since the stock ones are riveted together. You would not be able to separate them to bolt them on the new cranks sadly.
@@chickensendies the crank on the left side of the bike got totally shaved due to improper way of adjusting the pedal . I tried several times putting back the pedal , but no chance. Do you recommend if I should just purchase 175 crank arm ??
@@chickensendies should have when you had it apart! The single and double crown eBay/AliExpress forks are 2.2-3.0kg or 4.85-6.61lbs. This allows you to weigh (pun intended) the options of staying solid forks vs suspension forks.
@@chickensendies thanks much, since you are my dolomite hero. I'm going 1x9 11-42 32 front. Full advent x, do you think I'll need a medium or long derailure? And as always thank you.👏🏾
Lookin good brother. One suggestion is to weigh parts under 2 lbs using ounces. This is America, we dont use kilograms!!!! Everyone knows 16 ounces is a pound and 32 is 2 lbs. Sorry, just a pet peeve that i need to tell the Wolftick guys also.
@@chickensendies that's where AliExpress comes in! I got a set of 4 piston MT420 knock offs with improvements for $50. For the record, I also have a set of MT420s on a 27.5. Got the $50 knock off set to put on a future Dolomite ALX build. Grabbing it at a lower price point or before the brakes become OOS.
@@chickensendies That was a good video man. One tip (not bike related) from audio nerd. When you do the bike cave makeover, get some acoustic foam panels (from amazon around 50 dollars for 50pcs) and stick them on empty parts of the walls. At the start of the video, you can hear this echo, of course you get used to it. That bike looks totaly different now....maybe some red decals next? Cant wait for the ride video!
@@fracturedrider I was hoping someone would comment on the sound because I was torn over it!!!! You the man, Fractured!!! Glad you liked the video though!!!!
I enjoyed you video but i didnt actually see you change any parts only weight them so I learnt nothing but hay i watched the video and im off to watch the other one so you must be doing something right ✌🏻💯👍🏻
I appreciate you watching! This was getting a little long on time, so I had to cut out some of the "how to's" to shorten it. Looking at it over time I should have done shorter videos showing more but I got excited and put all the parts on 😅😅😅
I just ordered one :) I hope medium fits me, I am 5'7". Couple of upgrade questions: 1. How did you fit brake caliper to 180mm from disk, did you use an adapter? 2. If for start I go REALLY budget 1X8 using stock derailleur and a chain - would 8 speed cassette 11X42 work with the stock Microshift rear derailleur? Something like this: www.amazon.com/Cassette-11-42T-Mountain-Bicycle-Shimano/dp/B07MSGHY11/ref=sr_1_4?crid=FNDXQADUFY04&dchild=1&keywords=8+speed+cassette+11-42&qid=1619798138&sprefix=8+speed+casette%2Caps%2C175&sr=8-4 Thanks
So the bikes stock brake rotor is 180mm up front so you are good there and need no adapter! You'd definitely be stretching the stock microshift with a 11x42 but that does not mean it would not work. I am 5' 10" and the medium feels perfect to me!!!
I also upgraded my Mongoose in quite a few ways - more about function than looks though. It's a great frame but some of the parts are very average to reach the price point. Biggest improvements have been (in descending order): tyres (4" Evo Addix Jumbo Jims run ghetto tubeless are surprisingly fast & nimble - tubeless makes a lot of difference to both weight and feel and I highly recommend it), leather sprung saddle from Spa cycles and Jones-style loop bars with Ergon-style grips and bar tape elsewhere, 180mm rotor on the front and new levers/calipers because the originals failed quite quickly, and metal pedals. Makes a great off-road tourer/bikepacker/explorer now with quality racks and also a lot of fun on trails and at the beach. I recommend going around and adjusting then greasing all the bearings (I like marine grease to protect ferrous parts as I use it near the sea quite a bit) as soon as you get the bike. Mine (Argus Sport 2017) had ball and cone wheel bearings and they were too dry and tight.
dont stop the videos bro they're pretty good.
Really appreciate that, Laquell York! I am not planning on stopping anytimesoon! As long as others are enjoying my content I'll keep on making it! 😁😁😁
cool vide thanks. I have a Dolomite that a police officer gave me when I was in Nashville. I have stripped it all the way down and am doing a down to the frame resto . Your video is very inspiring thanks
Awesome and I am glad you enjoyed the video, Eric! I hope you have a blast working on your Dolomite!!!
I keep coming back to this video for information on upgrades. Just ordered the ALX and I’m basing anything in getting off of all of yours haha. Really interested in maybe going with PNW for pedals and grips.
Glad you are finding it helpful!!! I am a HUGE fan of PNW!!!! Definitely recommend them! 😁😁😁
bikes have become a serious hobby for me. And yep I love the park tool stuff
Can't go wrong with parktool if you have the money for it!
they make reducer sleeves to go from schrader to presta. running presta's in schrader drilled rims can result in failures at the valve stem.
Good to know and appreciate the heads up!!!!
The frame looks almost identical to my 2015 Vinson.
Either way, great vid series. Been a help when it comes to a few thing regard my Vinson rebuild. Don’t think I’m going to have a single factory part left.
Glad you enjoyed the videos and they helped! 😁😁😁
Sweet video man hopefully others with the same bike get inspired to build theirs up as well. 🤘🏼
Thanks, KJR!!! I'm hoping others will too!!! Very cool project bike!
Wow, great video. I just purchased and am waiting on a Mongoose Argus Trail. I can't wait to ride it and start some modifications.
Appreciate it, Mike! The bike is legit a blast to ride and work on!
Excellent tutorial video! Thanks for sharing.
Glad you found it useful and thank you!!!!
I called it! I knew it was gonna be 35 pounds! All in all that’s actually very light for a fat tire bike, and not only is it lite, it looks really really cool! Another great video Josh, and I did like the fact it was longer than usual, cause there was a lot of detail and specs featured, and I simply like longer videos, cause I’m weird like that😂
All I know is that fat bikes are growing on me now, cause before I had found then just impractical for trail use, but now that I’ve seen how much fun I’ve had with your bike already, it’s changing my perspective about fat bikes a little bit😂
Definitely longer than usual lol Glad you enjoyed it though!!! I definitely did not have a fat bike on my radar but found this and got interested in one!
Great video man. I just got one of these last week. It’s a great bike, I’ve just done stem and pedals so far.
Honestly stem and pedals are a HUGE upgrade for this bike!!! Glad you are enjoying yours though and also glad you enjoyed the video! My videos are not typically this long though lol
@@chickensendies did you post a link for all the upgrades that you used? Drivetrain and dropper will be in the future.
@@gabrielmarshall9038 Yep! Check the description and it should have the majority of all I did! 😁😁😁
You, Wolftick Videos and Kev Central are costing me a lot of money! ;) I picked up a Mongoose Malus 2 weeks ago and just got a deal on a Mongoose Juneau yesterday, which has pretty much the same specs as the Dolomite ALX. Looks like I'll be putting the (now upgraded) Malus up for sale unless my wife decides she wants it.
Great video, do you have video howto replace and upgrade freehub on mongoose ALX? My freehub spinning both direction 😜
@@hungDaoism glad you enjoyed it! I sadly do not since this is stock with a HG styled hub.
This video was awesome, thanks. I just ordered a Dolomite ALX. I hope to ride it stock for a while but assume I'll decide on a suspension fork & an electric mid-drive (among other things) so this is helpful.
I saw you ride the finished project yesterday. Congrats on an awesome build (in advance?). Since I haven't seen it yet I'll be on the look out for one your builds with suspension next;)
Thanks, Michael and I appreciate it!!!! Hope you find one of my suspension builds and enjoy it! HAHAHAHAHA
After a couple of months, I finally decided to subscribe. Hope your channel grows.
Bike looks sweet! Great job on saving a little weight also..
Appreciate it, George!!! Rides great and is still going strong!!!
Another great video and fat bike looks good. Stay blessed.
Really appreciate that, Eric and you as well!
Heya, did you ever use lighter tires on the Dolomite? Just curious if you ever went further weight reduction. I'm thinking of buying one, but likely a L frame.
Thanks for any updates👍
The lightest I went were Wolftrax and they are terrific still. Very fun and capable fat bike 😁
First time upgrading a cassette and I'm trying to upgrade the Dolomite Alex to the Microsoft Acolyte 12-46. Does not move far enough to shift into the 46 tooth gear. Do I need a derailleur hanger extender?
Great video
Thans, Oliver! Glad you enjoyed it!
Very nice. Love it
Thanks man! So stoked on how it turned out!!!
That bike looks great! New sub from Mexico, keep it up
Appreciate it!!! The bike is definitely turning out way better then expected!!!
What size chainring bolts are you using? I ordered the same oval ring twice and the bolts never came 🤦🏽♂️. Ended up tossing the modification for a later time. Later has arrived 😅
You should be able to just get some generic ones off Amazon and be good!
Appreciate the video. Good work
Thanks, Will!!!! Glad you enjoyed it!!!
Good stuff man. Love upgrading 🤘🏻
For sure! Always so fun working on bikes! Now to get this beast back on the trails!
Thanks for the video. I didn't see the cassette you changed to in your links above... do you have that?
I love your bike i been looking for one just like yours and cant find one love your video
Are there any "LOUD HUBS" for the
Mongoose dolomite alx 😳????????
I have found a few but the bad part is they are not cheap......
@@ghost_of_righteousness Fyxation, Hydra I9 and hope make some. Be sure to get the forrect size hubs though fir the bike. 135mm QR front and 190mm QR rear.
@@chickensendies thx bro
@@chickensendies thank you
2nd time watching the video good job 👍🏻✌🏻💯
Really appreciate that, Doug! 😁😁😁
I just bought the dolomite alx a month or so ago. Appreciate this video! What's your thoughts on an air fork ?
I am so very torn personally on a air fork. It would definitely be good for it! No question there! My issue is the potential weight gain.... I will probably end up getting one eventually lol
@@chickensendies I immediately put bontrager pro aluminum pedals and 780 bars, and a 45 degree riser. I need that dropper lol. I rode it really hard in the Phoenix desert and it blew me away how good it! Can't wait to see a video on how it improves after the upgrades!
what type of chain do we use and what size and which gears, and which is the one that changes the gears.
The Orig front derailleur is gone, now your using 1 oval front crank, did you lose the different speed variation?...what took over the front derailleur, since you took it off?
I see now, you went from a 2 x 7 to a 1 x 8, thus not needing a front derailleur, nice just didnt pay attention to your wording when you were converting over to the 1 by 8 speed functionality.
I enjoyed your video bud, I've had the Malus for over 3yrs now, and have changed just about everything but the bottom bracket, not sure what is best, any suggestions??
I Thank you for your time kind Sir. 🙏✌
Hey, Greg and I am glad you enjoyed the video! I did a little research on the malus and it looks like it has a very odd size botyom bracket. It is not necessarily impossible to upgrade but you would have to do some modifying to get a new bkttom bracket to work. Sorry I can not be more help than that on the bottom bracket upgrade for you.
awesome video man, the dolomite looks super sick. now time for some forks 👀
Glad you liked it man! Ive actually been eyeing some potential forks for it! 😁😁😁
@@chickensendies that will definitely take the dolomite to the next level
@@M3garage1 It definitely would!
Hey nice video, I just bought a Malus, and was interested in how you changed from a free wheel to cassette, but you don’t mention anything about a hub change?
So the Dolomite ALX comes stock with a casette and did not need the hub changed. The malus and dolomite ALX have a few differences from stock such as that. Hope that helps, Joel!
Hey oh, this is just the video I’ve been looking for. I want to do most of these upgrades with my Mongoose Juneau. This is my first time pulling apart a bike and upgrading - the only thing I’m not certain about is the cassette. Could you recommend something on Amazon and provide a link? Also, could you confirm if Dolomite and the Juneau would be the same as far as upgrades go. Thanks!
Subbed and liked!
Hey, Danny! I am not 100% sure on what the stock juneau comes with since I do not own one but after a quick google it looks like it does come with a cassette so you should be able to snag any HG styled cassette and it will fit for you! Keep in mind you will need to switch the derailleur and shifter to match the new gears though if you do that. I always recommend Microshift Advent X because it has terrific range and is a great price for it all as well!
Why'd one want to go primitive and dull by swapping out their 3/2-speed front drivetrain into a basic 1-speed? I tuned my 3-speed front derailleur system myself and use it more than the rear gear system. For the crankwheel, it helps way more to have control over that than changing rear gear. Is that forgettable weight reduction really worth it?
Hey, Rick! For me personally on 1x vs 2/3x it honestly comes down to a few things. The weight savings is just a bonus to start with. I am not a fan of square tapered bb's and have had bad experiences with them so I do not keep them when they come on a stock bike. If I am going to upgrade a bb to a external bearing one I will have to change out the crankset and I prefer oval rings to round for climbs around here so a 1x is my choice of preference there because of that. In the rear I use a wide range cassette (This on is a 10 speed) that goes up to a 48t cog which will get me up any hill I climb around where I ride so that makes up for any gears I would have lost from a 2 or 3x front. I also like the simplicity and look of a 1x compared to the other. Hopefully that helps you understand better why I chose to go 1x on my bike set ups. But at the end of the day it just boils down to preference and what you like or want on your own bike. Thanks for the comment!!!!
Glad to see upgrades can be worthwhile and fun to wrench! thanks for giving it a go! ....so given the straight steer and quick release limitations any chance you could also try adding an affordable ( such as Bucklos etc ) air suspension fork? Lots of controversy regarding quality and safety, but may be a great upgrade adding trail and all year riding capabilities , IF it works ?!
Hey out of curiosity what size are the hubs on the alx? Hopeing to grab one once its in stock myself, thinking about a fork upgrade so I was curious on what the hub spacing is on the stock wheel, and im guessing its just a standard 1 1/8 tube?
The fork is 11/8 for sure as I just upgraded the headset yesterday 😁😁😁 I am not 100% sure on the hub spacing though. But, I will try to measure them when I get home from work in a bit.
When you did the headset upgrade did you have to replace the crown race. I bought a FUN ZS44/30 for the bottom headset and the crown race in the upgrade looks smaller than what is on the fork now.
Yep, I sure did. You can put the new bearing on the old crown race before installation and see how it fits though. Sometimes they fit the new sealed bearing and you do not have to swap them. But, I do swap them because I have them.
Thank like 👍🏽
Appreciate it and thank you!!!
Nice upgrades but I would also add air forks along with if possible some springe shocks for a better smoother ride.
I've actually since this video upgraded to a carbon rigid fork and it rides great!!! Upgrades are still holding up great!!!
Looks like it would make a good donor for a TSDZ2 elec conversion
I've had a few people say to make it a electric lol
@@chickensendies you think it would be a good bike to try a conversion on?
@@davidc5735 Ive never done it so I can not give you a honest opinion. Sorry!
Do you have a link where you purchased your shorter handlebar? Thanks
So these were some extra bars I had around that I got from a complete so I do not have that unfortunately. Sorry, Mindof!
and now i see this video.... as if i didnt have expensive hobbies already lol..... looks great for the price of this thing.
Hahahaha I definitely had a blast upgrading this beast! Ive got a few more tidbits to put on as well!
@@chickensendies well I just subbed to your channel. Now I’m looking forward to how this turns out and how you like it. But it’s on my list of bikes to buy for the winter.
@@jgarcia1925 I think it is gonna be awesome when everything is said and done. Really appreciate the sub!!!
Nice break down video. I'm pleasantly surprised to see it has a sealed cartridge bottom bracket. I was expecting spindle and cage bearings at this price point of a bike. Sealed cartridge is heavier but maintenance free. I'm assuming it has cage bearings in the head set or are those sealed as well? Did you get into the hubs any or have to adjust them?
Headset is not sealed sadly but that is a pretty cheap swap if you want to! I was definitely surprised to see a sealed bb HAHAHAHA I have not had to do any hub adjustments and they seem great overall!
New to the bicycle world, is the ALX worth the extra over the normal dolomite or there a better entry one?
In my opinion the ALX is definitely worth the extra price if you can afford it!
Thanks for the quick reply, I’m excited to get it in
@@armandomartineziii6460 I'm excited for you! Let me know what you think when you get it! 😁😁😁
Parts list? Sorry if it is somewhere I didn’t see but please that would be cool
The parts are actually listed with Amazon links in the description of the video. Hope that helps!
How hard would it be to go tubeless on it? They seem to do this on most fat bikes I have seen. Didn’t know if there was a reason it wouldn’t work. If it can it would save a good bit of weight.
So, this is something I have debated on trying but just have not yet. It may be a little stubborn since the rims are not "tubeless ready" but I am sure it would work!
What cassette and Derailleur did u use?
For this build I went with Advent X
Did you throw away the handle bars I'll buy them really like the handle bars
Hey, Stephan! I actually keep my spare parts for different builds or friends bikes. Hope you enjoyed the video!
Nice man. Got inspired by the story around Zebulon pike, whose name is on the pike fork. Now they gave the zeb fork his name again. Couldn't resist and in the process of putting a Grey one on the reactor 😂🤙
Very cool, Sprousa!!!! Bet the reactor will just shred harder!!!! HAHAHAHA
@@chickensendies ya. Should be good for my 230 pounds I hope. But that fat bike is a real steal man. I directly had to look it up, but they don't sell them in Europe
@@sprousaTM Ahhhh bummer man!
What kind of cassettes are they?
Question: Should I go with 30T chainring or 32T? This is going to be my late fall/winter bike
Hey you found it! HAHAHAHAHA I will put this here as well just incase but I would say it really is up to you. If you have a pretty hilly area I would go with the 32 because it would make climbs a little easier. If you are more flat ground I would say 30 to get a slightly higher top speed!
@@chickensendiesuhmmm. pretty sure it's the other away around.
@@gatorback HAHAHAHA Oof... Scratch what I said. Definitely said that backwards
Im um... Planning ddoing a 3by swap.. lol. starting with the steel frame.. its got prettier rims.
There you go!!! 😁😁😁
Can you please verify what size Jessica headset you ordered from Amazon? Thank you
This one is a 44mm top and bottom. I also did another video where I upgraded the fork to a tapered carbon specialized fork that used a FSA headset. Hope that helps!
@@chickensendies Thank you
@@jmarine1933 Of course!
@J Marine Hey!!!! It is a 44mm top and bottom!!!! I wanted to double check after I said that, and I remembered wrong!
@J Marine I changed the original response to 44mm as well for less confusion 😅😅😅
Got the bike and spent a couple of nights on the stage one.
Q: 1. Did you bleed Zoom brakes after install?
2. How did you deal with long brakes cables? Mine looks like a bowl of spaghetti now :(
So, I ended up cutting and bleeding them in the end. They are definitely something special to bleed and I had to do some rigging to get it to work properly. That is primarily why I did not put that part in this video. If I do something I would not recommend I do not include it. I am sure there is a actual zoom (bucklos) bleed kit somewhere though for these brakes. I have a shimano one from Amazon and was able to get it to work but as I mentioned it definitely was not the correct way to do it.... Sorry for such a long of an answer but hopefully that makes sense to you!
Hey man. Love the videos. My Dolomite has replaced my Trek 9er...It's so fun to ride. One question; It appears that you've replaced the cassette on your bike. What did you replace it with? And did you do a video? Thanks for all the videos.
Appreciate it Andrew!!! I go over it in this video actually HAHAHAHA But, I upgraded to a Microshift Advent X drive train. I think it is a great set up for the price 😁😁😁
@@chickensendies I guess I totally missed that. Sorry. Thanks for the quick response. Excited to upgrade even more.
@Andrew Campbell All good!!! This is definitely a longer video than I usually do with quite a bit of info so easy to miss stuff.
Still waiting :)
Question: Why did you pick Microshift Advent X set over Shimano Deore M4100? Price is the same or 4100 can be had for a few $$ less.
Any particular reason?
Only specific reason is I wanted to try the advent x as I've heard some really good things about it HAHAHAHA Hopefully you will get yours here soon!!!! Has it been shipped?
Yep. Delivery scheduled 05/07. I will probably do upgrades in two stages. First is stem/handlebars, Zoom bakes and pedals and then drivetrain if I like bike enough to shell another $200 :)
@@BorKagan777 There you go!!! Definitely a solid plan!
Rookie here... do you have a link to the new cassette, and can I only change the cassette like you did and keep everything else stock?
@@wayneC7 so with the casette you would have to change the shifter at least and most liky the chain as well due to length needed to go up the wider casette. The original shifter also does not have ten shifts so it would not work with the casette since it is a 10 speed casette. Hopefully that makes sense 😁😁😁
Can a oval sprocket cause you to stretch out your chain if your running a set speed on your bike comparing to a bike with different speeds.
Not necessarily. All a oval does is change the way your cadence and power works when you are pedaling. Basically makes your pedals more efficient 😁😁😁
That looks sick! I love the red and silver look. I also started making youtube videos now.👌
AWESOME man!!! I'll check them out!!!
What size chainring did you go with?
I went with a 32 oval for mine
@@chickensendies Awesome, thank you
@@2ndGenJoe Anytime 😁
Can you fit a 200mm dropper on a small frame?
I do not see any reason why not. The biggest question would be if your personal inseam would allow you to use it. But I do not know if they make a 200mm external dropper since this bike does not have have internal routing.
@@chickensendies how tall are you? The seat tube is 18" for medium and 17" for small. I'm 5'7".
@@airhogglider I am 5'10" with a 32". I went with a medium frame and it fits me perfect.
What is the stock headset size? 34mm?
Wow you saved tonnes of weight by taking off the 300kg rear detainers at 2:40 🤪
Neat video, I’m looking to buy a dolomite, maybe use the cheap equipment for the rusty winter, good stuff for spring to fall
Would Sram 12 speed cassette fit to the hub? I have Sram SX 1x12 drivetrain laying around
YEP! You should have no issue with making that work since it is a hg hub!
Good question... I yave GX cassete i would like to try...
I just got this bike a couple of weeks ago. I am going to ride it mostly for exercise and to run errands. I am concerned about the quick release on the wheels. Do you have a recommendation to change the axle to bolts or lock bolts?
Hey, Debra James and glad you decided to get this bike! It is terrific for the price. The QR should give you no issues as long as it is set up correct. That been said you can switch it to a bolt on with a kit it dies A. Require quite a bit of work to switch it from a QR and B. Tbe dolomites rear hub is bigger than the typical 135mm hub so I am not 100% sure where you could buy the correct size. Sorry I can not help you more than that but the QR is great and should give you no issues 😁😁😁
@@chickensendies Thank you for responding. I've done some research since I wrote my inquiry to you. I think I will go with either the Pinhead Locking Skewers if the rear skewer on the Dolomite ALX is shorter than 168mm. If it's not, I will get the Locking Wheel Nuts.
@@debrajames6467 Of course and keep me posted on what you decide to do! I am interested now HAHAHAHA
@@chickensendies The rear quick release skewer measured about 235mm from below the quick release head to the end of the skewer. So the Pinhead Skewer Locks are out of consideration. The Pinhead Locking Wheel Nuts seem the way to go. I now just need to go to a local home improvement store to figure out the thread size at the end of the skewer. The locks come in 3/8", 9mm and 10mm.
@@debrajames6467 one of the downfalls of fat bikes. Everything is bigger lol I am sure Home Depot will have something 😁
Did the lighter tubes make any difference?
For the price of them I would say no and they were not worth it. But it did make it lighter and that was the goal! HAHAHAHA If you have the extra cash and want it lighter I would say go for it though!!!!!
Where did you get the name Chicken Sendies from ?
There is actually a story behind it that I'll have to share in a video some day lol
Question about your new headset: I’ve tried pretty much everything with the stock ALX headset and it’s still giving me problems. I’ve totally rebuilt it and lubed it with high quality grease and made several adjustments. It’s either too loose or it’s too tight and simply haven’t been able to find a good point of adjustment. Is your new headset pretty much a drop in part? And please let me know what size you ordered from Amazon. Thank you!
Your reply didn’t come through on my end.
I'd like to know the right size of the headset to order as well 🤔.
@@BenjaminParrilla 44mm for the Dolomite ALX
@@jmarine1933 thanks for the info... I read other replies and saw it in his other video. I went ahead and ordered it. Now the next question is, other than replacing wheelset, what can be done to the one that comes with it? Just grease it?
@@BenjaminParrilla I’ve got about 500 miles on my ALX so far and haven’t had any issues with the wheelsets. Those bearings should be sealed units. I actually ended up keeping the original headset. I pulled it apart, cleaned everything, and lubed it up Slide Glide which is gun grease. It’s perfect now and until it starts giving me issues I’ll keep using it.
Can i continue using the 2 by , and put the Wbestexercises Crank Arm on it ???
You would be able to but would have to purchase 2 new rings since the stock ones are riveted together. You would not be able to separate them to bolt them on the new cranks sadly.
@@chickensendies Ok then I will purchase the single ring the red one , what size is it ?
@@tassono7041 Im running a 30 tooth oval on mine but you can choose which ever size and style you'd like.
@@chickensendies the crank on the left side of the bike got totally shaved due to improper way of adjusting the pedal . I tried several times putting back the pedal , but no chance. Do you recommend if I should just purchase 175 crank arm ??
@@tassono7041 I went 170mm my self but that would be preference for you as well.
How much does the fork weigh?
I've never actually weighed the stock fork so that is actually a really good question!
@@chickensendies should have when you had it apart! The single and double crown eBay/AliExpress forks are 2.2-3.0kg or 4.85-6.61lbs.
This allows you to weigh (pun intended) the options of staying solid forks vs suspension forks.
@@airhogglider Definitely should have weighed it but since I was not upgrading it I did not even think about it lol
@@chickensendies I just got one. I'll make a video
@@airhogglider Good deal!!!
What chainstay guard are you using? Thanks
It is actually a black one from a 3 pack on Amazon. I believe it was $10 for all 3. I'll try and find a link real quick!
Here you go!!! 😁😁😁
www.amazon.com/Mantain-Protective-Protector-Bicycle-Cycling/dp/B07QZH4Y3P
@@chickensendies thanks much, since you are my dolomite hero. I'm going 1x9 11-42 32 front. Full advent x, do you think I'll need a medium or long derailure? And as always thank you.👏🏾
@@bullpaqqy I'd go long just to be safe personally! Anything else feel free to reach out! 😁😁😁
@@chickensendies thank you again brother, be safe and have a wonderful weekend.
Do the stock wheels allow you to go tubeless?
I've personally not tried to but have seen a video of someone attempting it and was not successful sadly....
@@chickensendies thx...
Lookin good brother. One suggestion is to weigh parts under 2 lbs using ounces. This is America, we dont use kilograms!!!! Everyone knows 16 ounces is a pound and 32 is 2 lbs. Sorry, just a pet peeve that i need to tell the Wolftick guys also.
Appreciate it man and totally get it!!!
@@chickensendies I don't like using the term "this is America" but when talking about pounds/kilograms or miles/kilometers I think its ok. 😅⚓👍
@@TheCaptainsCog HAHAHAHA All good brother!!! Glad you liked the video Cap!
@@chickensendies I watched every second.
@@TheCaptainsCog Awesome man! Definitely did not expect to make it almost 30 minutes lol
How much does it wiegh after upgrades
Hey, Eugene! I do not remember off the top of my head but it is in the video towards the end 😁😁😁
Just watched real quick 35.32 lbs
re covid i remember when the simano mt200s were 60 buccks now they are 100 dollars
No lie there! Crazy how prices have been changed due to demand.... But, that is how it goes.
@@chickensendies that's where AliExpress comes in! I got a set of 4 piston MT420 knock offs with improvements for $50. For the record, I also have a set of MT420s on a 27.5.
Got the $50 knock off set to put on a future Dolomite ALX build. Grabbing it at a lower price point or before the brakes become OOS.
0:02 sec in... clicked like button because I notice the video length :D will back at the comments after 29:15 min :D
HAHAHAHA yea..... A little longer than usual 😅😅😅
@@chickensendies That was a good video man. One tip (not bike related) from audio nerd. When you do the bike cave makeover, get some acoustic foam panels (from amazon around 50 dollars for 50pcs) and stick them on empty parts of the walls. At the start of the video, you can hear this echo, of course you get used to it. That bike looks totaly different now....maybe some red decals next? Cant wait for the ride video!
@@fracturedrider I was hoping someone would comment on the sound because I was torn over it!!!! You the man, Fractured!!! Glad you liked the video though!!!!
@@chickensendiesI like build videos that don't leave you hanging 😂
@@fracturedrider I definitely tried to not do that..... But it resulted in a 30 minute long video HAHAHAHA
Almost to 600 subs let’s gooo!!!!
SO CLOSE! HAHAHAHA
I enjoyed you video but i didnt actually see you change any parts only weight them so I learnt nothing but hay i watched the video and im off to watch the other one so you must be doing something right ✌🏻💯👍🏻
I appreciate you watching! This was getting a little long on time, so I had to cut out some of the "how to's" to shorten it. Looking at it over time I should have done shorter videos showing more but I got excited and put all the parts on 😅😅😅
Junk components. 👎🏾👎🏾👎🏾🙄
@ellerybice3787 been holding up great for 3 years now 😁
I just ordered one :) I hope medium fits me, I am 5'7".
Couple of upgrade questions:
1. How did you fit brake caliper to 180mm from disk, did you use an adapter?
2. If for start I go REALLY budget 1X8 using stock derailleur and a chain - would 8 speed cassette 11X42 work with the stock Microshift rear derailleur?
Something like this:
www.amazon.com/Cassette-11-42T-Mountain-Bicycle-Shimano/dp/B07MSGHY11/ref=sr_1_4?crid=FNDXQADUFY04&dchild=1&keywords=8+speed+cassette+11-42&qid=1619798138&sprefix=8+speed+casette%2Caps%2C175&sr=8-4
Thanks
So the bikes stock brake rotor is 180mm up front so you are good there and need no adapter! You'd definitely be stretching the stock microshift with a 11x42 but that does not mean it would not work. I am 5' 10" and the medium feels perfect to me!!!
On another note if you got a "goatlink" basically a derailleur lengthener you should be fine with the stock microshift and the 11x42.
Link for that extender! www.amazon.com/Zsling-Derailleur-Extender-Flywheel-Aluminum/dp/B087P5BSVC
does the dolomite come with a cassett or freewheel? Did you change the wheel so it would be cassett?
It is casette and I am actually still on the stock wheelset with no issues. Just went on a ride today actually 😁😁😁