How to Choose a Direct Mount Rear Derailleur Road Bike

When looking for a road bicycle without a drop-out, a special piece of cast metal to hang the rear derailleur, you must look at steel-framed road bikes. Steel is a flexible metal with a quality that allows it to be bent back into shape with little to no metal fatigue. Due to this quality there is no need for a drop-out for the rear derailleur, thus making for direct mounts for the device. Aluminum, carbon fiber and titanium frames use these drop-outs, as the materials do not bend back into shape without damage and loss of metal integrity.

Instructions

    • 1

      Go to a high-end bicycle shop. When searching for direct mount road frames, the frames tend to be high-end specialty frames, usually from Italian makers. Inform the shop agent your desire to be fitted for a direct mount rear derailleur frame.

    • 2

      Get all size measurements taken for the proper size bicycle frame. Sit on several steel frame bicycles to test the sizing and fit. As a general rule look for a leg fit where you have clearance of 3/4 to 1 inch between inseam and the bicycle's top tube. When seated, look that there is a slight bend in the knee when the pedal is down and fully extended.

    • 3

      Choose your component package to go with the frame. Many Italian steel frame makers sell packages with the frame that include full Campgnolo component groups. Campy, as it is known in the bicycling community, is an Italian road bike component maker. Choose the level of components you wish on the bicycle.

    • 4

      Consider having a custom-made frame made for your exact body size if the sizes on the frames are not to your suiting or if your budget allows. A custom-made frame is an investment but guarantees you have a proper fit and a unique one-of-a-kind bicycle.

    • 5

      Make arrangements for the bicycle shop to assemble the bicycle once the frame and components arrive from the order.