Irtda Arksha build thread

[Ann87]

This frame got donated to the shop where I work and, since it's (tragically) broken, I brought it home at scrap price. I've always wanted a Slawta bike. Ultimately, I'll be getting the tube repaired... but while it's sitting around in my room I thought I'd start throwing parts on it. Just mocking up for now, since I need to replace a few things. Going with a "functional but used" build spec, keeping it cheap but lightweight where possible.

 

[RetroDavy]

This looks like a great find. I hope I'm right in thinking that the letters on the top tube have been rearranged from 'Dirt Shark'. From what I can read, Land Shark / John Slawta has a great reputation and history, and John still building, now with carbon fibre.

What's broken? Look forward to seeing what you do with it.

E.g. https://greatamericanbicycles.com/vintage-land-shark-dirt-shark-fillet-brazed/

 

[Ann87]

Ha yes it's one of the famed "dirt sharks", but I like Slawta's offbeat sense of humor when it comes to naming and labeling. One of the dt bottle bosses must have cracked and a previous owner filed it out to be a smooth round hole. Just barely visible in one of the pictures. Not the worst damage possible, but not really something you want to leave unchecked either.

 

[RetroDavy]

I can see it now you've pointed it out. Not the worst, as you say. Odd thing to do but hopefully not too hard to fix up. Anyway, lovely bike and glad I've learned something about Land Shark today. I do appreciate a bit of eccentricity. Good luck with the build!

 

[Ann87]

Update is I think this frame wants a suspension fork... the problem is that none of my forks clear the dt. I'm kind of thinking about having someone machine a shim to bring my crown race seat up about 4 mil. I know that might be kind of cheesy but this frame is already toast in a couple ways so I don't feel too bad using one or two bad ideas as "fixes". Anyone have experience doing something like this?