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12-12-08, 08:54 AM
Today I passed 2000 miles on my Downtube NS, which I've been using for a multi-mode commute (8.5 miles RT per day plus 25 minute Amtrak each way). Bike was bought in Feb 2007.
Let's just say that I am 100% happy with my DT as a commuter, and it handles my grueling 315 ft vertical hill (max 17% grade) well.
2000+ miles
236 round trip commutes
708 folds (AM train, at work, then PM train)
Parts replaced:
1 brake noodle (defective within first week, Downtube paid for replacement)
front brake assembly (broke after 1 1/2 years, from yanking out the handlebar during fold process)
3 QR bolts for upper handlebar post
1 QR bolt for seatpost
fixed QR "rivet" on folding handlebar assembly
New rear tire @1900 miles
Upgraded derailleur & shifter to SRAM X.7
Clearly the most frequent maintenance item has been the QR release bolts, which are used 3x per day. The thumbscrews would strip after about 200 folds. Luckily these are $5 parts, now I carry a spare for when the next one breaks so I'm not stranded.
Let's just say that I am 100% happy with my DT as a commuter, and it handles my grueling 315 ft vertical hill (max 17% grade) well.
2000+ miles
236 round trip commutes
708 folds (AM train, at work, then PM train)
Parts replaced:
1 brake noodle (defective within first week, Downtube paid for replacement)
front brake assembly (broke after 1 1/2 years, from yanking out the handlebar during fold process)
3 QR bolts for upper handlebar post
1 QR bolt for seatpost
fixed QR "rivet" on folding handlebar assembly
New rear tire @1900 miles
Upgraded derailleur & shifter to SRAM X.7
Clearly the most frequent maintenance item has been the QR release bolts, which are used 3x per day. The thumbscrews would strip after about 200 folds. Luckily these are $5 parts, now I carry a spare for when the next one breaks so I'm not stranded.