Touring - Touring Mountain bike project completed (nearly)

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JustsayMo
05-30-04, 11:07 PM
First I'd like to thank those who shared their wisdom and helped to make this project possible. THANK YOU ALL! The PM's and emails were especially informantive and inspirational.

My *new* bike is a TREK 930 frame, rigid forked, drop bar, slick tired touring machine. My first rides have erased my doubts as to the viability of this project. The bike is both comfortable and feels stable loaded.

Components include Shimano D-A/Ultegra 8 speed bar end shifters & Aero Levers, XT f-derailleur & 36h hubs, STX rear derailleur & crankset.

Things I have yet to do are install fenders and perhaps a front rack. I've only used rear rack,panniers and handlebar bag in the past but would like to increase my carrying capacity.

The seatpost is nearly at max extension because I purchase a frame smaller than my usual MTB size to get a top tube length similar to my road bikes. I'm a little concerned about bending it. Does anyone have a recommendation for a very strong 300mm+ seatpost?

Also, when I began this project I started with a 1992 TREK 970 frameset but acquired the 930 later one. I like the geometry and the fact that it was a little lighter better so I switched. So if anyone is looking for a nice 16.5" TREK 970 lugged frameset w/ suntour GG headset I'd be willing to part with it inexpensively, email me at bikecamano@cs.com if you are interested in some pictures.


Chris L
05-31-04, 03:49 AM
A front rack is a worthwhile investment. I've toured exclusively with a rear rack in the past, but it becomes a pain in the butt when you're a few days between supermarkets. Last January I had to ride out of Queenstown, Tasmania with three days worth of groceries all on the back, straight up Mt Lyell. It made for some interesting moments descending the other side.

Revtor
05-31-04, 09:37 PM
Congrations on your new machine! Many good times ahead..

got any pics?
~Steve


JustsayMo
05-31-04, 09:58 PM
Many good times ahead.. got any pics?
~Steve

I'll get some pictures ASAP.

I did another ride on it today and I'm still making little tweaks. I'm enjoying riding this more than I anticipated. I guess it's *newness* is part of that. Even with panniers (not fully loaded) my average speed isn't that far off of my road bike on the same course. Hills are slower, both up and down but the level ground I can cruise right along.

I'm going to test it with more weight on longer rides this week. Thanks again!

Mo

roadfix
06-01-04, 10:24 AM
Several months ago I built up a Kona Ku mtb frame as a semi-tourer. Moustache bars, Dia-Compe 287-V levers, Ultegra bar-end shifters, Brooks sprung saddle, & semi-slicks were just a few of the components used for this project. I've pulled a Bob trailer with it but I'd like to mount some racks and try panniers on my next short weekend outing. What type/brand racks did you use?

JustsayMo
06-01-04, 01:41 PM
I'm using a TREK rear rack and I have a Blackburn front that I have yet to install. My other touring bike and tandem have Blackburn rear racks, both have worked well. I do like the looks of the Tubus racks ...

JustsayMo
06-02-04, 08:28 PM
Freshly built and ready to ride