Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - What would you do?

I thought of this idea that could help me supe up my bike and be fun for everyone else at the same time. I have this bike that i threw together, how would YOU upgrade it. Give me your tips and favorite parts...
Okay, here is my bike: 80's Benotto 1000 frame, IRO basic wheel set, Ofmega Crank set, 42t Chainring (i don't know what kind), Dura-Ace 16t cog, some crap Specialized Tires, Modolo Q-Even Stem, Nashbar Time Trial Handlebar, Nashbar Time Trial Brake Lever, Modolo Sporting Brake Caliper, Christophe Clips, and some old no name leather saddle that probably has years of someone elses ass sweat in it, and gives me bruises on my buns.

Okay what would you do?

Looks like a great bike the way it is. Obviously, if you want to upgrade, get a new seat that doesn't hurt you. I know seats can get expensive, but they're worth it if they fit you properly. A good seat will last several thousand miles. Pretty inexpensive when you look at it that way.

why not just save up the cash and go all out on a new bike?
a nice custom track that'll fit ya perfect and all that

why not just save up the cash and go all out on a new bike?
a nice custom track that'll fit ya perfect and all that

Come on. Where is the imagination? This was supposed to be fun.

Fun!!!

if you're just bored. how about a nice new shiny (or not) coat of paint.
while you're at it, shave off all those braze ons.

and a new saddle. definetly a new saddle

saddlesaddlesaddlesaddlesaddle. saddle.

and matching bar tape.

Yes, I do need a saddle. What kind do you suggest? I was hoping for more details but, maybe I my gear nerdage is not shared by all.

yeah, i'm going to back the paint idea up. if you like the way the bike feels then re-painting it will be the best way to get the new bike/something different feel without trading the comfort you have grown to love.

Does the frame fit you well? It looks like it *may* be a little big? I dunno, everyone's different. If that's the case though, I wouldn't spend anymore money on it.

I'll say "saddle" too.

Personally I'm a fan of upgrading those things that have shown themselves to be inferior (which isn't to say that I don't occassionally splurge on something unnecessary, but not often). Clearly the saddle's in this category.

What your butt likes may not be the same as what someone else's will. Some people will tell you Brooks are the best ever. That may be true, I don't have one. I'll say that I think the classic Selle Italia Turbo is actually a really comfortable saddle. The geometry and padding are just right for me. I'm not sure if they're being made anymore but you can buy them NIB at Bike Nashbar for $22.

Sweet jesus, move that wheel back in the drop out, add another link to the chain! is your wheel even in the drop out????

Sweet jesus, move that wheel back in the drop out, add another link to the chain! is your wheel even in the drop out????You beat me to it. Maybe it's just the picture, but that looks like trouble.

Also, paint, new saddle, etc.

ditch that ass clown of a cable lock.

Do you sleep with your bike in bed? if so i would definately replace the saddle!

I concur with SBL, the frame looks big (judging by how much seatpost you have showing). OTOH, maybe you have a long torso.

Ok, another vote here for a new saddle. Personnaly, I like the feel of the Selle Italia Turbo-style of seats as well. I use one of these and find it to be very comfy: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=42319&item=7128520385&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW They say it's blue, but the one I have is black, and they don't mention in the ebay add, but it's suede, very plush. I got mine for $20 from the bargain bin @ American Cyclery.

Also, as others have said, shave those cable braze-ons. I'd also shave off the derailiur hanger. But I disagree with people who say to paint it, I like the color.

Sweet jesus, move that wheel back in the drop out, add another link to the chain! is your wheel even in the drop out????

Yeah, I know. It's in there. Luckily the drop out is pretty deep. I've been meaning to get a half link so it will be in the correct spot. If I add another full link it bottoms out.

I concur with SBL, the frame looks big (judging by how much seatpost you have showing). OTOH, maybe you have a long torso.

I've been kind of wondering about this one myself. I think the seat looks low too but, I do have a long torso and my legs are kind of short. I'm 5'10" and the frame is a 52, I should be alright. I've never actually measured the frame though, and I did buy it off ebay, so.... hmm... maybe their measurement was off?

It's hard to say but it could be a 52cm c-c. If you're 5'10" with shorter legs than torso, it may be just right for you. How's your leg extension?

If the frame is OK for your size, it say get a new saddle and seatpost. Those old style clamps are a pain and weigh a ton.