I have been thinking of converting a mountain bicycle for road work use. The bike I have in mind is an early eighties Tom Richey.

I was hoping to install drop bars and appropriate levers, fenders and matching front and rear racks. I might even install a set of Tiagra 9 speed Brifters, derailleurs, and triple cranks.

I have never attempted this sort of conversion before. Are there any pitfalls that I should be aware of?

Here is the bike and the transmission/drive I am considering...



It is my hope to use the bicycle to ride to and from my summer cottage. The ride will always include 40 miles of pavement and one mile of loose gravel.

Anyway, any thoughts or warnings I need to think about?