Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 12,286
Likes: 317
From: Lake Geneva, WI
Bikes: Ridley Helium SLX, Canyon Endurance SL, De Rosa Professional, Eddy Merckx Corsa Extra, Schwinn Paramount (1 painted, 1 chrome), Peugeot PX10, Serotta Nova X, Simoncini Cyclocross Special, Raleigh Roker, Pedal Force CG2 and CX2
Originally Posted by
Erwin8r
Could be very hot... Needs a different set of forks IMHO... Still, very nicely done!
Originally Posted by
spare_wheel
Hottish.
A very well-thought out and inexpensive build. The tig welds on the frame look to be high quality! It would be hot except that the lugged crown fork looks a little out of place -- kinda like a burly dude with skinny legs.
Yes the Origin 8 is cheap, cheerful and a tough workhorse.
This might be more likable: Pedal Force CX2. Yes, It's Carbon Fiber. It's a great road bike alternative, 98% of the speed but twice the utility. The larger Vittoria Hyper 700x32 tires on the CX2 allow me to enjoy the smoother trails and gravel that are common in the Midwest. I also can just ride across the pot-holed and patched suburban streets without the usual bob-and-weave that is necessary when on a smaller tire.
The added inertia of the wheelset and larger tires does slow acceleration by a small amount, the bike is a little slower to wind up. However the actual overall difference in speed on my usual route is about 2% or about 0.35 mph.
However, the ride quality is exceptional. the bike feels solid and is very responsive, but the tires provide the right amount of suppleness that is very relaxing. If I need to maximize my speed by 2%, I still have a road bike.
The bike will also take fenders and a rear rack. I expect the bike to become my
#1 ride.
__________________
When I ride my bike I feel free and happy and strong. I'm liberated from the usual nonsense of day to day life. Solid, dependable, silent, my bike is my horse, my fighter jet, my island, my friend. Together we will conquer that hill and thereafter the world.
Last edited by Barrettscv; 11-19-13 at 02:57 PM.