This picture is from the 50 mile mark during the first real ride on my new-to-me Specialized Sequoia, circa 1985. I spent the winter refurbishing the bike and it was a fun project.

Previous thread here during the refurbishing process here:

http://www.bikeforums.net/classic-vi...oia-ideas.html

My initial thoughts are that I love the ride quality but I'm not sure about the drivetrain. The half-step plus granny is OK, but I miss the my compact double 9 speed drivetrain at times. Also, the chain would jam or skip when shifting to the granny ring under any load, and the shift was pretty slow and clunky. My previous rides on the Sequoia had been on flat ground, and this was the first test on hilly, rolling terrain. Also, my lowest gear didn't feel as low as on my compact double bike, though theoretically they're identical. We'll see if I get used to the half step plus granny, but at the moment I'm not in love with it.

On the plus side, the bike is very comfy (though the saddle and harsh tires will be replaced soon) it is zippy and well-balanced and smooth. It descends well and climbs like a champ too. The brakes worked well, too.

So long story short - awesome frame, finicky drivetrain that'll likely be changed. I've always wanted a bike in British racing green, so it might be repainted whenever she's stripped down.