Well as this is a build dilemma thread I'll move on, I'm eyeing my 84 and a half miyata ridge runner now... possible 27" fixed gear conversion, possible 26" gravel grinder/all arounder... I don't really have an active mtb atm as my GT is wearing 2 inch slicks and rides like a dream, but I need something for mud and gravel! I've also got a nice late 90's dual suspension frame but I never ride any real technical trails.
If I did build it up as an offroader here's a short list:
Ultegra Triple (6500) crankset, 5500 BB
STX hubs laced to kinlin rims (8 speed currently, but IIRC it's an easy swap to 9 speed?)
Deore XT RD (8 or 9 speed era, not entirely sure)
Modern Deore top or bottom pull triple FD
I've got both mini v's and full v's
What I don't have is 9 speed integrated braking levers (v-brakes)
Assorted stems/bars/saddles/seatposts to match up to a good fit
If I did the FG conversion another short list:
27" fixed gear wheelset
Early 90's campy cartridge BB
Super Maxy crankset (small ring removed)
Early 90's trek 700c fork to correct geometry (fork also has clearance for the 27" wheelset)
Campy Centaur front brake (modern), other brake options are available.
Assorted stems/bars/saddles/seatposts to match up to a good fit
So what would C&V do? (for clarification, a very nice tange mtb frameset is returning to me soon, so using a nice frameset like this for a 27" conversion wouldn't be the end of my mtb's)