Originally Posted by
captbixley
I really didn't appreciate what I had - but now I agree that I should retain the touring character of down tube bars. Would it make sense to install an adapter tube and an angled (17 degree) stem so that the down tube bars would be up and back some. I feel comfortable riding more up right but then my fingertips just reach the top of the handle bar. Sometimes my hands are on the hoods, but rarely down on the bottoms.
What about moving the shifters to the handle bars? Friction shifters? Index shifters - does than mean a new derailleur?
Thanks again for all the input.
I recently acquired the same year Miyata 1000 as yours captbixley with original components and you indeed have one of the best touring bikes ever produced. I have owned a Specialized Expedition which is often considered a close match to the Miyata that I built up from the frame for 20 years. I have no complaints with the Expedition but after the third ride on the Miyata I find I am falling in love with it. The ride is so stable and comfortable and even with front and rear racks mounted on it the ride is surprisingly peppy and reminds me much of how a much lighter Trek 500 that I used to own rode.
I am glad to see you are leaning toward keeping yours with the original drop bar look. Mine has a tall stem and I think it is the height of the bars that really make it feel so good. I think I will also look at moving the shifting to the bars.
Good luck with what changes you wind up making and I'm glad you are getting back up on that beauty. Welcome to the forum! There is also a Yahoo user group specific to Miyata/Specialized bikes. It hasn't been too active lately but there are some excellent photo albums that may give you some inspiration.