Curse you Bruce M! You have cost me so much money this year. I bought a Downtube FS because you and now I am buying a Swift. I test rode a Xootr which helped too. I am going with a Nexus 8spd, upgraded rims and brakes and probably with Marathon tires (still deciding).

Now for a general question to all, any other things I should think about fitting on it? I thought about going with a Schlumpf in it for greater range but now I am thinking about maybe a dual front chainring and manually change the chain while have a chain tensioner in the rear. Any thoughts on this? I could have basically a dual range gear selector without a lot of money invested. Basically I need a city range and then something for when I tour and can cruise a little faster. I originally was leaning toward a Rohloff but then the hub would cost more than the bike. Plus if it got stolen I'd be pretty peeved.

Any changes for your current Swift/Xootr from current owners that you wish you had done or plan to do to yours? What gearing are you running now if you have an internal hub? I plan on using this for city commuting in Europe and about 10% touring while there. I plan on a little dirt trail riding but nothing extreme. I really wanted a set of Big Apples on it but apparently they won't fit. So I want a tire that will have relatively low rolling resistance but won't knife in too much if I ride on a dirt path. A reflective sidewall is a plus. They saved me from becoming a statistic in Berlin awhile ago. How do you not see TWO 3 watt headlights, blinking strobes and a guy in big reflective jacket? According to the driver after he almost smacked me it was the tires that caught his attention.

Anyone try a decent rack on the Swift yet? Anyone mount any lights yet? How about a Thudbuster? I am not worried about ultimate speed but more decent ride in an urban environment and still fairly efficient. Think of a GT type car rather than Formula 1 and you will understand what I mean. I want efficiency but I don't want to sacrifice too much comfort (relatively speaking). I am trying to finalize my order this weekend so any thoughts are appreciated. I can't wait to ride it. Peter has been great to work with so far.