Originally Posted by
boe11
Hey, folks!
I just picked up a xootr swift this weekend. I've got a small car that my old Trek hybrid wouldn't fit into and aside from the rear window strap--which I wasn't a big fan of--, I didn't really have any other transport options. I started researching folders last year and the swift seemed like the best option since I really just needed something that would fit in my car that I could take on road trips and adventures. Aside from that, I commute a couple miles to work a few days a week and go on the occasional weekend excursion with friends.
I took it on its maiden voyage around Minneapolis on Saturday and did my first commute to work today. So far, I'm really enjoying it. I'm an ogre of a man at 6' and right around 300lbs. So far, the swift feels great and though I'm sure components will wear faster, it feels very robust and rigid.
I perused this thread in the days leading up to my purchase but it's so dense at this point, I thought it might be easier to just ask a couple of component questions here at the tail end. I've found a comfortable saddle height but the bars are a bit low for the more upright riding style I'm used to. In addition to that, they feel rather narrow which makes sense from a design perspective for a folding bike. Since I don't really need the size compromise, would it be possible to configure the bars for a higher and wider style? If so, what sort of aftermarket parts should I look into? I'm new to the concept of swapping components and sifting through this (and other) thread is kind of overwhelming.
I also wouldn't mind upgrading the stock saddle and have seen mention of the thuddbuster post. Is that something you gurus might recommend and could you point me in the right direction saddle-wise? It seems like this could be a classic issue of personal preference vs "best" option.
Basically, I'd like to set up the swift to be a bit more comfortable and since it'll fit in my car with ease, keeping it super compact isn't a huge concern.
Thanks for any information that you may be able to provide and happy riding!
You can get 2 inch riser handlebars that are also wider. You can also change out stem with a more vertical riser or one that is adjustable. These are standard parts that can be ordered off eBay cheap or your lbs.